Winds of nature, winds of leisure

Port Choiseul, City of Versoix, Geneva
(Switzerland)

Its variety of winds makes Lake Léman very suitable for sailing. Around 1900, there were some 150 sailing boats; nowadays there are more than 20,000 of them. The development of leisure pursuits during the 20th century has had a marked effect on the coastal areas. It is thought that only 3% of the lakeshore still remains in its natural state. It is now hoped to preserve the natural surroundings that favor biodiversity, whilst retaining the human quality of life. The Léman is a highly favored pleasure area (bathing, sailing, diving and fishing) for a million lakeside residents. (C. Bertola)