(TAN): Montreux is a traditional resort town on Lake Geneva. It is located between a steep hill and the lakeside, which is known for its microclimate and the Montreux jazz festival. The pretty town is full of flowers, sculptures, Mediterranean trees and grand Belle Époque buildings.
Visitor attractions
Close by, there is an island called castle Château de Chillon that attracts visitors. The destination is especially known for the Montreux jazz festival, which is one of the largest festivals in the world and is held across multiple venues throughout the month of July.
Freddie Mercury statue: The bronze statue of Freddy Mercury has stood on the lakeside since 1996. The statue is located at the market square of Montreux, the town that Freddy Mercury chose as his last home.
Queen Studio Experience: This is a museum that has been dedicated to the British rock group Queen, of which Freddy Mercury was the lead singer.
Corniche lavaux vineyards: This is a highly recommended location for visitors who love wine. You can also have a walk along the vineyards.
Places to stay
Le Mirador Resort & Spa: This is a location from which you can get a jaw-dropping panoramic view of Lake Geneva as well as the Swiss Alps. All the rooms take advantage of the hotel’s lakeside view, which is a primary selling point of this hotel.
Royal Plaza Montreux: Located close to Lake Geneva, this one has a view of the lake and the mountains. Additionally, the hotel also provides traditional regional cuisine, which has a focus on seasonal produce.
Grand Hotel du Lac Vevey: This hotel is known for its service and luxurious offerings. It is one of the oldest hotels, established in 1868, and retains most of its original artwork and furnishing.
Places to Eat
Montreux Jazz Café: A must-try cafe with a relaxed ambiance, their internationally tailored and wide variety of seafood is a big draw.
Confiserie Zurcher: This location is a traditional Swiss tea room. Although the name might indicate that it is a sweet shop, it also provides various other services. Sandwiches, pastries and various hot meals can be eaten here, and it is a popular location.
Eurotel Safran: This is argulably the best place in town for seafood. This also has an especially spectacular view of Lake Geneva and the Alps.
Best time to visit
The best time of the year for sightseeing is from April to October, as the weather is pleasant. But for the Montreux Jazz Festival, you need to be there in July.
How to get there
The best way to get to Montreux is via Geneva International Airport. Trains run between Geneva and Montreux.
In this occasional series, we feature relatively unknown travel destinations.
