Lake Geneva, right in the west of Switzerland, is the pearl of the Rhone valley. And this extends from Geneva to the French Provence and from there to the Mediterranean. In the alpine part of this valley, in Valais, you can already sense the special scent of southern herbs and conifers, the southern light and the mild climate. The Swiss side of the lake lies mainly against the southern shore. The upper end of the lake, from Montreux to Vevey, is not called the “Riviera” for nothing. There it seems like you could be in Nice or Cannes. Further on towards Lausanne you are soon in the World Heritage area of Lavaux, with its wine terraces. From there along the coast to Geneva one famous wine region follows another.
Experience the best of this region with the Swiss Travel System. For example, ride the InterCity train from Berne-Fribourg to Lausanne-Geneva. Choose a seat on the left in the direction of travel. Soon after Puidoux-Chexbres there is a tunnel. And then look down to Lake Geneva. You will stay seated for a long time spellbound by the beautiful scenery.
Perhaps you will still have time to cross the lake from Lausanne to Geneva, likewise with the Swiss Travel System, with side trips to the French side of the lake. You speak French on both sides.
Don’t forget to allow some time in Geneva and Lausanne for a walk around town. Geneva is certainly the most international of all Swiss cities, and has a typically French charm. Almost a small Paris, in many quarters. But then again not really, as you believe you could run into Rousseau or Calvin at any moment. And of course Geneva has a lake, which it is worth strolling around.
Lausanne is also on Lake Geneva. Every street goes up steeply from the lake. The former diocesan city sprawls over five hills. High up on one of them is the Gothic cathedral, surrounded by the medieval city. Down at the lake, in the suburb of Evian, you can stroll along the shore, which is almost like being on the Riviera.
Here there are hundreds of other beautiful spots to discover, such as the region north of Lake Geneva, the southern foothills of Jura and Lake Neuchâtel. Do you want to stay there or will you come along to the Jura region? Click here >
