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

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

The history of Bains des Pâquis unfolds in three key moments:

1872: creation of the first wooden baths, then expanded on stilts in 1889.

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 area of 6500m², divided equally into two spaces for men and women (progressive for its time).

25 September 1988: Geneva referendum in which 72% of voters opposed the municipal demolition project, thereby saving the Bains and launching their renovation.

The AUBP: the association that manages the place

In 1987, just before the referendum, the Association of Users of Bains des Pâquis (AUBP) was established. Since their salvation, it has managed the activities and operation of the site, under concession from the City of Geneva. The café, saunas, summer concerts and Aubes musicales (sunrise concerts) are all initiatives of the association.

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

What you find there today

The site offers:

Public beach on the pier, modest entrance fee in summer, free outside the season, frequented year-round.

Swimming in the harbour, water tested regularly, in summer as in winter (swimming for the brave in glacial water in January).

Café des Bains des Pâquis, affordable refreshments (modest prices for Geneva), terrace in season, relaxed and mixed atmosphere.

Sauna and hammam in the cold season, affordable, to be enjoyed with a plunge into the glacial lake (the “Genevan Finnish experience”).

Massages and treatments at reasonable prices, offered on the pier itself.

All set within a unique architectural setting: Bauhaus concrete architecture in contrast to 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 constitutes its principal appeal.

For a visitor to Geneva, 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.

The Aubes musicales and other events

Several iconic events punctuate the year:

The Aubes musicales in summer: free concerts at 6am on the pier, organised by the users’ association, with programming ranging from classical to jazz and electronic.

The winter bathing (“brave swimmers’ baths”), in organised groups, with sauna and plunge into the glacial lake.

When to visit

The site is open year-round, for a modest fee. The best times:

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

Autumn and spring: very quiet, soft light over the harbour, ideal for a walk.

Winter: sauna and glacial swimming, Nordic experience in the heart of Geneva.

Planning a stay in Geneva

AEC Collection selects and represents premium apartments in Geneva and Romandy. The Bains des Pâquis are accessible on foot from any central accommodation on the right bank, and remain an essential stop to include even for a short stay.