Évian-les-Bains

For an effortless change of scenery (and country), glide across the lake in just 35 minutes by boat to Évian-les-Bains. 

This refined French spa town is best known for its thermal baths, wellness culture and, well, the water, making for a serene day trip that moves at an altogether gentler clip. 

For a visit to the spa, try to time your visit for midweek, then take a sedate wander down the promenade to admire its Belle Époque good looks.  

If you can, take in Les Jardins de L’eau du Pré Curieux – another short boat trip from the Évian quay. Here, you can saunter between calm water lily pools, marshy meadows and river-edge plantings as you drink in the natural beauty. It’s all very refreshing.