Montreux summer holidays

Holidays in Montreux

Freddie Mercury got it in one: “If you want peace of mind, come to Montreux”. The Jazz Festival put this town on the map - bringing Freddie and other big names like Pink Floyd and Miles Davis to Lake Geneva’s Swiss shores. There’s plenty more on the menu, from the restaurants (with 20 listed in the Michelin and Gault Millau guides) to the clubs (which make up some of the best nightlife in Switzerland). Fill your days touring the local vineyards, relaxing in the spas, or simply strolling along the promenade.

Highlights: • Warm climate • UNESCO Lavaux vineyard terraces • 12th century Chillon Castle

Montreux Walking

The promenade that stretches along to Vevey and the Chillon castle is just begging for a gentle stroll. It’s long and lined with flowers and you’ve got stunning Lake Geneva beside you – what could be better! If you prefer to work up a bit of a sweat, have a go at one of the more testing hikes. Head to Aigle from Vevey - it’s roughly 27km so can take a while, but you pass through some fabulous countryside, filled with great photo ops! Our favourite hike that finishes at Montreux is one that starts at Rochers de Naye (marmot country!); it passes along a steep ridge and sandstone cliff trail for 13km, so you’ll work up an appetite for those lakeside restaurants.

Montreux Cycling

The mild climate makes this a prime location for some cycling, whether you fancy pottering around the Lavaux Riviera or sampling the nearest stages of the national cycle routes. The town’s on the Rhone route, marking the link from stage 5 to 6 which means more than 40km of sign-posted trail past lowlands, reeds and vineyards in each direction. It’s also the start point of the Lakes route, which begins with a serene 42km stretch to Bulle through green fields echoing with cowbells. You’ll pass Gruyere, the home of the famous cheese and Châtel-Saint-Denis with its heritage-listed church.

Adrenaline-junkies will love the 28km MTB route between Les Paccots and the lake. It’s technically and physically demanding; the section coming into Montreux is an outstanding 1200m downhill drop. There’s a shorter route just north of the town at Les Pleiads – check out the carnivorous plants in the swamp!