Stand-up paddleboarding in Switzerland offers an unforgettable blend of crystal-clear lakes and stunning alpine scenery. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, the peaceful waters and well-maintained lake access points make SUP accessible and enjoyable. This guide highlights the best spots to explore and experience Switzerland’s natural beauty.
Why Switzerland Is Perfect for Stand-Up Paddleboarding
- Crystal-clear lakes with excellent water quality
- Calm conditions ideal for both beginners and advanced paddlers
- Spectacular alpine scenery surrounding many lakes
- Easy access to waterfronts via public transport
- Well-marked swimming and paddling zones for safety
- Numerous SUP rental shops and guided tour options
- Clean, organized beaches and entry points
- Variety of lake types: large open lakes or quiet alpine lakes
- Suitable for sunrise, sunset, or full-day paddling trips
- Peaceful environment that enhances relaxation and nature connection
Best Stand-Up Paddleboarding Spots in Switzerland
1. Lake Geneva (Lac Léman)
- Size and geography: Lake Geneva is one of Europe’s largest lakes, spanning approximately 580 km², with a length of about 73 km and a maximum width of 14 km. Its waters stretch from Geneva in the southwest to Villeneuve in the east, bordered by Switzerland and France.
- Water quality: The lake is renowned for its exceptionally clean and clear water, ideal for swimming and paddleboarding. Summer surface temperatures reach around 20–23°C, making it comfortable for long sessions.
- Scenic surroundings: Paddleboarding offers views of the Alps, the Jura mountains, terraced vineyards in Lavaux (UNESCO World Heritage Site), and charming lakeside towns such as Montreux, Vevey, and Lausanne.
- Montreux: A popular launch point near the Freddie Mercury statue. Paddle along the shore towards Château de Chillon, a 13th-century castle on a small island, roughly 2–3 km from Montreux. This route offers calm water for intermediate paddlers.
- Vevey: Features the giant lake sculpture “The Fork”, as well as quiet spots for beginners to practice. Distance from Montreux: approx. 6 km by water.
- Lausanne-Ouchy: Busy and lively promenade area, with easy access to SUP rental shops and lakeside cafés. Paddle from Ouchy marina to Vidy or further west for up to 5–6 km routes.
- Riviera routes: The Lavaux vineyards provide scenic paddling near terraced vineyards. Distances between villages like Cully, Epesses, and Rivaz are ideal for half-day paddling trips (~3–5 km).
- Accessibility: Major train stations (Montreux, Vevey, Lausanne) are within 5–10 minutes of the shore. Boat transport is also available for flexible start and end points.
- SUP rentals and lessons: Most towns provide daily and hourly rentals, including boards, paddles, and life vests. Guided tours are available for beginners, lasting 1–3 hours.
- Best time to paddle: June to September, early morning for calm waters, or evenings for golden light on the lake.
- Safety notes: Afternoon winds can create waves; paddlers should stay near the shore. Some sections of the lake are frequented by boats—always follow local maritime rules.
- Nearby attractions: Combine SUP with walking tours in Montreux old town, wine tasting in Lavaux, or cycling along the lake promenade, making it a multi-activity experience.
2. Lake Zürich (Zürichsee)
- Size and geography: Lake Zürich is approximately 88 km², with a length of about 40 km and a maximum width of 3 km. It stretches from Zürich city in the northwest to Rapperswil in the southeast, surrounded by Swiss towns and rolling hills.
- Water quality: The lake has crystal-clear water and excellent environmental standards, making it perfect for swimming and SUP. Summer surface temperatures range from 19–22°C, ideal for long paddling sessions.
- Scenic surroundings: Paddleboarding offers views of the Alps, gentle hills, lakeside parks, and charming towns like Rapperswil, Küsnacht, and Uetikon. The western shore near Zürich city has a lively urban vibe, while the eastern shore is quieter and more scenic.
- Zürich city: SUP enthusiasts can launch directly from Zürichhorn or Mythenquai, enjoying urban waterfronts, modern architecture, and nearby cafés. Routes of 3–5 km allow beginners to explore the lake safely.
- Rapperswil: Known as the “Town of Roses,” it features a medieval castle, rose gardens, and scenic harbor. SUP routes from Rapperswil to nearby villages like Jona or Pfäffikon offer 5–7 km stretches of calm, picturesque water.
- Küsnacht & Uetikon: Smaller, quieter launch points ideal for beginners or those seeking a peaceful paddle surrounded by nature.
