Yvoire

Haute-Savoie
Family-friendly
Water sports
Unusual attractions
Bell tower clad in stainless steel and gold leaf
Lake
On the shores of Lake Geneva
Garden village
Garden of the Five Senses

Yvoire, a medieval town on Lake Geneva and the flower-filled gem of Haute-Savoie

On the shores of Lake Geneva, Yvoire has retained its medieval charm. A former fortified town founded by the Counts of Savoy, it still bears the traces of its fishermen and boatmen of yesteryear.

Castle, ramparts, historic gates… Over 700 years of history await you! As you wander through the narrow streets lined with flowers, your steps will inevitably lead you to one of its two harbours, simply to enjoy the sight of the boats and the ever-changing colours of the lake’s waters.

A historic and sensory getaway on the shores of Lake Geneva

Set against a backdrop of a sparkling lake, ancient buildings and the scents of gardens, treat yourself to an authentic, sensory experience in the heart of a village steeped in history. Ready for a change of scenery?

Jardin des Cinq Sens Jardin5Sens Yvoire

Jardin des Cinq Sens

Set in the castle's former kitchen garden, this plant maze offers a unique way to experience nature. Touch, smell, listen, observe and taste your way through this medieval-inspired garden, where every path stimulates your senses.

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Croisière sur le Léman Destination Léman

Croisière sur le Léman

Set off on a cruise across the peaceful waters of Lake Geneva from the port of Yvoire. Take in the unique views of the French and Swiss shores from a hybrid boat or a Belle Époque-style vessel.

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In the words of the people of Yvoire

When the writer Alfred de Bougy arrived in Yvoire in 1844, he described it in one chapter as a place of “pigsties” and “the most wretched of villages”. Today, this magnificent village on Lake Geneva is making a resounding comeback!


Your experiences to live in Yvoire

Have a coffee on a terrace, just like a local! ©Destination Léman – C. Haas

Have a coffee on a terrace, just like a local!

To get a taste of local life, take a seat on a terrace in the morning, when Yvoire is slowly coming to life. Let yourself be carried away by the gentle warmth of the first rays of sunshine, watch the narrow streets come to life and enjoy this special experience, just like a local!

Treat yourself to a sunset from the marina ©L. KUNG

Treat yourself to a sunset from the marina

End the day overlooking the lake, gazing at the golden reflections on Lake Geneva. From the marina, with the masts of the boats dotting the horizon, the sunset is quite simply magical.

Take part in a ‘Murder party’ ©Yllar Montagne – Destination Léman

Take part in a ‘Murder party’

Step into the shoes of a medieval detective for one summer’s evening! Clues, red herrings and a friendly atmosphere will lead you through the narrow streets of Yvoire in search of the ‘Missing Lord’. A brilliant idea for an outing with family or friends!

View from the fishing harbour ©Destination Lake Geneva

View from the fishing harbour

Walk to the end of the jetty and take in this breathtaking view. The castle on one side, the crystal-clear waters of Lake Geneva on the other

Join the costumed tour in summer

Join the costumed tour in summer

Follow the guide, dressed as Countess Sibylle de Baugé, through the narrow streets of Yvoire. Step back into the Middle Ages and discover the secrets of this fortified village.

Ideas for everyone, all the time

Water sports on the lake

Set sail with the family for a fun and refreshing day out on Lake Geneva! Tubing or wakeboarding for the more adventurous, or a more leisurely cruise to admire the scenery from the lake: there’s something for everyone, young and old alike!

©Destination Léman – A. Berger
©Destination Léman – C. Vuillequez

An afternoon’s swim at the lake

When the heat builds up, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing break by the shores of Lake Geneva. Head to La Garitte beach, just past the fishing harbour, for a peaceful swim amidst the Savoyard countryside.

A stroll around the Domaine de Rovorée

Make the most of the soft autumn light for a walk around the Domaine de Rovorée and La Châtaignière. With its well-maintained footpaths, centuries-old chestnut trees and lakeside setting, it’s the ideal place to admire the autumn colours and breathe in the mountain air.

Mr Todeschini – Destination Léman
©Villa Cécile

Spa & massage at La Villa Cécile

On a grey day, treat yourself to some relaxation and pampering at La Villa Cécile. A sauna, steam room, massages, facials and relaxation treatments await you to help you shake off the stress and recharge your batteries.

At the moment, no events are planned

Stay tuned, new events are coming soon!

Our recommendations

La Riviera Victoria Destination Léman - C. Vuillequez

La Riviera Victoria

Hôtel - restaurant

Overlooking the port of Yvoire, between Lake Geneva and the medieval streets, the 4* La Riviera Victoria hotel and restaurant will be your haven of peace, the perfect base from which to explore the region.

Le Bateau Ivre Bateau Ivre

Le Bateau Ivre

Restaurant

This gourmet bistro is housed in a former village butcher's shop and serves market-fresh cuisine with a local flavour.

Map of Yvoire

Extend the visit to near Yvoire

Prepare your stay at Yvoire

How to get here?

Accessibility
Yvoire

# Accessible aux personnes à mobilité réduite : Accessibilité aux personnes à mobilité réduite et aux poussettes (mais quelques pentes fortes)

# Parking : Stationnement payant toute l'année

# Parking : Emplacements de stationnement pour vélo

# Bateaux promenade : Croisière sur le Léman

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