Few regions in Europe offer such a diversity of landscapes around one lake. From vineyard strolls to summit scrambles, hiking around Lac Léman is not only accessible but unforgettable. Whether you’re based in Geneva, Lausanne, Montreux, or Évian, adventure is always just a short ride away.
Lavaux Vineyard Terraces Trail (UNESCO)
Walk through Switzerland’s most iconic vineyard landscape — the Lavaux Vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The trail winds from Lutry to Saint-Saphorin, offering sweeping views over Lake Geneva and the French Alps, as well as opportunities to stop at local wine cellars.
🕒 Duration: 2–4 hours
🥾 Level: Easy to moderate
📍 Start point: Lutry, Cully, or Grandvaux
Rochers-de-Naye via Dent de Jaman
A classic alpine hike from Montreux to the summit of Rochers-de-Naye (2,042 m), passing Dent de Jaman along the way. The route offers dramatic cliffs, wildlife, and unbeatable panoramic views across Lake Geneva and the Alps.
🕒 Duration: 4–6 hours
🥾 Level: Moderate to challenging
📍 Start point: Caux or Les Avants
Sentier du Léman (Swiss Lakeside Trail)
For a flatter and more leisurely option, hike segments of the Sentier du Léman, a long-distance path that follows the Swiss shore of Lake Geneva. Sections between Nyon, Morges, and Lausanne are particularly scenic, passing beaches, cafés, and parks.
🕒 Duration: Flexible
🥾 Level: Very easy
📍 Recommended segment: Morges to Saint-Prex.
Mont Pèlerin Trail
Located above Vevey, this forested climb leads to a tower viewpoint offering a bird’s-eye view of Lavaux, the Alps, and Lake Geneva. A relatively short but rewarding hike with opportunities to extend the route.
🕒 Duration: 2–3 hours
🥾 Level: Moderate
📍 Start point: Chardonne (funicular)
Grammont Peak (Valais, Swiss-French Border)
This is for the seasoned hiker. Grammont (2,172 m) rises high above the lake and offers a quiet, wild experience with one of the highest lookouts over Lake Geneva. Start from Taney near Vouvry and prepare for a big climb.
🕒 Duration: 5–7 hours
🥾 Level: Challenging
📍 Start point: Parking du Flon / Lac de Taney
Évian to Meillerie (French side)
This beautiful coastal trail on the French shore of Lake Geneva offers Mediterranean-style cliffs, wildflowers, and lake breezes. Accessible via train or ferry, it’s ideal for a half-day hike with plenty of swimming spots along the way.
🕒 Duration: 2–3 hours
🥾 Level: Easy to moderate
📍 Start point: Évian-les-Bains
Tips for Hiking Around Lake Geneva
🚆 Access: Most hikes are reachable by public transport — use SBB (Switzerland) or SNCF TER (France).
🧭 Season: Best from April to October. Mountain trails may have snow until June.
🍷 Local stops: Many hikes pass wineries, cheese farms, or historic villages — take your time!
🧢 Gear up: Good walking shoes, water, sun protection, and a light jacket are recommended.