- Sunrise and sunset paddling: Water reflects soft colors during golden hour, providing stunning photo opportunities, especially near Rapperswil or along the eastern shore.
- Accessibility: Easily reachable by public transport—Zürich main station connects to trains, trams, and buses within minutes of the lake. Parking is available at major launch points.
- SUP rentals and lessons: Available in Zürich, Rapperswil, and Küsnacht. Rentals typically include boards, paddles, life vests, and optional guided tours lasting 1–3 hours.
- Best time to paddle: May to September, early mornings for calm waters, evenings for soft light and fewer boats.
- Safety notes: Afternoon winds can create small waves, especially near open stretches. Beginners should stay near the shore and wear a life vest.
- Nearby activities: Combine SUP with lakeside cycling, walking along the promenade, visiting Rapperswil castle, or enjoying cafés and restaurants along the waterfront.
3. Lake Lucerne (Vierwaldstättersee)
- Size and geography: Lake Lucerne covers approximately 114 km², with a complex, fjord-like shape stretching about 38 km from Lucerne city to Flüelen. It is surrounded by the Swiss Alps, including the Rigi and Pilatus mountains, providing dramatic scenery.
- Water quality: Renowned for its clean, fresh alpine waters, the lake offers ideal conditions for SUP. Summer surface temperatures reach 18–21°C, perfect for long paddling trips.
- Scenic surroundings: Paddle along quiet bays, steep cliffs, and charming lakeside villages such as Vitznau, Weggis, and Brunnen. The lake is famous for its fjord-like arms and panoramic mountain reflections.
- Lucerne city: Launch near the central pier or Rotsee, with access to SUP rentals, guided tours, and cafes along the waterfront. Short paddling trips of 2–4 km are ideal for beginners.
- Vitznau and Weggis: Quieter areas with calm waters, perfect for intermediate paddlers. Paddle along vineyards and luxury lakeside hotels for stunning scenery.
- Brunnen: Eastern arm of the lake offers longer routes of 5–8 km, surrounded by forested slopes and small villages, ideal for peaceful SUP sessions.
- Rigi and Pilatus views: Iconic mountain peaks reflected in the water create some of Switzerland’s most photogenic paddleboarding spots.
- Accessibility: Well-connected by trains, ferries, and boats. Many villages have SUP rental stations, parking, and easy water entry points.
- SUP rentals and lessons: Available in Lucerne, Vitznau, and Weggis, including boards, paddles, life vests, and optional guided tours for beginners.
- Best time to paddle: Late May to September. Early mornings offer calm mirror-like water; evenings provide golden hour lighting and fewer crowds.
- Safety tips: Watch for occasional winds in the afternoon. Keep near the shore if inexperienced, and follow local boat traffic rules.
- Combination experiences: Paddleboarding can be paired with lakeside hiking, visiting the Chapel Bridge, taking the Rigi or Pilatus cable cars, or exploring lakeside restaurants and wineries.
4. Lake Lugano
- Size and geography: Lake Lugano is located in southern Switzerland, in the canton of Ticino, extending into northern Italy. The lake covers approximately 48 km², is about 35 km long, and 4 km wide at its widest point. It is surrounded by rolling hills, forested slopes, and the Lugano Prealps, creating a mix of Mediterranean and alpine scenery.
- Water quality: The lake is renowned for its calm, clean waters. Summer temperatures reach 22–25°C, making it one of the warmest paddleboarding destinations in Switzerland.
- Scenic surroundings: Paddle past charming lakeside towns such as Morcote, Gandria, and Lugano city. Enjoy views of villas, gardens, and mountain peaks reflecting in turquoise waters. The combination of Mediterranean-style architecture and alpine backdrop makes it unique.
- Lugano city: SUP launch points in the city include Parco Ciani and Lido di Lugano, offering easy access, rentals, and nearby cafés. Beginners can try short routes of 2–3 km along the waterfront.
- Morcote and Gandria: Quieter villages along the eastern shore provide peaceful paddling away from the crowds. Routes from Morcote to Gandria are around 5–7 km, ideal for intermediate paddlers.
- Sunrise & sunset paddling: The calm waters in the morning offer mirror-like reflections of the mountains and villas, while evenings give golden light and soft skies perfect for photography.
- Accessibility: Lugano and nearby towns are easily reached by train, bus, and car. Docks and public piers provide easy water entry points.
- SUP rentals & lessons: Available in Lugano, Morcote, and Gandria, including boards, paddles, life vests, and guided tours from 1–3 hours. Lessons are available for beginners.
