Short Escape from Geneva

Pictures cannot do justice to the most beautiful region of Switzerland — the one surrounding Lac Léman, or Lake Geneva. This leisurely cycling tour takes you from fresh water to flat lands, from the foot of the mountains through the vineyards of La Côte, and into medieval villages. From the seat of your bike, you’ll see it all!

The heart of Geneva is, of course, the lake. The pretty Swiss architecture provides a mid-ground backdrop, and the regal mountains simply elevate the majesty of this sophisticated city. But don’t let the towering height of the mountains scare you! You’ll be riding on less-challenging terrain, at a leisurely pace you’ll determine on your own.

Starts any day Monday through Friday, April through October.

Day 1: Geneva to Yvoire or Anthy-sur-Léman (46 km or 29 miles)

From the chic city to the countryside, with Lac Leman on your left, you will pass through many pretty villages (Founex, Bossey, Céligny and Signy) towards Rolle. Sample true “Swiss” cuisine; with many cafes surrounding the lake; you’ll have an abundance of options to enjoy local flavors. Why not try fish, since it’s in fresh supply from the lake? In the afternoon, you will roll onto the ferry at “Rolle” and enjoy 360-degree views of the scenery surrounding Lake Geneva. Once across the lake, ride to your destination near the village of Anthy.

Day 2: Loop day around Yvoire or Anthy (Two options: 50 km/33 miles or 88 km/55 miles)

Today can be spent as you choose, whether you prefer hopping on and off your bike or relaxing by the pool at your hotel. If you ride through the “Lower Chablais” valley of the Rhône-Alpes, you'll get a glimpse of both “Swiss” and “French” life in one sweep. We highly recommend venturing into the charming medieval village of Yvoire, one of France's "most beautiful villages", with 700 years of history under its belt. The flowers are simply divine, and you’ll find other other-worldly attractions like the Labyrinth Garden of Five Senses, art galleries, and more! From here, you can cruise through beautiful bays facing the Jura Moutains (Port de Séchex and Port de Sciez).

Meander through the windy streams before sweeping back through Mâcheron and Fessy (and make sure you sneak a peek at the magnificent Château d'Avully)! Finally, you’ll roll over gentle hills, through forests, and past Brens, Ballaison and Chevilly before entering the village of Anthy-sur-Léman nestled in between the mountains.

Day 3: Anthy-sur-Léman or Yvoire - Geneva (37 km or 23 miles)

From Anthy to Sciez, take time to stop just 2km from the centre of the town at ‘Notre Dame de Chavannex’, a church that’s been standing strong since 1390. The charming Chateau de Sciez (Chateau de Coudrée) is worth visiting for magnificent views. Fancy another relaxing chateau visit? Go for a wine tasting in the ancient cellar of the Chateau la Tour de Marignan! While in Sciez, be sure to ride onto the “Pavillon Bleu” in the port. There, you can relax at the beach and enjoy the solitude of the surrounding forest. Your escapade through peaceful Haute Savoie doesn’t end there. The winding roads will take you through Massongy, Ballaison, Loisin and Veigy-Foncenex, to the two-letter village of Gy; each is full of character and natural beauty. From here, the shore-side ride to Geneva will go by very quickly.

Please note that rates are given as a guideline; based on Euro vs. US$ exchange rate as of 12/10/14.