The day Lake Léman froze

The Rade, City of Geneva, Geneva
(Switzerland)

The Léman, one of the largest lakes in Western Europe, never freezes over completely; except for the coastal areas. In 1891, this was the case in Geneva following a bise (a very strong wind). The event was so rare that the inhabitants wished to witness it by crossing over the lake dry-shod. As for its celebrated fleet of steamships dating from the early 20th century; this has been preserved and is now one of the finest in the world. (C. Bertola)