Lake Geneva (Lac Léman) covers around 580 square kilometres, making it the largest lake in the Alps and one of the largest freshwater lakes in Western Europe. It stretches from Geneva in the west to Le Bouveret in Valais, nestled between the Jura to the north and the Vaud and Valais Alps to the south. The climate along the shore is mild and Mediterranean in character.

The most celebrated sights along the shore include the Jet d'Eau in Geneva, Chillon Castle near Montreux, the Lavaux wine terraces (UNESCO World Heritage) between Lausanne and Vevey, and the lakeside promenade of Montreux. Passenger boats of the CGN connect the main towns and villages year-round. The northern shore is densely developed and tourist-oriented; the southern shore on French territory is quieter.

Lake Geneva is well reachable by train from Geneva, Lausanne or Montreux. The A1 motorway runs parallel to the northern shore. Boat services from Geneva, Lausanne-Ouchy, Vevey, Montreux and Villeneuve.