The commune of Chancy was first mentioned in 1260, it had 346 inhabitants in 1850, growing to 913 in 2000. Roman remains, including a tile factory and a castrum at Montagny, are found in the area. The counts of Geneva exercised seigneurial rights until 1260. After the Reformation in 1536, Chancy became part of Geneva. The town hall replaced the medieval church in 1905. A bridge replaced ferry transport in 1424 and was rebuilt in 1874.
Things to see, do and discover in the commune of Chancy:
HISTORIC BUILDINGS
Moulin RogetMoulin Roget (Roget Mill), powered by the Couchefatte stream, has been in operation since at least 1538. It was rebuilt in 1570 and again between 1885 and 1895 under the ownership of Louise Emma Revaclier, who modernized it with a 7-metre wheel and crushers. A dispute in 1892 over water loss led to its decline, and the mill ceased operations in the early 20th century. In 1920, it was bought for a dam project and later converted into a storage facility. Restoration in 2005 moved the streambed. Visits inside the building are restricted to societies, schools, associations, and public institutions. Location:Google Maps
Chancy TempleChancy Temple, built in its current form in 1840, reflects a neoclassical style with a white stone square bell tower and Tuscan pilasters framing its pedimented façades. Its history dates back to 1284, when the parish church was first mentioned. An 1871 extension added a meeting hall, while the area was historically linked to Saint-Victor Priory and Geneva Cathedral’s Chapter. Location:Google Maps
Photo: champagne.epg.ch
NATURE RESERVES
Vallon du Longet Nature Reserve
Shaped by the Longet stream, this peaceful wooded valley covers 16 hectares. It is rich biodiversity - an exceptional habitat for native wildlife and plant communities. Visitors can also discover traces of past human activity, including ancient transport routes and archaeological remains. Location:Google Maps
PARKS & PICNIC SPOTS
Parc à la Campagne Small park in the hamlet of Passeiry, located at the junction of two quiet roads. Nearest bus stop is 'Athenaz, Passeiry', 800m away. Location:Google Maps
Les Raclerets picnic area
Les Raclerets is a military zone and shooting range located in the Laire Valley. Two separate picnic areas are available here and located alongside the River Laire. It is forbidden to enter the area during shooting events or when occupied by the military or other approved users. Refer to the shooting notices posted at the entrance of the site or check the dateson the website. Location:Google Maps
POINTS OF INTEREST
Borne Frontière No.1
Border marker No. 1, dating from 1816, marks the westernmost point of Switzerland. It features the coat of arms of Geneva alongside that of the Kingdom of Piedmont-Sardinia, depicted as an eagle with outstretched wings. It is the first of the 6,638 markers that run along the Swiss border. Location:Google Maps
Suspended footbridge
This elegant 45-metre-long cable-stayed wooden footbridge in Chancy was fully renovated in 2021. It spans the Longet stream, located 10 metres below, and offers a scenic and functional crossing in harmony with the natural surroundings. Location:Google Maps
RESTAURANTS
Café de la Place ChancyIndulge in refined, homemade cuisine crafted with fresh, mostly local ingredients. Pair your meal with a carefully curated selection of 100% Geneva wines. The restaurant boasts two stunning terraces, set in a truly picturesque environment. Website:LinkLocation:Google Maps
Le Petit Café
Café, tea room and small restaurant, Le Petit Café includes a bakery supplied with fresh pastries each morning, a grocery featuring artisan local products and regional wines, and a village post service. The café serves seasonal homemade dishes using local ingredients and hosts regular brunches, children's workshops, wine tastings and other community events. Website:LinkLocation:Google Maps
WATER SPORTS
Opikanoa canoe rentalsOpikanoa offers canoe rentals starting from Chancy. Experienced guides, who know the region perfectly, accompany all activities. Activities include twilight descents where you can enjoy a delicious fondue afterwards, morning brunches in the enchanting early hours for nature lovers, and weekends on other rivers near Geneva with bivouacs by the water ensuring a complete escape. Opikanoa has a fleet of six unsinkable tandem canoes suitable for all types of users, four open tandem canoes, two giant 10-person canoes, and six inflatable kayaks. Reservations are required for all activities. Website:LinkLocation:Google Maps