Bains des Pâquis: 1872, Bauhaus architecture 1932, saved by referendum in 1988

1872, 1932, 1988: three dates that shape the history

The history of the Bains des Pâquis has three key moments:

1872: creation of the first wooden baths, then enlarged on stilts in 1889 under the name “Bains Henri”.

1931-1932: demolition of the old baths and reconstruction in reinforced concrete and glass under Bauhaus influence, by engineer Louis Archinard and architect Henry Roche. Total surface area of 6500m², divided into two equal spaces for men and women (feminist ahead of its time).

25 September 1988: Geneva referendum where 72% of voters opposed the municipal project to demolish, which saved the Baths and led to their classification as a monument to be preserved. It has become one of the textbook cases of Swiss direct democracy.

The AUBP: the association managing the site

In 1987, just before the referendum, the Association of Users of the Bains des Pâquis (AUBP) was created. Since its rescue, it has managed the activities and operations of the site under concession from the City of Geneva. The café, saunas, summer concerts and musical dawn (classical music at sunrise) are initiatives of the association.

It is this associative and democratic management that gives the Baths their particular atmosphere: no marketing, no privatisation, free access to the lake for all.

What you find there today

The site offers:

Public beach on the jetty, free access, used year-round.

Swimming in the lake, water tested regularly, in summer and winter alike (brave bathers at 5°C in January).

Café des Bains des Pâquis, affordable food and drink (modest prices for Geneva), terrace in season, popular and mixed atmosphere.

Sauna and hammam in the cold season, affordable, followed by a plunge into the icy lake (the “Genevan Finnish” experience).

Massage and wellness treatments at modest prices, provided on the jetty itself.

All within a unique architectural setting: Bauhaus-influenced concrete architecture that contrasts with the neighbouring luxury hotels on the northern shore.

Who it is designed for

The Bains des Pâquis are deliberately democratic: modest prices, very mixed clientele (students, workers, families, tourists, retirees), no dress codes or hierarchy. It is this diversity that makes it the principal attraction.

For a Geneva visitor, it is an essential stop between a visit to the Museum of Art and History and dinner in the old town: modest prices, view of the Jet d’Eau, unique atmosphere.

Musical dawn and other events

Several emblematic events punctuate the year:

Musical Dawn in summer: classical music concerts organised by the Orchestre de la Suisse Romande at sunrise, in the open air on the jetty.

Free concerts on summer evenings, programming of jazz/electronic/classical music.

Winter bathing (“brave bathers”), in organised groups, with sauna and plunge into the icy lake.

When to visit

The site is open year-round, free of charge. The best times:

Summer (June-August): beach atmosphere, swimming, concerts, crowded but pleasant.

Autumn and spring: very quiet, soft light on the lake, ideal for a stroll.

Winter: sauna and icy swimming, a Nordic experience at the heart of Geneva.

Planning a stay in Geneva

AEC Collection selects and represents quality apartments in Geneva and French-speaking Switzerland. The Bains des Pâquis are within walking distance of any central accommodation on the right bank, and remain an essential stop to include even for a short stay.