Where can you swim around Lyon?

In summer, Lyon’s residents are looking for places to cool off and enjoy the sun. Although the banks of the Rhône and Saône rivers may seem like giant, free swimming areas right in the centre of Lyon, it’s important to remember that swimming there is risky and prohibited by local byelaws. Fortunately, there are several alternatives around the city where you can enjoy a day’s swimming in complete safety.

Lakes and lakes around Lyon

A number of destinations near Lyon offer lakes or other bodies of water where you can spend a pleasant day by the water:

• Lake Miribel-Jonage: less than two hours’ drive from the centre of Lyon, this lake has two free gravel beaches: Le Morlet and La Baraka. The N83 bus from Vaulx-en-Velin La Soie takes you there in 20 minutes.
• Bordelan lake: located in Villefranche-sur-Saône, around 30 minutes’ drive from Lyon, this lake offers a supervised beach in July and August, as well as a range of water sports and activities.
• Ile Chambod-Merpuis: in the Ain department, this island offers an unspoilt natural setting for a peaceful swim. However, it is important to respect the environment and not to park wildly.

Public swimming pools

For those who prefer the safety of swimming pools, Lyon’s public establishments are also an option for cooling off on hot summer days:

• The Rhône swimming pool: located on the banks of the river, this pool offers a large outdoor pool with a breathtaking view of the Parc de la Tête d’Or and the Cité Internationale.
• The Vaise pool: with an indoor and outdoor pool, this pool is ideal for families or groups of friends looking for a place to swim and play together.
• The Gerland pool: with an Olympic-size pool, a fun pool and a slide, this pool is perfect for competitive swimmers or those who just want to have fun in the water.

White water swimming around Lyon

Thrill-seekers can also opt for a white-water swim in the rivers or gorges around Lyon:

• The Ardèche gorges: located around two hours’ drive from Lyon, these gorges offer an exceptional natural setting for white-water swimming and canoeing.
• The Drôme river: an hour and a half’s drive from Lyon, this river offers white-water swimming in an unspoilt setting. The natural beaches along the river are ideal for resting and picnicking.

Safety instructions

When choosing a swimming area near Lyon, it is essential to follow certain safety instructions:

• Check that swimming is authorised and supervised at the site you have chosen.
• Don’t venture too far from the shore if you’re not very good at swimming.
• Always keep an eye on children when you’re near the water.
• During thunderstorms, avoid swimming because of the risk of electrocution or drowning from electric currents and flash floods.

By taking all this advice into account and choosing a location that suits you and your level of swimming ability, you’ll be able to make the most of the pleasures of swimming near Lyon and have a great time at the water’s edge.