Lake Geneva, France and Switzerland – one of the best and most popular lakes to visit in Europe Not far from Lake Annecy is easily one of the most famous lakes in Europe – Lake Geneva, it’s also one of the largest lakes on the continent-spanning both France and Switzerland. It is one of two Great Lakes that border the state and is located on the eastern side of the state off the shores of Door County.. Stubenbergsee : 5. There’s nothing quite like it - no matter how cold it may get! Courtesy of Visit Connecticut . Our local Adam has several go-to lakes for swimming, but Teufelssee, located in the heart of Grunewald, is his favorite one to visit on a really hot day. In fact, it’s become so popular that some locals have started swimming to and from work when the temperatures get up. This article contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if a reader clicks through and It has been updated with new information. Idyllic. Hirschpoint am Hintersee : 6. This spectacular landscape inspired William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter. The kids spent hours on paddleboards messing around close to shore, and heading for pontoons where they could jump and dive in. Book Hotels in Patagonia. At the junction of the Alps, the Mediterranean and the Pannonian Plain, it will surprise you with its diversity and lush natural beauty. Italy's 5 Most Popular Lakes in the Lake District in Northern Italy, These Are Switzerland's Most Scenic Train Routes, Taking the Train Between Italy and Switzerland, Top 6 Places to See Autumn Leaves in Germany, The 15 Best Places in the World to Go Paragliding, The 13 Best Things to Do in Salzkammergut, Explore Lombardy and the Lakes with this Map and Guide, 12 Countryside Regions to Visit in Europe, Explore Maps of Europe and Plan Your Vacation. Eibsee : 3. The lake is big enough that you can find a small cove just for yourself (especially in the morning), hire a kayak, swim alone, hang out with campers or watch shoals of trout from the picturesque bridge in Ribčev Laz. Both novice and experienced wild swimmers alike regularly flock to the country to enjoy reconnecting with nature and taking a dive into pristine waters. Taylor Weeks, This is a lake few visitors to these parts seem to know about. A hike to Gales Lake (1,990 meters) is one of the best ways to uncover Retezat National Park where more than one-third of Romania’s glacial lakes are found. Lake Constance, Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, Lake Massaciuccoli and Torre del Lago Puccini, Italy. And yes, grand villas like George Clooney's. Paul McQueen. Copacabana and Ipanema are great for anyone looking to shake off a night on the caipirinhas. Susie Lee-Kilgariff, Beside Bassenthwaite Lake, just outside Keswick on the A591 to Carlisle, sits the beautiful house and gardens at Mirehouse (£4 garden admission, £8.50 including house, children half price, under 4s free). It’s a very old, deep glacial lake, which means it stays much cooler and for longer than other lakes in the area – ideal for … These are the best Eurocamp sites for families in Europe. It is formed by a dam on the Cetina river as it rushes through the karst landscape, its source forming an agate pool that attracts a small number of tourists. An easy walk takes you through a site of special scientific interest, past a bird hide. A little-known fact about Berlin is that the city and the surrounding state of Brandenburg have 3,000 lakes and is the largest area of waterscape in Germany. It’s no surprise then, that the water quality is supreme. Wild swimming has soared in popularity in the last few years, with more and more of us embracing the freedom of open waters; dipping our toes into rivers, lakes and waterfalls. If Italy is known for its incredible historical heritage, it also shines with the beauty of its lands rich in contrast and variety. The monasteries of Bagan and the capital of Yangon continue to be its biggest draws, but you’d be remiss … Lake Davos : 2. Take a dip in its sparkling waters or hike the five-mile trail that winds around its shore. Nearby is a secluded grassy bathing spot with a mini-beach. The warm, calm water tempted me (a reluctant participant) into swimming across the lake. You can see it for yourself on a steamboat through the lakes or from a mountain top that affords stunning views. Europe has lakes around which prehistoric humans mined salt, lakes with monastic islands, lakes for bird- and opera-watching, and just plain drop-dead gorgeous ones. Switzerland is famed for its crystal-clear waters – so clean you can practically gulp them down – but none are as lively as this little slice of the Limmat in Zurich. Whether it’s wild swimming, stone skimming or simply messing about in boats, there’s nothing quite like camping beside a river or lake. attersee-attergau.salzkammergut.atFran, It’s hard to imagine getting closer to nature than sleeping on a lake. Join in our 4 day Slovenian Lake Swimming holiday adventure in the heart of Europe. 