- Safety tips: Winds can increase in the afternoon. Paddlers should stay near the shore if inexperienced. Life vests are recommended.
- Combination activities: Paddleboarding can be combined with walking along the lakeside promenade, visiting Morcote’s historic town center, or exploring Swissminiatur park nearby. The lake is also perfect for combining SUP with swimming or small boat excursions.
- Unique experience: Lake Lugano’s Mediterranean atmosphere, warm waters, and surrounding mountains make it an unforgettable SUP destination for all levels.
5. Lake Thun
- Size and geography: Lake Thun is located in the Bernese Oberland, west of Interlaken. It covers approximately 48 km², with a length of about 17 km and a maximum width of 3.5 km. The lake lies at an altitude of 558 meters, surrounded by Alpine peaks and forested hills, creating breathtaking scenery for paddleboarders.
- Water quality: Known for crystal-clear, turquoise water, Lake Thun is perfect for SUP in summer. Surface temperatures range from 18–20°C, comfortable for long paddling sessions.
- Scenic surroundings: Paddle along the lakeshore and enjoy views of Spiez Castle, vineyards, and small lakeside towns like Spiez, Thun, and Faulensee. The combination of mountains, castles, and quaint villages makes each paddleboarding session a scenic experience.
- Spiez: A popular launch point, near Spiez Castle. Paddlers can explore nearby bays and calm waters for 2–4 km routes, perfect for beginners and intermediate paddlers.
- Thun city: Offers urban waterfront access, SUP rental shops, and cafés along the promenade. Routes of 3–5 km are ideal for sightseeing and photography, with views of the historic old town.
- Bönigen & Oberhofen: Smaller villages with sheltered bays provide peaceful paddling routes. Oberhofen Castle is visible from the water, creating excellent photo opportunities.
- Popular paddling routes:
- Spiez to Thun (~6 km): Calm waters passing castles and vineyards.
- Thun to Oberhofen (~4 km): Quiet route for beginners and nature lovers.
- Sunrise & sunset paddling: Early mornings offer mirror-like water; evenings provide soft light on the mountains and castles.
- Accessibility: Easily reachable by train, car, or bus. Village docks offer easy entry points and parking.
- SUP rentals & lessons: Available in Spiez, Thun, and Bönigen, including boards, paddles, life vests, and optional guided tours lasting 1–3 hours. Beginners can take short lessons.
- Safety tips: Afternoon winds can make open stretches choppier. Beginners should stay near the shore and always wear a life vest.
- Combination activities: Paddleboarding can be paired with hiking along the lakeshore, visiting Spiez Castle or Oberhofen Castle, exploring vineyards, or taking boat tours for extended adventures.
- Unique experience: Lake Thun combines Alpine scenery, historic landmarks, and turquoise waters, offering unforgettable SUP sessions for all skill levels.
6. Lake Brienz
- Size and geography: Lake Brienz is located in the Bernese Oberland, east of Interlaken. It covers approximately 29 km², with a length of about 14 km and a maximum width of 2.5 km. The lake sits at an altitude of 564 meters and is fed by glacial streams, giving it its striking turquoise-blue color.
- Water quality: Known for exceptionally clear, cold alpine water, Lake Brienz is ideal for SUP. Summer temperatures reach around 18–20°C, perfect for paddling and swimming.
- Scenic surroundings: Paddle past forested slopes, waterfalls, and quaint villages like Bönigen, Iseltwald, and Brienz town. The surrounding Alpine peaks and reflections on the turquoise water make every SUP session visually stunning.
- Bönigen: A popular launch point for both beginners and intermediate paddlers. Calm waters here provide a safe environment for learning SUP skills. Short routes of 2–3 km are ideal for a first session.
- Iseltwald: Known for its picturesque village with traditional wooden houses and lakefront terraces. Paddle along the shore for 3–5 km, enjoying serenity and amazing photo opportunities.
- Brienz town: Offers a mix of cultural sites, cafés, and docks for launching. Routes along the eastern shore provide longer paddling trips of 5–7 km, with views of waterfalls and mountain peaks.
- Sunrise & sunset paddling: Early morning offers calm, mirror-like water; evening paddles provide golden light reflecting off the turquoise lake and surrounding mountains.
- Accessibility: Easily reachable by train, bus, or car. Most villages have docks, parking, and easy lake entry points.
