Heritage
Heritage trail
The history of Divonne-les-Bains can be divided into three periods.
The first, from the Middle Ages to the 19th century, saw the town develop in sync with the pace of agricultural and craft life.
The opening of the hydrotherapy centre in 1849 totally changed the face of Divonne-les-Bains.
The European bourgeoisie and aristocracy would spend a few months every year in the town to enjoy its health-giving cures.
All the infrastructure needed to cater for this demanding clientèle had to be built.
The Second World War seriously undermined the spa business.
However, after 1945, a visionary man, Marcel Anthonioz, who became mayor and then a member of parliament, gave the town a new lease of life with the opening of a new casino.
This walk through the key sites in Divonne-les-Bains will give you the chance to learn more about the history of hydrotherapy.
This tour is in addition to a visit to the springs.
The tourist office and the municipal team have created this heritage trail to give you the chance to explore the remarkable heritage of our beautiful spa town and its hidden treasures during a two-hour stroll.
This tour is the result of a collaboration between the cultural department and heritage associations. Starting from the square in front of the tourist office, you can walk along the River Divonne or through the narrow streets to get a feel for the soul of Divonne-les-Bains and the places that have made its history and reputation.
Enjoy the walk!
Gallo-Roman aqueduct
This was built in 45 BC to supply the new settlement of cavalrymen who were veterans of Julius Caesar's armies. It was used to bring water from Divonne's many springs to Novio Dunon, which would later become Nyon.
A section remains in the heart of Divonne. With its flat-bottomed, 90 cm-wide conduit, vertical walls and 80-90 cm-high arches, this aqueduct could supply the water needs of 25,000 people.
The lake
In 1960, the Town Council decided to dig a 45-hectare lake following a design by Jean Debaud. It was started in 1963 and completed in 1964. This new space would provide the town with a first-rate tourist attraction, complementing the existing offer.
A wide range of water sports can be practised on these waters, including windsurfing, canoeing, water-skiing and rowing. The yacht club, circular harbour and sandy beach are a must-see attraction. In addition, Divonne les Bains lake supplies an average of 140 litres of water per second to the Versoix river over 274 days a year.
