Guided Nyvoirienne

What is the route?

The swim route begins at Nyon (Switzerland) and ends at Nernier or Yvoire (France) depending on your chosen distance, although these may be reversed or altered depending on the conditions on the day. Your escort boat and pilot will guide you along the way.

When is the best time to swim Lake Geneva? Is the water clean?

For the past few years the warmest water temperatures in Lake Geneva have been in July and August, however this is not guaranteed and it is impossible to specify the best day for a swim attempt. Temperatures can range anywhere between 18ºC and 25ºC and the water quality has been described as ‘excellent’. The locals generally take great pride this status, with many public swimming zones along the shores of the lake.

Swim window

Typical swim windows are from Monday to Friday. The actual day of your swim will be decided based on the meteorological conditions and the priority of your reservation - several swims may be booked during the same window, and are prioritised according to who reserved first. The LGSA asks that you remain flexible and ensure that you are available to swim at any point during your swim window

Support person and feeding

You must arrange a support person to accompany your swim on the escort boat. This is key to the success of your swim as they will provide your feeds and any other personal needs you might have. Solo swimmers may bring a maximum of two support persons.

Is the Guided Nyvoirienne Swim an event or a race?

A Guided Nyvoirienne Swim is a private swim arranged just for you/your group to suit your needs. It is neither a mass participation event nor a race.

Can I swim as part of a relay or in a group?

Yes you can! You can swim in a group of up to four swimmers, however all swimmers must swim at the same pace and stay together throughout the swim. Alternatively you can also form a relay team.

What pace shall I put down?

You must provide us with your average time for completing one kilometre in open-water, during training or at an open-water swim event (if one time is faster then write the faster one). Remember, if swimming in a group all swimmers must swim at the same pace, at least 30 mins per km or faster, in order to complete the distance comfortably within the time limits.

Is there a time limit?

Typically swimmers complete the distance in between 1.5 hours and 3.5 hours. There is a maximum time limit of 4.5 hours to complete the swim.

What if the weather is bad?

If the forecast is looking bad we will contact you in the days before your chosen date to assess the available options.

Are wetsuits allowed?

Yes! You and your team are welcome to swim with or without a wetsuit. Bear in mind that wetsuit swims/relays will be recorded under a separate classification in the LGSA records.

Are there any requirements to attempt the swim?

Yes all swimmers are required to undergo a medical examination and provide a medical certificate prior to their swim. A Guided Nyvoirienne Swim is both physically and mentally demanding, and can place a great deal of stress on your body.

Where should I stay?

Where swimmers stay is down to preference, with many choosing to stay in Nyon or Yvoire. For general information on the area visit our Travel and accommodation page under Resources.

How do I find other aspiring Lake Geneva swimmers?

If you would like to meet other swimmers you can find Lake Geneva swimming forums online and dedicated groups on social media. Try searching for open water swimming clubs or Facebook/other social media platforms.