Lake Geneva

Why we love it...

• Largest lake in the Alps
• Highest peaks in Switzerland including Matterhorn
• Variety of lakeside and mountainside towns plus sophisticated resorts

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 Excursions
Bookings for some of the following excursions can be made in resort by your local Swiss Travel Service representative. The following prices are based on travel from Montreux and will vary from other resorts. Information on the following excursions and bookings (where applicable) can be obtained in resort from your Swiss Travel Service Rep.

Golden Pass
Take the 'Panoramic Express' the scenic golden pass to the Villages of Chateau d'Oex, Gstadd, Lenk or Zweisimmen.

Chocolate train
Travel by nostalgic 'Pullman Express' via Gruyeres to the Nestlé chocolate factory. Return journey from Montreux costs CHF59 (with half fare card) and includes coffee and croissant on board and chocolate tasting at the Cailler-Nestlé factory (Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, Jun-Oct only).

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.

Rochers-de-Naye
Take the cogwheel train up from Montreux to 2045m to discover unforgettable views of Lake Geneva and the Alps. Enjoy the Alpine Flower Garden and Marmais.

France
Take the boat across to the French towns of Evian and Yvoire. Don't forget your passport.

Château Chillon
On the shores of Lake Geneva close to Montreux sits the castle which was immortalised by Byron.

Lausanne
Within easy reach by train or boat, check out the shopping possibilities in the old town and the stylish lakeside area of Ouchy.

Les Pléiades
Take the cogwheel railway up through vineyards to a panoramic viewpoint with well marked walking trails.