Rives Port

This former fishing village has evolved to become a major site in Thonon. With its marina and activities, you can really feel at home in Port de Rives.

History of Port de Rives in Thonon-les-Bains

Located below the town centre, Port de Rives runs along the Lake Geneva coastline all the way to the famous Château de Ripaille, once used as one of the residences of the Dukes of Savoy. The port was originally home to fishermen who lived in small houses separated by narrow streets. The site gradually began to expand following the annexation of Savoy by France in 1860 and the emergence of balneology. The main road was built along with the marina, which is now equipped with 800 mooring rings. With the rising popularity of this area, numerous dwellings were constructed facing the lake. Since then, many hotels at the foot of Place du 16 Août 1944 have become residential buildings.

A tourist attraction in Thonon

The Port de Rives area has been constantly enhanced by successive town officials, consolidating its appeal to tourists who enjoy strolling along the quays, savouring a bite to eat or drink at the terrace cafés shaded by plane trees, or trying their hand at the nautical activities on offer. Visitors can discover the Lake and Fishing Eco-museum and the fishing village with its pastel-coloured houses, or explore the natural spaces that open up after crossing the vineyards surrounding the Château de Ripaille or heading to Châtaigneraie beach with its wooded area open to all. To the west, the coastal path is still accessible today and affords stunning views of the lake. The nautical centre designed by renowned architect Maurice Novarina is a great place for relaxation and recreational activities. And for the more discerning palates, the Michelin-starred restaurant run by Chef Raphaël Vionnet is open all year round.

Life in Port de Rives: an accessible site

The neighbourhood's quiet atmosphere and charm and some of the undeniable assets of the Thonon coastline. Yet all this with easy access to the urban centre and its community and government services and shops. The town centre is just a few minutes' walk from the port via the pedestrian paths or the funicular that takes you to one of the magnificent 19th century belvederes. The area also provides easy access to the other bank of Lake Geneva thanks to the CGN (compagnie générale de navigation) boats that make the crossing to Lausanne several times a day. The town council is also studying plans for the construction of a large underground car park that facilitate car traffic along the coastline.