Geneva is perhaps best known for its importance as home to many international organizations, including the Red Cross, many United Nations agencies, and of course, many important financial groups. One nearby secret is Lake Geneva – a stunning crescent-shaped body of water that is in fact one of Europe’s largest inland bodies of water. Here, you’ll find numerous dive sites and some truly spectacular geologic features as well as some fascinating aquatic life. Are you ready to log some dives that are truly off the beaten path? Let’s take a closer look.
An International Treasure
Lake Geneva goes by a number of different names. For instance, the small portion of the lake which occupies French territory is called Lac Leman or Lac de Geneve; its German name is Genfersee or Genfer See, and Italians typically refer to it as Lago Lemano or Lago di Ginevra. No matter what you call it though, this lake has a fascinating history and offers some truly breathtaking views, both above and below its surface.
With a length of 73 kilometers, and at 14 kilometers across at its widest point, Lake Geneva covers an astounding 580.3 square kilometer surface area. Its average depth is 154.4 meters, and its maximum depth is 310 meters. Don’t let these statistics frighten you though; dive sites at Lake Geneva average 20 meters deep, though there are a few sites where technical divers can achieve depths well beyond 40 meters.
One of the best dive sites Lake Geneva has to offer is the Hirondelle Wreck, which is also known as the wreck of the Swallow. Strictly for tech divers, this wreck lies with her stern at a depth of 43 meters, and with her elaborate bow at a depth of 67 meters. Though there is not much to see in terms of aquatic life, the wreck and its history are wonderfully compelling. Built as a passenger cruiser in 1855, the Hirondelle struck a rock and sank on June 10th of 1862. As the water is quite cold, the wreck is in excellent condition, with many deck fittings, chains, and other features completely intact. Though visibility can be poor, a trip to this ghostly wreck is always worthwhile – it’s a definite must for any dedicated technical diver visiting Switzerland.
In all, there are over twenty named dive sites at Lake Geneva. Whether you want to go to Chillon’s Castle (Chateau de Chillon) where you can dive along ancient castle walls, or if you want to visit one of the many other sites available, you’ll find that doing so is easiest with the help of one of the Geneva region’s friendly dive operators. As diving is popular here, there are a few to choose from.
As you explore, watch for fish in the warmer shallows, and keep an eye out for shy crayfish hiding among the rocks. Last, but certainly not least, keep in mind that Lake Geneva is located at an altitude of 372 meters above sea level, so all dives here are altitude dives. Lake Geneva is chilly year-round, and a drysuit is definitely recommended in the event you plan to visit the Hirondelle wreck or another deep site. Despite the need for precautions, you’ll find a dive trip to Lake Geneva is one that is both memorable and intriguing.