Large lakes with supervised beaches
Lake Annecy and its beaches
Lake Annecy, renowned for the purity of its waters, offers several beaches with facilities and lifeguards in summer. In Annecy-le-Vieux, Albigny beach attracts families with its large lawn and designated swimming area. In Saint-Jorioz, the supervised beach has a gently sloping area suitable for children and a pleasant setting facing the mountains. Further south, Doussard offers a quieter atmosphere with a well-equipped beach and water sports such as paddleboarding and canoeing.
The beaches of Lake Leman/Geneva between Évian and Thonon
The French coastline of Lake Geneva has several well-equipped beaches. In Thonon-les-Bains, the supervised municipal beach has specially adapted pools and a large green area. In Évian-les-Bains, the central beach offers direct access to the lake and secure facilities. Less well known but very popular, the beaches of Saint-Disdille (in Châtel-sur-Léman) and Corzent (in Anthy-sur-Léman) offer peaceful settings with lifeguards during the summer season.
Where can you swim in rivers in Haute-Savoie?
Swimming in the Giffre in Morillon and Samoëns
The Giffre, a mountain river, offers several popular swimming areas. In Morillon, the Lac Bleu leisure centre offers supervised swimming in a natural environment, with a sandy beach and shaded lawns. Upstream, there are occasional access points to the river, but swimming outside the centre should be done with caution.
The natural pools of the Dranses
In the heart of the Chablais region, the Dranse forms several refreshing natural pools, particularly between Bioge and its mouth at Lake Geneva. Although swimming is not supervised along the entire length of the river, certain areas are regularly visited in summer, such as the Pont de la Douceur bridge and the banks upstream from Thonon-les-Bains.
The Dranse Delta Nature Reserve, accessible via marked trails, is a great place to take a break by the water. However, swimming is subject to strict conservation rules, so it is best to check locally before venturing out.
Lakes and family leisure centres
The Lac Bleu in Morillon
Close to the village, this lake welcomes holidaymakers in a safe environment. The sandy beach is supervised in July and August, and there are several facilities (play areas, trails, equipment hire) to complete the offer. It is a very family-friendly site.
The Combloux biotope lake
This ecological basin is naturally filtered, without chemical treatment. Open for swimming in summer, it offers a well-maintained setting with a solarium, lawns and panoramic views of the Alps. The water is generally warmer than in other mountain lakes. Find out more
Passy Lake Leisure Centre facing Mont Blanc
In the Mont Blanc valley, Lake Passy is home to a well-known leisure centre. The sandy beach is supervised in July and August. Holidaymakers can also enjoy water sports, a trail around the lake and exceptional views of the surrounding peaks. Access is easy for families thanks to car parks and picnic areas.
The Ilettes lakes in Sallanches
At the entrance to the Arve Valley, the three Ilettes lakes welcome visitors. The second lake is equipped for swimming, with lifeguards in high season, a grassy beach and toilets. The site is quiet and accessible, with breathtaking views of Mont Blanc.
Where to camp near swimming spots in Haute-Savoie
Go camping around Lake Annecy
The campsites in Sévrier, Saint-Jorioz and Doussard offer easy access to the supervised beaches of Lake Annecy. Some are located less than a 10-minute walk from the swimming areas. See all campsites near Lake Annecy, including the La Chapelle Sainte-Claude*** campsite, which has direct access to the lake beach.
Campsites in the shores of Lake Geneva
Évian-les-Bains, Thonon and the towns of Chablais offer a wide range of campsites close to the shores of Lake Geneva. Swimming is possible within walking distance of some establishments. See all campsites near Lake Geneva.
In the Mont Blanc valley
In Passy, several campsites are within walking distance of the beaches of Lake Passy. This is an ideal option for those who want to alternate between swimming and hiking. We particularly recommend the Les Îles*** campsite, located 150 metres from the lake.
Practical tips for safe swimming
To make the most of Haute-Savoie's natural sites, choose areas supervised by lifeguards. Check the signs for water quality, weather conditions and specific rules for each location.
Swimming in rivers can be dangerous outside designated areas due to currents, unstable riverbeds and low temperatures. Follow local recommendations and don't hesitate to ask the tourist offices for advice.
Finally, respect the environment: do not leave any rubbish behind, avoid fragile riverbanks and keep your pets on a leash when required. These simple gestures will enable everyone to enjoy these exceptional sites for years to come.