Divonne-les-Bains is well known for its thermal past, its proximity to Geneva and its location at the foot of the Haute Chaîne du Jura. The town offers a wide range of activities: lakeside walks, forest hikes, swimming, shows, heritage, discovering the springs and outdoor leisure activities.
Divonne-les-Bains offers an accessible break between town, nature and culture, where you can take the time to discover, relax and change pace.
Why come to Divonne-les-Bains?
A city born of water, shaped by history
In Divonne-les-Bains, water is more than just a backdrop: it is the very essence of the town. Its name comes from Divona, the Celtic goddess of springs, who was venerated long before the Romans harnessed its benefits. As early as the 1st century, they brought her pure waters to Nyon to supply their thermal baths, via an 11-kilometre-long underground aqueduct – a masterpiece of ancient engineering.
In the 19th century, water took over once again: Dr Paul Vidart set up an Institut Hydrothérapique in 1849. From then on, Divonne became a fashionable spa resort, frequented by an elegant clientele attracted by the setting and the benefits of its springs.
Unspoilt nature between the Jura, Lake Geneva and Mont Blanc
Surrounded by forests, lakes and peaks, Divonne-les-Bains is a natural balcony overlooking some of the most beautiful scenery in the region. Here, the town takes a back seat to the environment: 60% of the commune is classified as a National Nature Reserve, and six signposted footpaths guide you to spectacular views of the Lake Geneva valley and the peaks of Mont Blanc.
A stone’s throw away, the Haut-JuraRegional Nature Park unfurls its deep forests, ridges, mountain pastures and discreet wildlife. Divonne is recognised as the “gateway town” to this exceptional region.
A destination with many faces
Divonne-les-Bains offers a range of activities linked to its environment, history and local life. The artificial lake, designed for bathing and walking, is bordered by green spaces with no car traffic. There is also a racecourse, a golf course, educational trails, a casino, cultural facilities and a regular programme of events.
The immediate proximity of Geneva, Nyon and the Jura mountains means you can enjoy a wide range of activities, whether for a day or a short break.
Good to know
- Divonne-les-Bains has more than 30 natural springs, some of which are accessible in the town centre.
- The town has been awarded the “gateway town” label by the Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park
- It is part of the Léman sans frontière network of 39 Franco-Swiss sites.
in Divonne-les-bains
Prepare your visit
Practical information
Access
- By car: 20 min from Geneva (A40, Gex / Divonne exit), 30 min from Monts Jura resort
- By train: Geneva Cornavin station, then TPG line or taxi
- By plane: Geneva International Airport 20 minutes away
Parking
- Free parking around the lake and in the leisure area
- No cars allowed on the banks of the lake (pedestrian and cycle zone)
To find out more about Pays de Gex…
- Voltaire’s castle
Immerse yourself in history with a visit to the Château de Voltaire. Discover this emblematic site in the Pays de Gex, where the philosopher lived and worked. A site steeped in history, it also offers an unbeatable view of the region. - Fort l’Écluse
An impressive historical tour with breathtaking views of the Rhône. - The Monts Jura resort
A destination for winter and summer sports enthusiasts, with something for all the family.