7 of 50. … From Wild Swimming in Ireland – Discover 50 Places to Swim in Rivers, Lakes and the Sea, published by The Collins Press, 2016. There is a village about an hour away by foot, but otherwise there is just peace and quiet and the most stunning sunrises to wake up to. A new campsite on the lakeshore has pitches at €15 a day . Windsurf or ski, skate and snow-cat in winter.Roy O’Shea, Lake Caumasee is known as the Jewel of Flims… no filters are needed to capture its iridescent turquoise depths. Don’t overlook Switzerland just because of its landlocked status, there are plenty of waters to explore - both in the city and the countryside. Next up is Fuschlsee, home of the Red Bull HQ and also home to many Austrians’ fancy summer homes. A stone’s throw from Nice and accessible via breathtaking hikes through alpine pastures bursting with wildflowers, you’re spoilt for choice in this plodder’s paradise. Wild swimming holes are often local hotspots, giving visitors the chance to experience something beyond the usual roll call of museums, galleries and restaurants. These are: The best photo opportunities occur when the weather is bad – the murkier the skies, the bluer the icebergs appear. The closest town, Vrlika, is overlooked by a fortress.Nataly Anderson, Every week we ask our readers for recommendations from their travels. Lake Constance borders Switzerland, Austria, and Germany, so there is cultural diversity all over the place. 10 Inle Lake, Myanmar Once closed to American travelers, Myanmar is now full of discovery. Lago di Garda : 4. *This post contains affiliate links. The best pools, rivers and lakes for swimming in Switzerland. StayApartmentsSuitsWater babiesIn summer, Annecy is a charming lakeside city of canals, with swimming and water sports on Lake Annecy, one of … Saimaa ringed seal, one of the world’s most endangered seal species. The walk down is a simple zigzag (around 12km), passing by Savica waterfall, crowded with day-trippers from nearby Lake Bled. Switzerland has many lakes, but Lake Lugano is a standout in the scenic department, and it spans a couple of countries, Italy and Switzerland. Warmest lakes in Europe (ranked by water temperature) Swimming spots ; Weather for Swimmers ; Webcams ; Swimming spots . If you are feeling peckish, a popular place for a bite is Salt & Malt, which has award-winning food with spectacular views of the lake and rolling countryside. But what's this Lake Massaciuccoli? Lake Winnebago has a public beach for swimming and there are 13 public parks from which to access the lake for fishing and boating activities. Highlights: Wild swimming in emerald green waters with large rocks for sunbathing and … In this article, we shall take a dive ourselves into the top 5 best lakes for wild swimming in Slovenia. 10 Best Lakes to Swim in Near Paris. Lake swimming │Pixabay. Watch later. RELATED: The Best Hotels in Patagonia are a Design-Lover's Dream. There is a path along the loch with views of the surrounding mountains. https://traveller.easyjet.com/europes-best-wild-swimming-spots ... There’s even a saltwater swimming pool, perfect for cooling off on summer afternoons. Surviving Europe AWARD Best Place for a Peaceful Lake Stroll. Eight of us rented a log cabin from Hugon Villas, complete with a wood-fired lakeside sauna – to us, that felt like extravagance, but we soon discovered that in Finland they’re as common as an indoor toilet.Paul, We camped right on the water’s edge at Camping Sandbank after just turning up and finding a spot. Seefeld’s Wildsee has two lidos (the Strandperle has a restaurant, heated pool and a kids’ pool as well as kayaks and other lakeside activities). In good weather there is a challenging walk up to the Devil’s Kitchen, following a rocky path. With numerous beautiful lakes, rivers and seas, Slovenia has plenty of solid options for wild swimming. We enjoyed gazing at the distinctively shaped fell Melbreak, which looms over the lake, and listing what it reminded us of. Lake Maggiore is a large lake that is graced with promenades and charming villages. News Award Active Culture Tips . Crater Lake, Oregon Created from an ancient volcano and surrounded by sheer cliffs, this lake is the perfect color of deep blue and screams come swim in me! Gales Lake. Boat tour adult £36, child 6-12, £13, icelagoon.isClaire Dopson, This wonderful lake straddles the border between North Macedonia and Albania. 