Author: ArmandaG

In this Geneva self guided walking tour:

Geneva Self Guided Walking Tour by Lake Geneva Promenade

You know what an oasis is, right?

You navigate through busy streets of Geneva—commuters in a hurry, business calls buzzing, the occasional honk of a car. A typical city scene. But then, just ahead, between buildings, a vast expanse of water appears—so wide it could be the sea. Here lies Geneva’s tranquil escape, a true oasis of peace amid the city’s pace.

Everyone raves about Lake Geneva’s crystal-clear blue waters, but in truth, they shift through countless shades, reflecting the mood of the sky. On bright days, the lake sparkles in transparent blues, revealing ripples on the sandy bottom. When clouds gather and mist envelops the distant mountains, the water of lake Geneva turns deep and mysterious.

If the budget allows for the perfect lakeside experience, you can enjoy a coffee at one of the cafés along the promenade, watching elegant white sailboats drift by. But even without the splurge, a leisurely walk along the waterfront is just as delightful.

Will Jet d’Eau Be On?

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Yes, you heard that right—Geneva’s most famous attraction, the Jet d’Eau fountain, isn’t always running.

One evening, you might marvel at its majestic 140-meter spray piercing the sky, only to return the next day and find it absent due to weather conditions. Without it, Lake Geneva feels oddly incomplete. The fountain is an iconic landmark, visible from almost anywhere in the city—when it’s gone, something just doesn’t feel right.

But when it’s on, it’s truly breathtaking. As with all grand sights, it’s best admired from a distance. Up close, you might end up with a sore neck from looking straight up—or an unexpected shower if the wind shifts your way!

Geneva’s Beaches: Dip Your Toes in the Crystal-Clear Water

On a warm day, the lake’s crystal-clear waters are simply irresistible. The temptation to reach out and touch it—to see if it feels any different than the water from your tap—is real.

When the lake syringes are calling to you, Geneva offers several lakefront spots for a refreshing dip. The most popular is Bains des Paquis, famous not only for its swimming area but also for its café, where you can enjoy a delicious cheese fondue.

Alternatively, you can head to Plage des Eaux-Vives , a relaxing shoreline on the opposite bank. This Geneva attraction is conveniently located on the way to our next stop.

But a word of caution: Geneva’s beaches aren’t lined with soft sand, but rather with small stones—perfect for a natural “foot massage.” The exception is Baby Plage, a tiny sandy strip that tends to get crowded on warm summer days.

While it’s not the easiest spot to lay your picnic blanket, I have to admit, the thousands of little gray rocks along the shore suit Lake Geneva perfectly, blending beautifully with its natural color palette.

Returning in Style – A Ride on Geneva’s Water Tram

We’ve walked a considerable distance by Lake Geneva. But don’t worry, you won’t have to walk back the same way. Instead, we’ll be enjoying the city views from a fresh perspective.

On Lake Geneva, you have two types of boats to choose from – the large, luxurious cruise ships that offer scenic trips for an additional fee, and the smaller boats that are part of the city’s public transport system. The best part? You can use these small water trams with a public transportation day pass, valid for all zones.

So, let’s hop on one at the M3 stop and enjoy the ride across the lake, soaking in the views through the large windows.

I hope you enjoyed the lake as much as I did. Now, depending on how much energy yoy have we can take a break or jump right into the 2nd part of our Geneva self guided walking tour. You could also split this into 2 days.

Geneva Self Guided Walking Tour in Geneva Old Town

A Countdown to… What?

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As you wander through the streets of Geneva, you’ll eventually come across a grand building, adorned with striking sculptures. A digital clock, glowing in red, ticks down, second by second.

What is it counting down to?

The answer: the moment the Sun will explode.

If that doesn’t catch your attention, here’s another unsettling detail—inside the building, a small bomb is set to explode at precisely the same moment. Whaaat?

It’s a chilling thought. Maybe it’s best to keep moving to the next Geneva attraction.

Giant Flags and Storybook Streets of Geneva Old Town

Aptuvenā atrašanās vieta

How do you know you’ve arrived in Geneva’s Old Town? Look for its charming historical fountains, ancient buildings, and winding cobblestone streets.

