Top 20 Lakes around Montreux
Best lakes around Montreux are centered around Lake Geneva, a large body of water nestled in the "Swiss Riviera" with the Alps as a backdrop. This region is known for its mild climate, terraced vineyards, and a blend of natural beauty and cultural significance. Montreux offers a hub for various excursions and is home to historical sites and a vibrant lakeside promenade. The area provides opportunities for relaxation and exploration amidst picturesque scenery.
Best lakes around Montreux
- The most popular lakes is Chillon Castle, a castle located on a rocky island near Montreux. This medieval fortress is Switzerland's most visited historic building, offering a glimpse into its rich history.
- Another must-see spot is Montreux Lakeside Promenade, a trail that stretches for several kilometers along Lake Geneva. This promenade offers views of the lake and mountains, with cafes and subtropical vegetation.
- Visitors also love Lake Hongrin, a lake located in the canton of Vaud. This reservoir is known for its peaceful setting amidst the Vaudois Alps and features an impressive double-arch dam.
- Montreux is known for large lakes like Lake Geneva, as well as smaller reservoirs such as Lac de l'Hongrin and Lac du Vernex. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, from accessible promenades to more secluded alpine settings.
- The lakes around Montreux are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 900 upvotes and over 450 photos shared across various highlights.
Last updated: October 23, 2026
Chillon Castle
Highlight • Castle
Those who want to visit Chillon Castle can take part in one of the various guided tours or rent an audio guide for CHF 6. In addition, audiovisual facilities, information screens and interesting short films offer the opportunity to learn even more about the castle. The visit is complemented by a permanent exhibition, regularly changing special exhibitions on the history of Chillon and art exhibitions.
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Rouvenaz Quay
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The Vevey Fork
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Lake Hongrin
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The area around Lac de l'Hongrin is a military firing range, so that on weekdays access is often restricted or not possible at all.
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Lac du Vernex
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This section of the lake promenade is reachable in a 5-minute walk from the train station in Montreux.
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Around the middle of the 19th century, there was even talk of writing off Chillon Castle for demolition and using the stones in the construction of the railway. However, the landscape, the grand castle, and the romantic stories of the former prisoners had long captivated many, and interest in the monument's outstanding historical significance was also awakening. And so, more and more travelers visited the castle, which, from the 1820s onward, could also be viewed from the new steamships on Lake Geneva. While Rousseau had already chosen the castle as the setting for a key scene in his 1761 epistolary novel Julie ou la Nouvelle Héloïse, other writers, such as Victor Hugo and Alexandre Dumas, were inspired by the place, in addition to Lord Byron. The café next to the castle is now called "Byron." The French painter Gustave Courbet depicted Chillon several times during his stay on Lake Geneva, and Eugène Delacroix, who was influenced by Lord Byron's poems, as well as other artists, also painted views of the moated castle, the image of which became widely known through photography in the age of early tourism.
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After Freddie's death, the band initially tried to create a memorial for his fans and followers in London. However, the city council refused. A suitable location was found in Montreux on the shores of Lake Geneva, where the band recorded their last albums and albums at Mountain Studios, and where Freddie also owned an apartment. The statue, created by sculptor Irena Sedlecka (1928-2020), stands almost 3 meters high above Lake Geneva and was unveiled five years after Freddie's death, on November 25, 1996, by Freddie's parents and Montserrat Caballé, in the presence of band members Brian May and Roger Taylor. An impressive video with original footage of the unveiling can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RxwcVx8NCKI
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A great little hike with breathtaking views of the lake. There's a large section on tarmac depending on the route taken, but it's still a pleasant experience!
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While elsewhere winter still reigns deep, here the first signs of spring are already emerging. Dreamy.
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In the execution cell, dangling from the rope, you have a great view of the lake for a short time
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The trail away from the access road to the dam is easy to ride and partly paved.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Lake Geneva a popular destination around Montreux?
Lake Geneva, also known as Lac Léman, is the most significant and popular lake in the region. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural vibrancy. Visitors enjoy its mild climate, the stunning backdrop of the Alps, and a wide array of attractions like the Montreux Lakeside Promenade and Chillon Castle.
Are there other significant lakes besides Lake Geneva near Montreux?
Yes, while Lake Geneva is the focal point, the broader Vaud region also features other notable lakes, primarily reservoirs. These include Lac de l'Hongrin and Lac du Vernex. These offer more secluded, alpine experiences for those venturing further into the Vaudois mountains.
What kind of water activities can I do on Lake Geneva?
Lake Geneva's crystal-clear waters are safe for swimming, with several public access areas. Popular activities also include boat trips on paddle steamers, which connect various towns along the lake. While paddleboarding is not explicitly mentioned in the provided data, the calm waters are generally suitable for such activities.
Are there good walking or hiking opportunities along the lakes?
Absolutely. The Montreux Lakeside Promenade offers a spectacular, flat walk stretching for several kilometers along Lake Geneva, adorned with subtropical vegetation. For more extensive hiking, you can explore routes like the Narcissus Trail or the Château de Chillon loop, which are part of the hiking guide around Montreux.
Can I find family-friendly activities around the lakes?
Many attractions around the lakes are family-friendly. The Montreux Lakeside Promenade is perfect for leisurely strolls with children, and Chillon Castle offers engaging tours for all ages. The Vevey Fork and the Alimentarium museum nearby also provide educational and fun experiences for families.
What historical sites can I visit near Lake Geneva?
The most prominent historical site is Chillon Castle, a medieval fortress located on a rocky island just off the shore of Lake Geneva. It is Switzerland's most visited historic building, offering a deep dive into its rich past through dungeons, knight's halls, and exhibitions.
What can I expect when visiting Lac de l'Hongrin?
Lac de l'Hongrin is a reservoir nestled in the Vaudois Alps, known for its peaceful and photogenic setting and an impressive double-arch dam. It offers a wild and beautiful natural experience with opportunities for hiking and panoramic views. Be aware that access can sometimes be restricted on weekdays due to its location within a military firing range.
What are the main features of Lac du Vernex?
Lac du Vernex is another reservoir, situated at an elevation of 859 meters between the Pointe de Cray and Planachaux mountains. It's surrounded by beautiful meadows and wooded hills, offering picturesque views. Marked walking paths from Rossinière make the water accessible for visitors to enjoy the natural scenery.
Are there any dog-friendly trails around the lakes?
Yes, several trails around the lakes are dog-friendly. For instance, the area around Lac de l'Hongrin is noted as dog-friendly, and the walking paths around Lac du Vernex also welcome dogs, allowing you to explore the nature with your canine companion.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible paths along the lakes?
The Montreux Lakeside Promenade is known for being wheelchair-accessible, offering spectacular views of Lake Geneva and the mountains on a varied, flat surface. This makes it an excellent option for visitors seeking accessible outdoor experiences.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Montreux?
Beyond lakeside strolls, the region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking routes, from easy to difficult, such as the Gorges du Chauderon loop or more challenging mountain hikes like those around Rochers de Naye. There are also gravel biking opportunities, with routes like the Boucle gravier depuis Chamby. For detailed routes, explore the hiking guide, mountain hikes guide, and gravel biking guide for Montreux.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the Montreux Lakeside Promenade?
Visitors love the Montreux Lakeside Promenade for its spectacular views of Lake Geneva and the surrounding mountains. It's beautifully designed with subtropical vegetation, palm trees, and various art installations. The mild climate allows for cafes, restaurants, and shady spots to relax, making it a perfect place for leisurely strolls and enjoying the 'Swiss Riviera' atmosphere.
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