5. The waves lazily lapping against your feet, the sunrays dancing on the water. Plus, Lake Hévíz is only a short distance from the much bigger, slightly cooler but equally beautiful Lake Balaton. Pack a towel, remember to always put safety first and get ready to dive into the world's best places for swimming. Swim in the Lake Bled (to the church island), Triglav National Park, Lake Bohinj, Soca River and explore the green country of Slovenia. David, Probably not a great place to swim, but Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon in south-east Iceland offers boat tours among the icebergs floating in its waters. Car parking is at Dodd Wood, where there is an excellent tea room (sticky ginger pudding! It’s equally attractive for those wanting to swim or snorkel in calm natural waters, the towering rock surroundings providing little alcoves to explore. Photograph: Getty Images, 20 of the best lakes to visit in Europe: readers' travel tips. There are lots of lakes and bogs in Finland's huge Taiga Forest, home to endangered species like the brown bear and the wolverine, as well as wild forest reindeer and moose. One of Europe’s largest artificial lakes, Lac de Serre-Ponçon was created in the 1960s as part of a flood control project. Austria has many great lakes but Lake Faak or Faakersee – which is right on the border with Slovenia – is considered to be the lake with the cleanest, most drinkable water. Here are the top eight epic places for wild swimming in France. A selection of tips will be featured online and may appear in print. makes a purchase. 12 June 2017. A naturally formed spring- and sea-fed lake, it’s seen locally as a spa destination, with mineral-rich warm sulphurous waters that are thought to be therapeutic. In the summer they're great for all kinds of water sports, including swimming, boating, kayaking, or just taking in the scene. Late August/early September is quieter. The town of Hallstatt on the shores of Lake Hallstatt is a very interesting place, with ancient salt mines in which summer music concerts are held reachable by foot or by funicular. This thermal lake in Europe, just 12 acres big, is considered a “geological curiosity” thanks to its waters which stay warm at 38.5 degrees celsius throughout the year. Canada USA . Find here the most beautiful lakes in Austria for your next Europe vacay. Not all of the best European beaches are located on remote islands. Around Me Search . Jan 26, 2021 - Slovenia is an easily accessible country in the heart of Europe. Book an apartment in the city centre and you’ll be within walking distance. Facilities include lockers, a playground, sunloungers and a cafe/restaurant. As one of the cleanest lakes in Europe – thanks to strict environmental regulation – Lake Annecy is a popular resort spot for swimming and water sports in the warm summer months. Here are some of the most interesting lakes in Europe. Well, besides having a name that's fun to pronounce, this is the lake to come for the Puccini Festival in the summer. The Alps guard Lake Como on the north, while steep cliffs form the banks at some points, making it a stunning scene of water and stone. What is wild swimming? 9. The Lakeside Walk takes in woodland adventure playgrounds, an open-air theatre erected by The Tennyson Society, lambs in spring and a walled bee garden with an abundance of colourful and scented blooms. Italy, Switzerland, Germany, and Britain Hold Stunning Surprises. A lot of their parks have amazing pool complexes, entertainment and other facilities. The best way to explore Europe's sixth largest lake is by driving along its banks. Not convinced that European lake waters are warm enough to swim in? Boating on the lake is popular and boat hire readily available. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world’s largest sand island, Fraser Island is undeniably idyllic. There is also a reproduction of Thoreau’s cabin available for touring. There are numerous bathing spots on other nearby lakes. Most visitors will pause at the cafés and boutiques that line the cobbled stairways, but wild swimmers should stride 20 minutes along Via Roma to the very tip of the peninsula and the old harbour. It's a fun trip for kids, and if the weather is bad, you just hop the excursion boat when it's running. Lake Faaker See : 9. The Lake District is England's most densely populated national park, but there are no cities, large towns or major roads to ruin the landscape, which includes more than 50 lakes. 10 Mar 2021, 1:51pm 30 amazing family holidays for 2021. Camping is allowed along the lake, which is popular with swimmers, windsurfers and sailing enthusiasts. 6. From your natural swimming pool, you can admire the Maia Lighthouse, one of the iconic places of the Azores, one of the most beautiful landscapes of this archipelago of 9 islands of rare beauty. Magazine . llangorselake.co.ukMaria, Remote and stunningly beautiful, part of the adventure of Kinloch Hourn is getting there. Lake Bled offers an array of activities for travelers wherein they can enjoy the serene lake, have a walk around the lake, watch the swans and ducks, enjoy signature deserts at their coffee shops, and much more. Here are the famous Italian lakes: Como, Orta, Maggiore, and Garda. The rest of the time there's a fine "oasis" called Oasi di Massaciuccoli, a wetland park on the other side of the lake popular with photographers and bird watchers. ), toilets and osprey viewing platforms.Nicola, On the southern outskirts of Athens, in the area known as the Athens Riviera, Vouliagmeni lake is a wholly unexpected find a short