One highlight of Geneva Old Town is the Street of Giant Flags—an avenue lined with massive Swiss and Geneva flags that billow grandly overhead. Their size gives the street a striking, photogenic quality.

Geneva’s Town Hall (Hôtel de Ville)

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On one of the façades, right beneath three fluttering flags, you notice a set of gates that open to reveal a charming courtyard. Everything about the scene suggests this is a public space—so let’s step inside and take a closer look.

The courtyard is framed by elegant, light-colored buildings, their majestic colonnades and arches stretching across several levels. At the very heart of the courtyard stands a stone goblet. The architecture here is truly breathtaking… But do you know where we’ve ended up?

It turns out we’ve wandered into the inner courtyard of the Geneva Town Hall—a site not only visually stunning but also historically significant. It was here, in one of the building’s rooms, that the first Geneva Convention was adopted in 1864.

The Atmosphere of Geneva Old Town is Enriched by the Cannons of the Arsenal

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The charm of the Old Town is further heightened by the cannons of the Geneva Arsenal.

If the ancient buildings alone don’t transport you through time, add to that a few historic cannons, tucked away in the shadows behind the columns of the Geneva old Arsenal.

Be sure to also notice the mosaics on the rear wall—each one depicting significant moments in Geneva’s history. Are your history skills sharp enough to decipher the hidden stories in these images? I have no idea what’s happening here.

The Shortcut to Geneva Catedral – Passage des degres de poules

Look for a small archway in one of the walls, leading to a narrow, dimly lit alley with stairs climbing upward. This is the Passage des Degrés de Poules, dating back to the 16th century.

Stairs like these often gain fame thanks to the notable figures who’ve climbed them, and this one is no exception. John Calvin himself once walked these steps from the cathedral to the college. And, since this was also the quickest route from the courthouse to the prison, many prisoners ascended these stairs after their trials, adding a slightly darker aura to the place.

Once we reach the top, before heading to the cathedral, take a moment to pause at the nearby viewpoint beneath the ancient trees. From here, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking view of the city’s rooftops.

St. Pierre Cathedral in Geneva

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The sharp, greenish tower of St Pierre cathedral, much like the Jet d’Eau, is visible from afar. So, even if the fountain isn’t running, you’ve got at least one more landmark to guide you through Geneva streets.

But it’s only when you get up close that the true grandeur of the cathedral becomes apparent. It almost looks as though it were assembled from different Lego sets—each section slightly different from the next.

Take a moment to admire the towering columns, the massive wooden doors, and the delicate carvings on the windows. Did you notice that the section of the roof near the doors is painted blue? Let’s speculate for a moment—could it have something to do with the sky?

Today we are not exploring the inside, but if you purchase a ticket, you’ll have the chance to check out the church’s interior and even climb the tower, where you’ll be treated to a spectacular view of the city.

Let’s Wrap up Our Geneva Self Guided Walking tour by Playing Some Chess in Parc des Bastions?

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Since we’re already exploring religious architecture, let’s head over to Parc des Bastions, home to the Wall of the Reformation. As the name suggests, the wall features sculptures depicting key figures and events of the Reformation.

For those less familiar with the topic, don’t worry—Parc des Bastions offers something for everyone. You can have some fun with the giant chess or checkers pieces. Look, one of the kings has already been knocked over! Checkmate.

What Else to See in Geneva?

Although I don’t have time to visit it again during this trip to Geneva, if you have more time and energy, I definitely want to mention one more must-see Geneva attraction: the Broken chair,  located opposite the United Nations headquarters.

Why? Because the Broken Chair (which, by the way, is massive) sends a powerful message of protest against landmines.

The UN headquarters (which, unless you’re on a guided tour, you can only see through the fence) is one of those buildings that’s worth checking out too, if only to say you’ve seen such an important institution with your own eyes. Then again, the same could be said for many of Geneva’s iconic buildings…

And that wraps up our Geneva self guided walking tour! I hope you get a chance to experience the tranquility of Lake Geneva and soak in the charm of the Geneva Old Town. May this list of things to see in Geneva inspire you to plan your own unforgettable trip to Geneva, Switzerland!

