If you are fond of offbeat foreign destinations that give you a chance to discover the cultural and socio-economical side closely, then think beyond the obvious and explore the south-western Switzerland that borders France. While most tourists associate Switzerland with chocolates, cheese, and luxury watches, there are a lot of interesting small towns in the country that offer fairytale-like vistas and could be added to the Swiss itinerary for a comprehensive experience.
One such unique town in the Swiss-French part of the country is Montreux, which is located on the shores of beautiful Lake Geneva in the Canton of Vaud. The small town surrounded by vineyards and green Alpine range can be easily reached from Geneva via a short train ride. Apart from the scenic views, chalet inspired buildings and an exotic range of floral plantations by the lake promenade, this alpine town is also known for its unique microclimate. On a hot summer day, one can find locals and tourists taking a dip in the cold waters of Lake Geneva. Whereas, during the cold season the town is converted into a winter snow land with mountains and pine trees covered in white snow layers. In the month of December, a traditional Christmas market is organised by the lake promenade, which is quite popular among tourists and is known as one of the prettiest Christmas celebrations across Europe.
Chillon Castle
A walk around the lake
The town is a fine example of modernity and history that co-exists in harmony. Most vibrant buildings located on hilltops are accentuated by rose bushes and seasonal blooms that cover the entrance, exit gates, and balconies. The manicured gardens and old-style fountains across the lakeside convert into bustling hubs for local youngsters, who gather in the evening to chill by the water and head-bang on the latest French hip hop tracks that play loudly on their mobile speakers.
What to see around
One of the main highlights of the town is a bronze statue of Freddie Mercury facing the waterfront of Lake Geneva. If you keep walking from there towards the end of the lake, you will find the medieval Chillon Castle (Chateau de Chillon) built on an island. This fortress is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Europe and it situated in Canton Vaud, around 3 km from Montreux. As you move further up towards the famous Crans-Montana ski resorts, you’ll reach Bluche — a small Swiss village with a unique example of self-sustainability where students and staff of renowned hospitality college Les Roches global hospitality education work hand-in-hand with the local farmers and daily producers. The village campus is famous for its unique location at 1,200 meters of altitude facing the Alps in the Rhône valley, where the Swiss vineyards produce high quality and expensive Swiss wines. The closest city to this unique establishment is a small town called Sierre, which is easily accessible by bus and funicular.
Another noteworthy establishment in the Eastern part of Montreux is the Institut International de Glion, a luxury hospitality management institution, built on the site of the former Grand Hotel Bellevue. Glion’s main campus overlooks the city of Montreux and it is located strategically at the Glion-sur-Montreux, between Lake Geneva and the Swiss Alps. While this remarkable institution is known for its practical arts in culinary, it also has two functional fine-dining restaurants namely Le Bellevue and Fresh, established in 2018 and open for all tourists.
Freddie Mercury’s statue
Not to be missed
By the time you’ll absorb the beauty and culture of the city, you’ll be tempted to try out the delicious local food like Swiss cheese, sausages, crispy bacon, salami, dried beef, assortment of bread and fruit-based desserts paired with creamy ice creams available at small cafes and shops that lit up as the sun goes down. If you are in the mood for some fine dine with melodious music, don’t forget to try the Swiss specialties like Raclette (melted cheese) served with baked potatoes, fondue served with bread rolls, Swiss Meringue with double cream and delicious chocolate mousse and fresh fruits with nutty garnish.
