COOLCATIONING IN 2024? BEAT THE HEAT IN LAUSANNE, A TEMPERATE EUROPEAN BEACH BREAK

COOLCATIONING IN 2024? BEAT THE HEAT IN LAUSANNE, A TEMPERATE EUROPEAN BEACH BREAK

With record-breaking heatwaves in 2023 leading to sweltering temperatures across popular holiday destinations such as Cyprus, Greece, Spain and Italy, many Brits are searching for more temperate climes for their summer holidays this year. 

‘Coolcationing’, one of the top travel trends for 2024, has lead to UK holidaymakers searching for destinations with more moderate weather - and with searches for ‘Switzerland summer holidays’ up 750% in the UK in the last five months (Google Trends), Switzerland looks to be a favourite for tourists wanting to beat the heat this summer.  

Avoiding the Mediterranean’s literal hotspots needn’t mean forgoing a beach break, however, as the newest beach destination for UK travellers is located on the shores of Lake Geneva – the picturesque city of Lausanne. 

With 100 sun-kissed beaches, this Swiss city is an unexpected beach break gem, with average high temperatures around 24°C in June, and 25°C in July and August. The city, sitting gracefully by the largest freshwater lake in Western Europe – Lake Geneva (or known locally as Lac Léman) – enjoys sandy shores, crystal clear waters, and a plethora of aquatic activities.

Warm enough for a leisurely swim even in the Spring and Autumn months, Lake Geneva reaches an enticing 25°C in the summer, inviting both the casual bather and the ardent watersports enthusiast.

Lausanne is also known globally as the Olympic Capital for being home to the International Olympic Committee, and offers a vast range of sporting activities both on and off the water. From wild swimming in the vast expanses of Lake Geneva to exhilarating water sports, from serene cruises to sunbathing on its numerous beaches, Lausanne promises an adventure that is far from the mundane.

Highlights Include:

Vidy Beach: Lausanne’s pride, Vidy is the largest beach on Lake Geneva. With over 500 metres of sun-kissed sand and tranquil coves, it is a retreat for the soul.

Ouchy Beach: Situated in the historic Ouchy Old Port, this beach is open all year round, offering a stunning 2,000 m2 bathing area.

Bellerive-Plage Swimming Pool: Perfect for those who yearn for sandy shores but the certainty of a pool swim. This beachside wonder has three expansive pools (one Olympic-sized), a myriad of sports facilities, and a restaurant for when hunger strikes after an intense volley match.

Watersports: From wakeboarding and waterskiing to serene paddleboarding sessions, Lake Geneva’s watersports offerings cater to all tastes and competencies.

Plateforme 10: For those who like to infuse their beach breaks with a touch of culture, the recently opened Plateforme 10 – Switzerland's biggest arts venue, awaits.

Lavaux Trail Wine Hike: As one of the world's eminent wine capitals, Lausanne promises an unparalleled wine tasting experience. The UNESCO-listed Lavaux Vineyard Terraces beckon with history and scenic beauty. Traverse the 32km Lavaux trail, or opt for a shorter but equally captivating walk from Grandvaux to Lutry.

Lausanne is a fusion of Switzerland’s love for nature and its commitment to offering world-class experiences. Dive into the unexpected beach retreat this year – because Lausanne is ready to make a splash!

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Editors notes

Capital of the Canton of Vaud and 4th largest city in Switzerland, Lausanne shines through in its dynamism and openness, as well as its sporting, cultural and food offering.

Lausanne Tourisme acts as a point of call for the city at the national and international level, by inviting travellers to discover the charm of the city of Lausanne.