Located only 30 minutes by car (or train, thanks to the Leman Express!) from the centre of Geneva, is Lac de Machilly – just over the Swiss border in France.
This small lake is perfect for a family walk on a sunny afternoon. We went in the Autumn and the sky was clear and the leaves were beginning to turn red and orange. It was beautiful.
There are two car parks at either side of the lake (one by the play area and one by the golf course), or the train station is a 5 minute walk away. The walk around the lake is very well maintained and completely pushchair friendly. The walk around the whole lake would only take half an hour, but with a toddler in tow, it can take a lot longer!!
Our son loved exploring though and we had a great time wandering around the lake. We started by the place de jeux (play area) – this play area is mostly designed for older children, but there were some things that our 2 year old could access. There are plenty of benches and picnic benches as well.
Afterwards, he enjoyed going down to the lake shore and seeing the ducks and geese. We then followed the path around the lake to the small cafe / restaurant where we stopped for beers. They even had compote pouches for kids! There was a small golf course for kids and adults.
There are other footpaths to follow if you were looking for a longer walk, but we were happy to continue along the lake side path afterwards and we had a great time!
Information:
Train stop: Machilly
Car Park: Lac de Machilly and Golf de Machilly
Toilets: In the restaurant at the golf course / one public toilet in the car park
Restaurants: Golf de Machilly
Accessibilty: Wheelchair and pushchair friendly
Baby Steps 