Best lakes around Penthaz, a municipality in the canton of Vaud, Switzerland, offers access to significant natural water bodies. While Penthaz itself has a minor portion of rivers or lakes, the surrounding Vaud canton features prominent lakes. These include Lake Geneva, one of Western Europe's largest lakes, and Lac de Joux, the largest lake in the Jura region. The area provides diverse natural landscapes and opportunities for outdoor activities.
Last updated: April 30, 2026
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A small idyll on the very edge of Lausanne: the Louis Bourget Park. It is named after a doctor, naturalist and ornithologist who, during his lifetime from 1856 to 1913, campaigned for this spot to be declared a nature reserve.
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The foundations of this church, an example of Romanesque art in Vaud, date from before the year 1000. Of the old Romanesque building, only the apses with semi-dome, the choir, the vaulted transept and a crossing surmounted by a square bell tower remain. The interior is extremely sober, although the colourful decoration softens the severity. The building has been used for Protestant worship since the 16th century.
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Saint-Sulpice is a district in the west of Lausanne. Saint-Sulpice is also home to the Église Saint-Sulpice, a beautiful church dating back to the 12th century. This church is one of the oldest buildings in Lausanne and has a rich history. Saint-Sulpice is also known for its beautiful views of Lake Geneva and the Alps. From some places in the district you can enjoy a breathtaking panorama. This makes Saint-Sulpice a popular place for hikers and nature lovers.
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The Louis Bouget Park is located on the western edge of the municipality. The Chamberonne River forms the border with the municipalities of Ecublens and St-Sulpice, where the University of Lausanne and the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology are located. The park offers the only natural beach on Lake Geneva in the Lausanne area. This park, which has more than a kilometre of lakefront and is therefore also suitable for swimming, has two faces: from October to March, you can take solitary walks in an environment shaped by water and wind. From April to September, the lawns are taken over by families and students from sunrise until late at night. https://www.lausanne-tourisme.ch/de/entdecken/park-louis-bourget/
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The castle is open every day. I recommend a visit.
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Fantastic view of the lake.
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Two static Swarowski telescopes are available at no charge to observe the birdlife.
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While Penthaz itself has a minor portion of rivers or lakes, the canton of Vaud is home to significant bodies of water. The most prominent are Lake Geneva (Lac Léman), one of Western Europe's largest lakes, and Lac de Joux, the largest lake in the Jura region. Both offer diverse natural landscapes and opportunities for outdoor activities.
Yes, several spots around Lake Geneva are great for families. For example, Louis Bourget Park Beach offers a natural beach for swimming and lawns for relaxation. The Swimming Spot at Parc du Bourget is also ideal for a refreshing dip. Bird Island (Île aux Oiseaux) is a unique artificial island that serves as a refuge for migratory birds, offering an educational and peaceful experience for all ages.
The Saint-Sulpice Church and Lake Geneva View offers a breathtaking panorama of Lake Geneva and the Alps. Another excellent spot is the Morges Promenade and Marina, which provides fantastic views of the lake and features a castle.
Yes, Lake Geneva offers several swimming opportunities. The Louis Bourget Park Beach is known as the only natural beach on Lake Geneva in the Lausanne area. Additionally, the Swimming Spot at Parc du Bourget provides a pleasant area for a refreshing swim after a walk.
Along the shores of Lake Geneva, you can visit the Saint-Sulpice Church, one of Lausanne's oldest buildings dating back to the 12th century. The Morges Promenade and Marina also features a castle on Lake Geneva, which is open for visits.
Absolutely. Bird Island (Île aux Oiseaux) is an artificial island specifically designed as a refuge for migratory and nesting birds, making it a perfect site for ornithologists. It even has free-to-use telescopes for observation.
You can find various cycling routes in the region. For instance, the 'Lac de Joux – Col du Mollendruz loop' is a challenging route that takes you around Lac de Joux. You can explore more options in the Cycling around Penthaz guide.
Yes, there are gravel biking opportunities. Routes like the 'Gravel circuit in the Jorat nature discovery park' offer a moderate challenge. For more gravel biking adventures, check out the Gravel biking around Penthaz guide.
Several running loops are accessible from Penthaz and nearby areas, offering moderate difficulty. You can find detailed running trails in the Running Trails around Penthaz guide.
Lac de Joux is the largest lake in the Jura region, surrounded by mountains and alpine forests. It's an idyllic setting for outdoor activities like swimming, sailing, and windsurfing. A popular cycling route allows visitors to circle the lake, enjoying its beautiful beaches and swimming spots.
Visitors appreciate the diverse experiences, from the stunning views of Lake Geneva and the Alps, especially from places like Saint-Sulpice Church, to the peaceful natural settings for bird watching at Bird Island. The natural beaches and promenades, such as Louis Bourget Park Beach and Morges Promenade, are also highly valued for relaxation and scenic walks.
While Lake Geneva can be popular, exploring areas further from major towns or visiting during off-peak seasons can offer a more tranquil experience. Lac de Joux, though popular for activities, might offer quieter spots along its shores compared to the bustling areas of Lake Geneva.


Still not found your perfect lake around Penthaz? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.