Lake Geneva

Why we love it...

• Largest lake in the Alps
• Variety of lakeside and mountainside towns plus sophisticated resorts
• The picturesque Lavaux vineyards

It's perfect for...

• Winetasting
• A wide choice of sports and activities
• Boat trips on the lake

The area around the northern shore of Lake Geneva is known as the "Swiss Riviera," and is truly beautiful part of Switzerland. The gentle rolling hills which rise from the waters of the lake are covered with neat terraced vineyards and dotted with picturesque little villages. From the higher vantage points, you can see the distant peaks of the Bernese Alps, and the dramatic views of the French Alps dominated by Mont Blanc, across the lake. The Lake Geneva Region has one of the sunniest and mildest climates in Switzerland, as it is sheltered by Rochers de Naye which stretches up behind Montreux "The Pearl of the Swiss Riviera" to a height of 2045m. Lake steamers and boats provide transport around the lake and the opportunity to travel in style and enjoy the superb scenery in a relaxed atmosphere. Please note: the service is significantly reduced up until the beginning of June and after mid September.

Lake Geneva Top Highlights

Lavaux Vineyard Terraces
Explore the beautiful hillside vineyards that span over 800 hectares and make up Switzerland's wine growing region, set between Lausanne and Montreux. Starting at medieval St Saphorin trails meander through 11km of countryside to Lutry. You can walk this route in around three and a half hours and what a pleasure it is stopping and sampling a glass of Chasselas wine from one of the many wine cellars. The area was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007 and is a real feast for the senses. You can get one of the two rubber wheeled trains, the Lavaux Express or Lavaux Panormaic if you prefer not to walk.

Chateau Chillon
Set on a rocky islet on the shores of Lake Geneva close to Montreux sits the Chillon castle that was immortalised by Byron. Take a tour of this 1000 year old architectural jewel to see why it has inspired artists and writers.

On the trail of Hemingway
Many famous personalities from the past have been seduced by the charm of this area, including Rousseau, Byron, Noel Coward, Charlie Chaplin, Freddie Mercury, Graham Greene and Stravinsky.Queen's Freddy mercury did much of his recording in Montreux, whilst Smoke on the Water by Deep Purple was inspired by Lake Geneva.

Museums
There are many museums between Montreux and Vevey, including a small photography museum and the food museum in Vevey. Lausanne also has a large number of museums, most notably the excellent Olympic museum. The Olympic Committee is based in Lausanne and the history of the games is well documented.