Léman

Léman, also known as Lac Léman in French or Lake Geneva in English, is a large freshwater lake located on the north side of the Western Alps, forming part of the border between Switzerland and France. It stretches roughly in a crescent from the city of Geneva in the west to the Haute-Savoie and Valais regions in the east, with towns such as Geneva, Lausanne, Montreux, Vevey, and Nyon along its shores. The lake covers about 580 square kilometers, is roughly 73 kilometers long, and reaches depths of around 300 meters.

The name Lac Léman derives from the Latin Lacus Lemannus, with the French form Léman commonly used in Switzerland. The English name Lake Geneva reflects historical usage in English-speaking contexts.

Hydrology and environment: The Rhône River flows into the eastern end of the lake and exits at the western end, creating a stable hydrological system. The lake experiences seasonal stratification and diverse aquatic ecosystems, hosting species such as whitefish, perch, and pike. Water quality has improved markedly since the mid-20th century due to environmental regulations, though climate change and tourism continue to influence water levels and ecosystems.

Economy and culture: Léman is a major tourism and recreation hub, featuring lakeside promenades, cruises, and wine-growing landscapes, notably the Lavaux vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The region hosts cultural events such as the Montreux Jazz Festival. Transportation around the lake includes the Léman Express cross-border rail network linking Swiss and French communities, as well as ferries and roads that support commerce and commuting.