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Montreux, Switzerland

Broc, Switzerland

Petit Montrond, France

Other hikes in France: Lac du Lauvitel, Mont Baron & Mont Veyrier hike

Hiking Le Petit Montrond in France:

Driving Above the Clouds

It’s lightly drizzling on the way to Petit Montrond. To some, this might seem like a lost cause, but we remain hopeful.

We’ll be driving most of the way up the mountain, which, in this foggy and rainy weather, adds a nerve-wracking thrill. The visibility is poor, and it’s hard to see what’s ahead.

Then, for a brief moment, the fog lifts, revealing a beautiful panoramic view of the city. “If we can find a safe spot, let’s stop and enjoy the view, maybe snap a photo!” I think to myself.

But, of course, the fog has other plans. As we continue driving upward, everything gets enveloped in thick white mist again. When we finally find a place to pull over, the panoramic view is gone. Our hopes of seeing anything from the top of Petit Montrond are rapidly fading. Maybe this whole journey will be in vain.

Soon, we reach a point where we can’t drive any further and are forced to park the car.

There’s no sun, and a cold wind bites through. I realize I haven’t learned my lesson from past trips to the Tatras – I completely forgot how much colder it gets in the mountains. So, take it from me: dress warmly when hiking in the mountains!

But there’s a silver lining – at least it’s not raining anymore. We’ve driven above the rain clouds (something that can sometimes happen in the mountains). As we approach the viewing platform at the base of the Petit Montrond hiking trail, we catch sight of the trees, fields, and roads below. It’s not the sweeping victory we’d hoped for, but it’s definitely not a total loss.

Now, let’s enjoy the view from the platform and head back home, shall we? No, not yet. This is just the beginning. We’re about to climb even higher.

Before We Begin – A Bit About Petit Montrond Hike in France

Petit Montrond is actually a ski resort – you can tell by the closed cafes, vacant ski rental spots, and the dormant ski lifts that contribute to the eerie, ghost-town vibe during the off-season. With fog swirling around us, we’re among the few brave souls daring to hike Petit Montrond today.

It’s important to note that during the winter months, this mountain is exclusively for skiers. The Petit Montrond hiking trail only opens once the snow has melted. The round trip up and down the mountain takes about an hour, depending on your pace, and I’d say it’s a relatively easy hike. So, with that in mind, let’s get started and begin our Petit Montrond hike!

Get ready, Get set! Hiking Petit Montrond

Although the weather is far from perfect, it adds to the beauty of the Le Petit Montrond landscape, intensifying the colors and creating an atmosphere straight out of a vampire movie – dark, romantic, misty, and mysterious.

The trail is easy to navigate, meandering through winding paths and steps. It’s a far cry from Mont Saleve, where the dusty, slippery slopes had us clinging to railings to avoid sliding down.

In early May, to add a bit of fun to the Petit Montrond hike, you can turn it into a game – who can spot the last traces of snow? Pro tip: focus on the shaded areas, as the snow there tends to melt much more slowly.

The Views From Top of the Petit Montrond

Reaching the summit always feels like a small victory. And while the fog still lingers, the experience is rewarding in its own way. Usually, people climb Petit Montrond to get an incredible view of Mont Blanc, but today, it seems like the mountain is keeping that secret to itself.

It’s a little funny, but I can’t complain. The fact that we’ve avoided the rain is a win in itself. And even though the panoramic views of the misty trees and smaller mountains are obscured by fog, they are still beautiful in their own eerie way.

Thoughts?

This hiking experience was different – it was so much easier than the usual exhausting 5–8-hour treks I’m used to. Don’t get me wrong – those long climbs are totally worth it, but I never imagined that such a short and easy hike could reward me with such beautiful views. So, my friends, if you’re new to mountain hiking, Petit Montrond is the perfect option for you.

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Montreux, Switzerland

Geneva, Switzerland

Broc, Switzerland itinerary:

Start Your Broc Switzerland Travel Itinerary with Swiss Chocolate at Cailler

The day has barely started, and already I’m faced with a tough choice: Swiss cheese or chocolate? It’s a real dilemma!

Since we all know chocolate is the key to happiness, let’s head straight to the Cailler chocolate factory in Broc, Switzerland.

Location

You have to purchase entrance ticket – check prices and working hours.

Fortunately, late April isn’t considered tourist season in Switzerland, so we can grab our tickets on-site. However, entry is strictly by the schedule, so we have to wait impatiently by the gate for our turn. It feels just like waiting in line to see Santa Claus when you were a child.

