The ferries that criss cross the lake are now running on their full summer season schedule and there are many sailings that go over from Nyon to Yvoire in France (just a 20 minute ride away). So its perfectly possible to leave Nyon when the sun is setting, go over to Yvoire for dinner and then return for dessert or "digestif" in Nyon.
Leaving Nyon as the sun goes down
The ferry first makes a *stop at the tiny, but lovely village of Nernier.
Then it approaches Yvoire
If you haven't been to Yvoire it is well worth the trip as it is a very pretty mediaeval village. It has an abundance of flowers that decorate its streets, hanging baskets galore and is a member of the association "The most beautiful villages of France".
In the village you will find small individual shops, art galleries and plenty of restaurants. There is also the "Garden of Five Senses ", and there are guided tours of the village on certain days in July and August.
The main pedestriansed road leading from the port to the centre of the village is steep, but it's worth the hike.
Alternatively instead of going for dinner, you can go for a long leisurely lunch and then burn off some of the calories by walking to Nernier, the next village, and then take the return ferry back to Nyon.
Returning to Nyon at night
Please note.
Yvoire gets very busy during the day, especially on summer weekends, so if you can, go midweek.Remember to take your passport when you board the ferry. Lac Léman (Lake Geneva) does have a recognised Swiss/French border in the middle of the lake !
*Not all boats stop in Nernier on every outbound or return trip, so check on the CGN website. There is an English language version but the timetable itself is a PDF file under "horaire été."