way away from the city buzz. For your next fresh air fix, here is our choice for 20 of the most beautiful and best National Parks in Europe… Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia – a unique and stunning National Park to visit in Europe. From there, you can see Lake Bohinj shimmering in the distance. Lake Weissensee : 10. Timmendorfer Strand : Swimming spots in Europe Warmest lakes Dogs allowed Scenic Lakes & Beaches Best spas Largest lakes Largest spas Most affordable spas . Best for showing off your bikini: Bellagio, Lake Como Few places are as romantic as Lake Como , and beautiful, tiny Bellagio is as chic as it gets. 6. Also, this lake is a central point to make tours to different lakes and rivers in the country to perform activities like rafting, hiking, walking, and beautiful tours. You are reading "25 Best Swimming Lakes" Back to Top The Sava Bohinjka River provides a chilly thrill for flow-swimming fans. Things to Do. Europe. Torrente Fer. Alas, some villages were flooded to make way for the lake. Attersee : 7. You can sit in the shade on the grassy bank or worship the sun on its immaculate white sand beach. Parking at a car park at Ogwen Cottage on the A5, between Snowdon and Capel Curig, follow a lower footpath around the lake and admire the rugged landscape above. The gently shelving lake bed is safe for small children to swim. A short train ride takes you to the scenic Swiss city of Lugano from there. We were provided with a canoe, which is the only way to reach your bed for the night, and some basic camping equipment. List of the currently warmest lakes in Europe with water temperature being updated daily. Holidays in the ten best Austrian lake swimming resorts. Entrance fee to the lake is around £12 adults/£6 children aged 6-16.Rhiannon, If you’re hiking in the Julian Alps, make the last stop Komna Hut (€23-27 a night). Join in our 4 day Slovenian Lake Swimming holiday adventure in the heart of Europe. The Mediterranean Sea comes to mind when you think of an aquatic vacation in Europe, but the continent's lakes are also quite compelling places to visit. Lago di Garda : 4. With their takeaways and playgrounds, numerous smaller swimming lakes welcome visitors the whole year around. The Azores are truly Europe's best destination for sustainable tourism experiences and wilderness adventures. You can go to the lake by train, then take a boat into the town of Hallstatt. Seefeld. Highlights: Austrian-influenced villages, lush meadows, and rocky facades surround the wide beaches. Geneva offers the best of urban swimming, but if you’re craving a more secluded spot, head to the wild. Smack dab in the city centre, this 400m swimming channel is the centre of Zurich’s social scene, residents congregating under the shady pergolas that line the river, gossiping, lounging, and sometimes breaking to play boule. It has two small lakes on its doorstep: Viam, small and tranquil; and Lake Barriousses, larger, with activities for everyone – there’s even an area for dogs. Europe. More information. North America. Get the best of both worlds and jump in to the azure waters after scaling the cliff-jumping spot in the Brainard Lake Recreation Area. However, travel down the road to Triglav National Park’s Lake Bohinj and discover wilder scenery for free. The Alps guard Lake Como on the north, while steep cliffs form the banks at some points, making it a stunning scene of water and stone. Nestled between the imposing Mont Pelat (3,052 metres) to the north and the trio of peaks known as Les Tours du Lac to the south, Lac d’Allos’s shimmering cerulean waters are a characteristic of all the spectacular glacial lakes in the park. The lake, surrounded by the Black Mountains, is south Wales’s largest natural lake and known for its bird and fish populations. You can windsurf to two other linked lakes. Orchids and other wildflowers keep you company.Emma Nicholson, We love Llyn Geirionydd in north Wales, because you can swim, paddleboard, sail or walk around it. The views from the water to Sugarloaf Mountain are worth wading out for. Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America and has a depth of 1,645 ft (501 m), making it the second-deepest in the United States. From lake swimming in London to the deep swell off Cape Town, via a New York lido and Sydney tidal pool, these are the best … Bern ’s Aare River has earned a reputation for being one of Europe’s cleanest and most beautiful rivers for wild swimming. The fish and chips are fantastic! Surrounded by the mountains there are numerous walks and hikes, pristine farms and countryside. Here, the 25 best beaches in Europe. for a scenic walk along one of the lake’s nature trails – Grebe trail or Bittern trail. St. Martin : 8. The many public bathing areas, such as the one at Unterach am Attersee, provide food, watersports, shade, slides and shallow areas for children. Lake Hévíz might change your mind. Europe's best campsites by lakes and rivers Save Camping De Roos, The Netherlands.