Finally, when our time arrives, we’re handed an audio guide, and the sweetest chapter of our Broc travel itinerary can begin.

Trapped in The Time Machine at Cailler Chocolate Factory in Broc

It all begins with a time machine—a sensory journey filled with sound, light, and visual effects that takes you from the dark jungles of an Aztec village to retro chocolate commercials on old televisions.

But there’s a catch—once the door closes behind you, you’re trapped in the chocolate story. You’ll only move on to the next room once the time machine unlocks the door.

But hey, now you know that, in ancient times, a cup of hot chocolate was almost considered a love potion.

The Magical Ingredient of Swiss Chocolate

Once you return to the present, your freedom is restored. Now, you can learn about the chocolate ingredients at your own pace.

In the next room of the Swiss Chocolate factory, there are several large containers—one holds cocoa beans. You can smell them, and yes, they truly smell like chocolate! You can also touch them. And if you’re not squeamish about eating from a communal container where everyone helps themselves, you can even taste the beans. I, however, am still haunted by the memories of the recent pandemic, so I didn’t risk it. But my travel companions said the beans didn’t taste much like chocolate at all.

Other containers hold vanilla and nuts. You can smell those too. But what really catches your attention are large, white, shapeless blocks. What are they?

You probably can’t taste them. They don’t look too appetizing anyways. But you can touch them. They feel slightly slippery, almost greasy. Quite interesting.

Finally, the audio guide of Cailler chocolate factory solves the mystery—they’re cocoa butter!

Am I the only one who feels that these fatty blocks somehow dampen the desire to eat chocolate? But just for a moment.

Meet Chocolate Making Robot

Unfortunately, it’s not possible to go on a tour of the Callier factory itself. They have to maintain sanitary conditions during the production process. But don’t be too disappointed—behind a glass wall, there’s a chocolate-making machine on display. As you watch, you can see a large block of chocolate being transformed into small strips, which are then cut and drizzled with even more chocolate. Yum!

Next, a robotic arm comes into play, moving lightning-fast to transfer the new chocolate treats from one line to another, where they are wrapped up. And in the end, you can even taste these delicious Swiss chocolates.

But don’t worry, robots haven’t completely taken over the world just yet. Behind the counter, two professionals demonstrate how to make chocolate figurines by hand.

Dreams Come True in Broc, Switzerland: Eat as Much Chocolate as You Can

TNow we know how chocolate is made. But what would a visit to a chocolate factory be without a tasting? That would be quite a disappointment.

But there’s no need to be sad because, at the end of the tour, you get the chance to fulfill your childhood dream—you can eat as much chocolate as you can handle! Just don’t try to leave with pockets full of it. It’s for eating on-site only.

That was one tasty experience! And now—it’s time to put all that sugar energy to good use and go for a nice walk. So let’s head to the next tourist attraction in Brock, Switzerland.

2nd Stop of Our Broc Travel Itinerary: The Wonderland of Gorges de la Jogne

If I’m not mistaken, Alice in Wonderland falls through a rabbit hole. We, on the other hand, will enter a wonderland hidden in Broc, Switzerland, through a mountain tunnel.

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But let’s not rush ahead! I want to give you the chance to enjoy the adventure from the very beginning. So, let’s park the car by the roadside and head down the forest path.

The forest might seem like any other, but listen carefully! What do you hear?

That’s the sound of the first waterfall.

Kickstarting Your Gorges de la Jogne Adventure in Broc: The Waterfall

On this trail, there are so many waterfalls that you’ll need to give them nicknames to tell them apart. Let’s call this one the “high waterfall with two levels,” in honor of the point where the water splits. It may not be Niagara, but for a Latvian used to waterfalls that tend to stretch out more in width than height, this one is quite impressive.

So, don’t mind me snapping 100 pictures – we’ll continue on our way towards Gorges de la Jogne. While many other trails might feature a waterfall as the final destination or main highlight, here, it’s just the beginning.

Stone Portal to Another World in Gorges de la Jogne

After a short while, you’ll find yourself facing a rocky tunnel – the mouth of a cave etched into the stone wall. Shall we risk it? Of course! Let’s go inside.