- SUP rentals & lessons: Available in Brienz, Iseltwald, and Bönigen, including boards, paddles, life vests, and guided tours of 1–3 hours. Beginners can take lessons for safe paddling.
- Safety tips: Afternoon winds and occasional boat traffic can create small waves. Beginners should stay near the shore and wear a life vest.
- Combination activities: SUP can be combined with hiking the surrounding trails, visiting Brienz Rothorn Railway, or exploring local villages and museums along the lake.
- Unique experience: Lake Brienz is renowned for its turquoise water, Alpine backdrop, and peaceful paddling conditions, making it a must-visit destination for stand-up paddleboard enthusiasts of all levels.
7. Lake Sils & Lake Silvaplana (Engadin)
- Size and geography:
- Lake Silvaplana: Covers approximately 2.7 km², 3 km long, 1 km wide, located at 1,797 meters altitude in the Upper Engadin valley.
- Lake Sils: Slightly smaller, 4.1 km², 3.3 km long, 1.3 km wide, at an altitude of 1,797 meters. Both lakes lie within a stunning alpine plateau surrounded by peaks such as Piz Corvatsch and Piz da la Margna.
- Water quality: Pristine glacial waters with excellent clarity. Summer surface temperatures reach 17–20°C, suitable for paddling, especially early in the season.
- Scenic surroundings: Paddleboarding offers panoramic views of Engadin’s wide valley, snow-capped mountains, and traditional Swiss chalets. Both lakes are framed by lush meadows and alpine forests, making the experience peaceful and photogenic.
- Silvaplana town: Central launch points for SUP, with calm water zones ideal for beginners. Routes of 2–4 km allow paddlers to explore the lake without strong winds.
- Lake Sils: Offers longer routes of 4–6 km, perfect for intermediate paddlers. The eastern shore is quieter and less visited, ideal for serene paddling.
- Sunrise & sunset paddling: Mornings provide mirror-like water and soft reflections of the mountains; evenings offer spectacular golden light and clear alpine skies, perfect for photography.
- Accessibility: Easily reached by train and bus from St. Moritz (approx. 15–20 minutes). Village docks provide parking, easy lake entry points, and rental access.
- SUP rentals & lessons: Available in Silvaplana and Sils, including boards, paddles, life vests, and guided tours of 1–3 hours. Lessons are ideal for beginners.
- Popular activities combined with SUP: Windsurfing and kiteboarding are popular on Lake Silvaplana due to reliable afternoon winds. Paddleboarding can be paired with hiking in the surrounding trails, cycling, or exploring St. Moritz nearby.
- Safety tips: Afternoon winds can create choppy water on Lake Silvaplana; beginners should stick near the shore and wear life vests. Lake Sils is generally calmer and suitable for all skill levels.
- Unique experience: These Engadin lakes combine alpine beauty, tranquility, and glacial waters, offering some of Switzerland’s most photogenic and peaceful stand-up paddleboarding destinations.
SUP Rentals and Tours in Switzerland – Key Highlights
- Available in major lakes: Geneva, Zürich, Lucerne, Thun, Brienz, Lugano, Silvaplana, Sils
- Rental shops provide boards, paddles, and life vests
- Guided tours for beginners and intermediate paddlers
- Lesson duration: 1–3 hours, some full-day tours available
- Most rentals allow hourly, half-day, and full-day options
- Popular towns: Montreux, Lausanne, Zürich, Lucerne, Interlaken, Lugano, Silvaplana
- Some rentals offer SUP yoga sessions on calm lakes
- Accessible via train, bus, or car, close to docks
- Safety equipment included: leash, life vest, waterproof bag
- Recommended booking in summer (June–September) for best conditions
Safety Tips for Paddleboarding in Switzerland
- Always wear a life vest or personal flotation device (PFD)
- Use a leash to stay connected to your board
- Check weather and wind conditions before heading out
- Stick to beginner-friendly areas if you’re new
- Be aware of boat traffic and respect navigation rules
- Avoid paddling alone in remote areas
- Wear appropriate clothing for water temperature (wetsuit if needed)
- Carry a dry bag with phone and essentials
- Stay near shorelines if wind picks up
- Take lessons if you’re inexperienced or unfamiliar with the lake
Final Thoughts
Paddle, wobble, splash, repeat! Switzerland’s lakes are perfect for pretending you’re a SUP pro—even if you tip over three times. Bring snacks, sunscreen, and a sense of humor. Remember: it’s not about perfection, it’s about floating, paddling, and laughing while looking like a majestic, slightly clumsy water ninja.