NOT YOUR TYPICAL LANDMARKS: GENEVA'S WATER TOWERS

You’ve probably driven past them without a second glance—those tall, quiet structures rising above fields. Yet across the Canton of Geneva, water towers (châteaux d’eau) play a vital role behind the scenes, regulating pressure, storing reserves, and keeping water flowing reliably to homes and communities.

Beyond their practical function, these towers are also striking landmarks in their own right, often visible from afar and set within open landscapes.

Below are four water towers which are dotted around the canton, and which are surprisingly fascinating to observe as you explore the countryside.

CHANCY-POUGNY WATER TOWER

Year constructed: 1924
Located near the Rhône River and the Chancy-Pougny hydroelectric site, this is one of the canton’s most architecturally significant water towers. Designed by Swiss engineer Robert Maillart, a pioneer of reinforced concrete, it combines structural efficiency with a surprising sense of elegance.
More than just a water tower, it was built to cool the turbines of the adjacent hydroelectric dam, illustrating the close link between hydropower and water distribution in the early 20th century. Its use of reinforced concrete—still an innovative material at the time—marks it as a forward-thinking piece of engineering.

While you’re there…
You could enjoy a peaceful walk along the banks of the River Laire.
Just nearby, you can also visit Border Marker No. 1, the westernmost point of Switzerland.
Or have a meal at the Café de la Place in Chancy village, where you can enjoy simple, homemade cuisine in a friendly, authentic village setting.
For more ideas and suggestions, visit the Things to do, see and discover in Chancy page.

COLLEX-BOSSY WATER TOWER

Year constructed: 1966
The Collex-Bossy water tower reflects a more modern, utilitarian approach to infrastructure design.
Constructed entirely from concrete, it prioritises function over form, in line with post-war engineering trends. Still in active service, it represents the expansion of Geneva’s suburban water network during a period of rapid population growth.

While you’re there…
Why not stop for lunch at the charming Auberge de Collex-Bossy.
Or enjoy a peaceful picnic at the “Fuste” log cabin by the banks of the Versoix River.
You could also take a leisurely stroll along the Collex canal, a quiet and scenic route through the countryside.
For more ideas and suggestions, visit the Things to see, do and discover in Collex-Bossy page.

JUSSY WATER TOWER

Year constructed: 1911
Rising prominently above the surrounding landscape, the Jussy water tower is both functional and visually striking.
At around 25 metres tall with a circumference of 53 metres, it remains an impressive structure to this day. Still operated by Services Industriels de Genève (SIG), it continues to regulate water pressure in the network—an enduring example of the longevity of early 20th-century infrastructure.

While you’re there…
Take a little time to explore the charming little village of Jussy.
Settle in for lunch on the sunny terrace at Chez Martine, to enjoy seasonal dishes in a relaxed atmosphere.
Or head out for a gentle walk through the Arales nature reserve, a protected area rich in birdlife and native flora.
For more ideas andsuggestions, be sure to visit the Things to do, see and discover in Jussy page.

LANDECY WATER TOWER

Year constructed: 1901
Set in the rural commune of Bardonnex, the Landecy water tower dates from a pivotal moment when local communities began moving away from wells and springs toward centralized water systems.
Built to stabilise water pressure, it supported both households and agricultural activity, particularly during dry periods. The tower reflects a quiet but transformative shift in daily life, bringing greater reliability and resilience to the countryside.

While you’re there…
Pause for a drink on the terrace of Café de la Comète, and soak up the village ambience.
Head to the hamlet of Compesières to discover the panoramic orientation table where you can take in sweeping views and try to identify the peaks of the Jura mountains, and then walk through the vineyards around Bardonnex.
For more ideas and suggestions, be sure to visit the Things to do, see and discover in Bardonnex page.

Tips for visiting the water towers:

Best explored by bike or on foot: All of these water towers are located in rural areas, therefore reaching them by bike or on foot gives you the flexibility to move around at your own pace and discover other corners of the countryside along the way.

Bring a camera: These structures are surprisingly photogenic, especially against vineyards, framed by open fields, or set against wide skies, they offer striking compositions—especially in the soft light of early morning or late afternoon.

Respect access and surroundings: These water towers not open to the public, so they can only be viewed from outside. Be mindful of private property and agricultural land, and stick to marked paths and public roads.

Beyond the usual landmarksWhile these water towers may not be traditional tourist attractions, exploring these sites offers a refreshing way to experience the Geneva region beyond the usual landmarks.

Are you planning on visiting these water towers or want more ideas like this? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates, inspiration, and ideas for your next outing, and to leave your comments and share your experience with us. We’d love to hear about it!

Article date: 8 April 2026