It’s dark inside the tunnel. Can you hear the water dripping? Small streams trickle from the cave walls, forming little puddles on the ground. So, watch your step! I’ve already soaked my sneakers.

But when you emerge on the other side, you’ll realize this was a portal, and you’ve arrived in a wonderland – a valley nestled between towering rock walls. The cliffs are massive, and below you, an unbelievably blue river flows.

If only we could lock this view of Gorges de la Jogne in our memories forever!

The Valley of Gorges de la Jogne is So Breathtaking You could Film Fantasy Movies Here

We could stand here and stare at this beauty forever, but let’s not block the way for others – in Gorges de la Jogne there’s still more to see!

The crystal-clear river accompanies us along the entire walk. It’s full of massive stones, many of which seem to have broken off from the grand rock walls ages ago. Maybe that’s exactly what happened? But the little moss-covered rocks look like troll spines.

A little further along the Gorges de la Jogne trail, we come across the next waterfall. This time, it looks like a stone wall had been built across the river, and the waterfall has carved a hole right through it. Let’s call this one the “small flat waterfall.”

The terrain in Gorges de la Jogne trail is varied – you’ll need to conquer stones, bridges, and even some stairs. But it’s totally worth it, as here stands the next waterfall. This one has a network of tiny streams, dividing the water into countless directions. And along the way, you’ll also encounter its alter ego – a waterfall flowing straight down the rock wall.

Perhaps this whole story should be called The Fifty Shades of Waterfalls in Brock, Switzerland?

It probably doesn’t surprise you anymore, but on this trail, there’s yet another waterfall that flows from a small stream out of a dark cave in the rock wall…

Alright, as beautiful as it all is, let’s stop talking about waterfalls now.

Wrapping Up Your Gorges de la Jogne Adventure: The Dam

Time has flown by unnoticed, and we’ve reached the end of the Gorges de la Jogne trail, where a surprise awaits by the lake – a massive, round dam. You can admire it or even walk across it, though, if you’ve seen any horror movies about dams, you might hesitate.

The way back is along the same trail we came. But the Gorges de la Jogne path is so beautiful that it doesn’t feel disappointing. And human memory is so short! For example, I had already forgotten about that stone wall whose jagged surface looks as sharp as razors, ready to slice through a finger.

What’s next? I think it will be very hard to beat the otherworldly beauty of Gorges de la Jogne, but we have one more tourist attraction in Broc, Switzerland to visit.

End Your Trip to Broc, Switzerland with a Castle on a Hill: Château de Gruyères

As we were searching for the chocolate factory in Broc, our attention was caught by the Château de Gruyères castle shrouded in mist at the top of a mountain. And when you spot a castle perched on a mountaintop, there’s no other choice but to visit it.

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After parking the car, climbing the mountain, and passing through the gates, we discovered that Château de Gruyères isn’t just a castle—it was a whole medieval town, complete with beautiful, ancient houses.

It seems that today, however, it has turned into a tourist village, filled with cafes and souvenir shops. But despite that buildings still retain their charm. Walking around here is a true delight. The eye is drawn to the tiled roofs, decorated window frames, and shutters, while in the middle of the main square stands an old stone fountain. All of it exudes a unique charm. One of the gutters even has a dragon’s head mounted on it—artificial, of course.

The view of the church against the misty mountain backdrop is especially stunning. It’s so beautiful that someone has even built a special stone window for visitors to admire it through.

As for the Château de Gruyères itself, it’s like Geneva’s Jet d’Eau fountain or the Jvari monastery in Georgia: the most impressive view comes from a distance, not when you’re standing right next to it. Unfortunately, the opening hours of Château de Gruyères are limited, and we missed the chance to go inside.

So, what shall we do? Let’s walk around the Château de Gruyères and see what else we can discover.

Along the way, we are treated to breathtaking views of the mountain landscapes. And then your ears pick up on something. The sound is like hundreds of wind chimes ringing in unison.

Do you know what it is?

It’s the sound of sheep! Each one has a bell hanging around its neck. And as soon as they spot a human, they classify them as a friend (or maybe a potential feeder?), and the whole flock runs up to the fence, making dozens of bells jingle.

