Planning a trip to Geneva and craving some fresh air, nature, and postcard-worthy views? Well, you’re in the right place. Geneva may be known for chocolate and diplomacy… but it also happens to be surrounded by stunning lakes, mountains, waterfalls, and vineyard trails.
Whether you’re a casual walker or someone who loves a steep climb, there’s something for every pace and mood.
Here are some of the best hikes in and around Geneva!
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Best hikes near Geneva – Top 10
1. Mont Salève
This one’s a classic. Nicknamed the “balcony of Geneva”, Mont Salève offers epic views over the city, Lake Geneva, and even Mont Blanc on a clear day. It’s a steep but rewarding climb. Not feeling the hike up? You can take the cable car and walk around at the top instead.
⏱ 3 hrs | 👣 9.3 km loop | 🥾 Challenging | | 📍 30 mins from Geneva
2. Rhône Riverbank Walk
No need to leave the city for this one. Stroll along the Rhône starting from Quai du Mont-Blanc. You’ll pass the Jet d’Eau, parks, and some iconic buildings like the UN HQ and Palais Wilson. Great for sightseeing + walking in one go.
⏱ 2 hrs | 👣 8 km out & back | 🥾 Easy | | 📍 Starts in Geneva
3. Cascade du Dard (Chamonix)
A short but steep trail to a dramatic waterfall in the Chamonix area. It’s a bit of a workout, but totally worth it. There’s even a little café near the falls for a snack break.
⏱ 2 hrs | 👣 4.5 km loop | 🥾 Hard | | 📍 1 hr 10 mins from Geneva
4. Petit Salève
Like its bigger sibling, Petit Salève is close to the city and still offers amazing views. It’s a great option if you want a good leg-stretch but don’t have time for a full day hike.
⏱ 2.5 hrs | 👣 6.6 km loop | 🥾 Moderate | | 📍 25 mins from Geneva
5. Lavaux Vineyards
This UNESCO-listed wine trail takes you through Swiss vineyards with dreamy views of Lake Geneva.
Our tip: bring some cash, there are self-serve wine stands along the way.
⏱ 3.5 hrs | 👣️ 11.3 km point-to-point | 🥾 Moderate | 📍 50 mins from Geneva
6. Promenade du Lac Léman
A gentle walk along the lake with stops like the Flower Clock, English Garden, and Jet d’Eau.
⏱ 40 mins | 👣 3.4 km | 🥾 Easy | 📍 Starts in Geneva
7. Cascade d’Angon (Lake Annecy)
One of the coolest parts? You get to walk behind the waterfall! Add in forest paths and lake views, and you’ve got a short adventure with big rewards.
⏱ 2 hrs | 👣 4.2 km loop | 🥾 Moderate | | 📍 1 hr from Geneva
8. Geneva Bridges Loop
This urban trail loops around several of Geneva’s bridges and rivers. A highlight is the Pointe de la Jonction where two rivers meet in totally different colors.
⏱ 3 hrs | 👣 12.1 km loop | 🥾 Moderate | 📍 Starts in Geneva
9. Crêt de la Neige (Jura Mountains)
The highest point in the Jura Mountains, this one’s for the more experienced hiker. The views of Mont Blanc from the top? Unmatched. Also remember to bring snacks, there’s no café here.
⏱ 3 hrs | 👣 10 km loop | 🥾 Hard | 📍 40 mins from Geneva
10. Divonne Lake Loop
A peaceful walk around a beautiful lake, perfect if you just want some nature without the sweat.
⏱ 40 mins | 👣 3 km loop | 🥾 Easy | | 📍 20 mins from Geneva
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Hiking near Geneva: FAQs
What’s the best hike near Geneva for epic views?
Mont Salève is known as the “balcony of Geneva” with views of the city, lake, and Mont Blanc. Hike up or take the cable car, then explore the trails at the top.
Can I hike in Geneva without leaving the city?
Yes! The Rhône Riverbank Walk starts at Quai du Mont-Blanc and takes you past parks, landmarks, and the Jet d’Eau on an 8 km easy route.
Is there a good waterfall hike near Geneva?
Cascade du Dard in Chamonix offers a short, steep climb to a dramatic waterfall with a small café nearby. It’s about 1 hour 10 minutes from Geneva.
What’s a short but scenic hike near Geneva?
Petit Salève is a 6.6 km moderate hike with beautiful views, just 25 minutes from Geneva—perfect if you’re short on time.
Can I hike through vineyards near Geneva?
Yes, the Lavaux Vineyards trail is a 3.5-hour walk through UNESCO-listed vineyards with lake views and self-serve wine stands.
Where can I take a gentle lakeside walk in Geneva?
The Promenade du Lac Léman is a 40-minute lakeside walk with stops like the Flower Clock, English Garden, and Jet d’Eau.
Is there a hike where I can walk behind a waterfall?
Cascade d’Angon near Lake Annecy lets you walk behind the falls on a 4.2 km loop with forest and lake views.
Is there a scenic city loop in Geneva?
The Geneva Bridges Loop is a 12.1 km route linking the city’s bridges and rivers, with a highlight at Pointe de la Jonction.
What’s the highest hike near Geneva?
Crêt de la Neige in the Jura Mountains is a 10 km challenging hike with Mont Blanc views, about 40 minutes from Geneva.
Is there an easy nature walk near Geneva?
The Divonne Lake Loop is a flat 3 km walk taking 40 minutes, just 20 minutes from Geneva.
🛎️ Where to stay in Geneva
If you’re heading out for these hikes, you’ll want a comfy and central spot to crash. How about the MEININGER Hotel Genève Centre Charmilles? It’s budget-friendly, close to public transport, and ideal for families, solo adventurers, couples, and groups of friends.
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Address: 118 rue de Lyon, 1203 Geneva, Switzerland
