Lake Geneva, Upper Savoy, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, Metropolitan France, 1898, France
Lake Geneva, a stunning glacial lake nestled on the northern side of the Alps, marks the boundary between Switzerland and France. This picturesque body of water is renowned for being one of the largest in Western Europe and the biggest on the Rhône River’s course. Its expansiveness is evident in its 73 km length, 14 km width, and a profound depth of 310 meters.
Geographical Footprint
Straddling two countries, Lake Geneva covers a total area of 580.03 square kilometers. Switzerland claims sixty percent of the lake, incorporating the cantons of Vaud, Geneva, and Valais. The remaining forty percent belongs to France, within the department of Haute-Savoie. This geographical split adds to the lake’s allure, offering a blend of Swiss and French cultures along its shores.
Historical Roots and Nomenclature
The lake’s name dates back to ancient times, initially known as Lacus Lemanus during Julius Caesar’s era. Over the centuries, its name evolved through various iterations like Lacus Lausonius and Lac de Lausanne, reflecting the shifting influence of nearby regions. In modern times, while Lake Geneva is the widely accepted name in English, it is locally known as Le Léman in French, Lago Lemano in Italian, and Genfersee in German.
Three Distinct Sections
Lake Geneva is uniquely divided into three parts, each formed differently through sedimentation, tectonic activity, and glacial erosion:
- Haut Lac: The ‘Upper Lake’ stretches from the Rhône estuary to the Meillerie–Rivaz line.
- Grand Lac: This is the largest and deepest section, marking the broadest part of the lake.
- Petit Lac: The ‘Small Lake’ is situated in the southwest, characterized by its narrow and less profound waters.
Climate and Environmental Evolution
Lake Geneva has experienced significant changes due to climate shifts. Deep water temperatures have risen from 4.4°C in 1963 to 5.5°C in 2016. Surface water has also warmed, from an average of 10.9°C in 1970 to 12.9°C in 2016. These changes have implications for the lake’s ecosystem and the activities surrounding it.