Now, this has been a long day exploring Broc, Switzerland, so our energy is running low, and it’s time to head off for a well-deserved rest.

Wasn’t it the perfect day in Broc, Switzerland?

If we had just a little more energy, we would have added a visit to the nearby cheese factory to this ideal Broc day trip. But no worries, the journey isn’t over yet. We still have two more days of our Switzerland trip.

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Montreux, Switzerland

Geneva, Switzerland

1 day Montreux trip itinerary:

What to See in Montreux On a Day Trip

How can you tell you’re in for an adventurous day?

Even on the journey from Geneva to Montreux, it’s hard to tear your eyes away from the window. The vineyards glide past, winding up the steep slopes. Though the leaves are just starting to bud and it’ll be a while before they reach their full lushness, the beauty is undeniable.

The time flies by and in a blink of an eye we have parked our car, ready to actually start our Montreux trip itinerary.

The Postcard-Worthy Chillon Castle in Montreux

Location

Has an entrance fee – check prices & working hours.

Have you ever heard of the castle perched on a stone peninsula, surrounded by water?

Imagine standing by the shore, where the water is so clear you can see every stone beneath the surface. In front of you rises one of Montreux’s must-see attractions – an ancient stone castle, with thick walls and towering spires. Behind it, the majestic mountains loom in the distance.

How long will you stand there, wide-eyed, simply taking in this postcard-perfect view?

Is this the peace we were hoping to find in Montreux? No, it feels more like the promise of an adventure. Let’s go inside!

But before we do, here’s a little riddle for you – how much do you think there is to explore in Chillon Castle? I’ll let you in on a secret – my first guess was way off, so I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised as well.

A Fairytale or a Horror Story? The Cellars of Chillon Castle in Montreux

Since we’re adventurers at heart, let’s plunge straight into the depths of the dungeons.

The first rooms are surprisingly bright for what you’d expect from a dungeon. Soft lighting highlights the elegantly arched ceilings, creating a striking contrast – while the ceilings are meticulously crafted, the floor below resembles a dragon’s den, with massive, jagged boulders poking up from the earth. The rough texture practically invites you to reach out and touch them, as they look as gritty as sandpaper.

The dungeon of Chillon Castle in Montreux is vast, with numerous rooms to explore. It feels like a labyrinth down here. And then, out of nowhere, you spot it – the gallows.

That’s when it hits you – these dungeons were once used as a prison. Your eyes are inevitably drawn to the countless scratches etched into the stone walls. Are they the marks of curious tourists, or the desperate carvings of prisoners, once chained down here?

On the bright side, this might just be the prison with the most stunning view.

As we continue deeper into the Chillon Castle dungeon, the atmosphere grows darker, creepier. The walls are bare, radiating an icy chill that seeps into your bones. Somewhere in the distance, you hear the unsettling drip of water. We move cautiously through the narrow corridors, and suddenly, a shadow flashes across the room – a human silhouette. Someone is moving silently. Then, another shadow follows.

But don’t worry – it’s just a projection. A clever illusion designed to send a shiver down your spine. And right here, you’ll find a staircase leading you back into the daylight.

Luckily for us this was the scariest place to see in Montreux, the rest is all bright and cheerful. 

How Many Courtyards Can One Castle Have? Find Out on Your Montreux Day Trip

Do you remember when I asked how much there is to see in this castle? Chillon Castle in Montreux is like a magician pulling an endless string of colorful scarves from a matchbox—seemingly simple, yet you can’t quite grasp how they all fit inside.

And that’s exactly what happens with the courtyards. From the outside, I couldn’t have guessed there were four courtyards hidden within these walls. But somehow, they all fit in. 

If you’re looking for peace, you might find it sitting on a bench beneath a tree in the courtyard with the charming little garden.

Of course, that is, if your curious adventurer spirit allows you to sit still, rather than examining the dried grapes clinging to the walls or trying to decode the plant names in the flowerbeds. You might even catch yourself wondering how those other tourists managed to scale the walls and take a leisurely stroll up there.

But don’t worry—we’ll be up there soon enough!

Time-Worn Wall Paintings of Chillon Castle in Montreux Switzerland

The rooms, as expected in such an ancient castle, are very empty. At times, it seems that the only furniture people had back then was chests and chairs. Maybe that’s true?

