Things to Do in Montreux

Montreux, on the eastern shore of Lake Geneva, has been a popular hangout among artistic types since the 19th century. The Old Town of Montreux (Vieille-Ville de Montreux) is an often overlooked part of the city, due to its location on a steep hill high above the town, but the views and relaxed atmosphere are worth the climb.

The town of Montreux, in eastern Switzerland, boasts a 10-foot-tall statue of Freddie Mercury that commemorates the singer’s years living here and his lasting musical influence. The memorial is a popular tourist attraction, and many Queen fans make a pilgrimage to the spot to leave flowers and other tributes.

The beautifully tended Lakeside Flower Promenade (Chemin Fleuri) winds its way for 6.25 miles (10 kilometers) along the Swiss northwestern shoreline of Lake Geneva from Vevey to Villenueve, taking in the stylish town of Montreux and the fortified lakeside Château de Chillon. The pathway is lined

with cacti, palms and plane trees as well as numerous funky sculptures, including one of Freddie Mercury in the center of Montreux; there are benches from which to contemplate the delightful alpine views and neatly planted parks full of exotic flowers. On summer evenings it seems the whole of Montreux gathers along the promenade to take the air, chat, jog, rollerblade or simply admire the spectacular views.

There are plenty of bars and restaurants scattered along the sparkling lakeside, and kids will love the little train that chugs up and down the prom in Montreux during the summer. An easy section of the walk for families to follow runs from Montreux to the 11th‐century Château de Chillon, perched on a rocky islet just south of the town. This gentle stroll takes around 45 minutes amid glorious panoramas; from the castle it is possible to take an old‐fashioned steamer back up the lake to Montreux.

Chillon Castle (Chateau de Chillon), a medieval castle on the banks of Lake Geneva, is one of Switzerland’s most visited attractions. Travelers come to find out more about its fascinating history—it was used as a defensive outpost, a summer home for the dukes of Savoy, and a state-run prison.

A snow-coated wonderland perched high in the Vaud Alps of Western Switzerland, the Glacier 3000 resort is a one-stop destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Just an hour from Montreux, it offers spectacular mountain views, ample opportunities for hiking and skiing, and a huge range of adrenaline-fueled activities.