But look at the fireplaces! Nearly every room has one, and they look bigger than my bathroom. You’d need a full bonfire to warm those up!

And don’t forget to take a look at the wall paintings of Chillon Castle! They depict coats of arms and landscapes. Many of them have suffered the wear and tear of time—you can tell that some colors have held up better than others. Blue and red, it seems, are especially resistant.

Finally, Climbing the Chillon Castle Tower

At the end of our castle adventure in Montreux, we’re also given the opportunity to walk along the castle walls (with a view of the inner courtyard) and climb the tower (providing a breathtaking panorama of Montreux and the shimmering blue waters). I can’t help but wonder—did the people who once lived here truly appreciate the beauty that surrounded them every day? 

But there are still more stunning places to see in Montreux, so after a few hours discovering the castle, it is time to set off to uncover what else this enchanting place has to offer.

What to See in Montreux Old Town?

Approximate location

The Montreux waterfront is lined with hotels and cafes, but I’d also heard rumors about an Montreux old town tucked away somewhere nearby, so we set out to find it. Unfortunately, Google Maps isn’t much help this time—suspiciously so.

But we’re not about to give up! After digging through several travel articles about Montreux, I pieced together a rough idea of the area—somewhere between St. Vincent Temple and the start of the trail leading to Chauderon Gorges. 

Given how brief the article was, I should have suspected what was coming next.

After a small climb uphill, it becomes clear that Montreux’s old town is less of an area and more of a street. We stumble upon a perfect little lane lined with historic houses, large copper pots filled with vibrant flowers, lanterns hanging by the doors, and beautifully crafted signs on the buildings. I’m absolutely in love with the colorful shutters, and I can’t resist the wisteria climbing up one of the houses. It’s truly magical. What do you think?

And if you turn around, the sharp spire of St. Vincent’s Church rises into the sky.

Let’s head over there next to admire the ancient charm of the stone building and take in the breathtaking panoramic view of Montreux from the stone walls that surround the church. As you gaze out over the landscape, that sense of peace washes over you once again.

If You Wish to Enjoy Some Hiking on your Trip to Montreux Switzerland

Approximate location

My more sporty friends will be pleased to know that, although the trail to the waterfalls – Chauderon Gorges – is closed (there’s an ominous sign warning of landslides blocking the way), there’s another hiking trail nearby.

So, if you’re looking to catch panoramic views of Lake Geneva’s blue waters and the rooftops of Montreux from an even higher vantage point, you can wind your way through narrow streets and then climb up the mountain via some stairs.

Unfortunately, I didn’t know about this trail in advance, so I ended up walking in high-heeled boots. As a result, we couldn’t quite make it all the way to the top, and the summit remains a mystery for now. But, you can still enjoy the halfway view!

And finally, it is time for the moment we have all been waiting for…

What to See in Montreux Lake Promenade?

Location

If I had to describe what I think a paradise garden looks like, I’d say it looks just like Montreux’s lakeside promenade.

The Montreux promenade has two distinct ends. One pulses with vibrant energy, while the other invites quiet, serene calm. Let’s begin with the livelier side and save the sweet tranquility for later.

By the Freddie Mercury statue, a crowd has gathered, all eager to snap a photo. Nearby, stalls line the promenade, selling everything from food and souvenirs to an unexpected abundance of colorful phone cases. Am I missing something here? Does Switzerland have a secret passion for phone cases?

We continue on, making our way to the quieter end of the Montreux promenade, where I finally experience what true peace feels like. Peace is sitting on a bench on a sunny day, gazing at the impossibly blue waters, surrounded by hundreds of vibrant flowers lining the path, with the mountains looming majestically in the background. In late April, you can still spot traces of snow on the peaks. 

Back at the castle, I asked how long you could stand there, mesmerized by the view. But here, I find myself wondering – how many hours could you sit, watch the water, and simply be? There is no rush as this is the end of our trip to Montreux Switzerland.

How did you enjoy this little virtual trip to Montreux, Switzerland?

Montreux is a dream—a dream of peace, beautiful life, and sunny days along the lakeside promenade. But now, it’s time to move on—let’s hop in the car and head to Broc to taste some authentic Swiss chocolate!

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Broc, Switzerland

Geneva, Switzerland