Lake Geneva

This region, where the Rhône River spreads out into a spectacular mountain valley, is one of the most scenic in the world. The ever-changing lake vistas, the vineyards and villages have stolen many a seasoned traveler’s heart. At the west end of the lake is Geneva, a center of diplomacy with an international airport, lovely lakefront promenades and parks, a charming old town and more than 40 museums. Lausanne has a Gothic cathedral and the wonderful Olympic Museum. The steep lakefront vineyards of the Swiss Riviera region are a unique place for a walk or ride among the grapes, stopping in quaint villages such as Epesses and St. Saphorin ...

This region, where the Rhône River spreads out into a spectacular mountain valley, is one of the most scenic in the world. The ever-changing lake vistas, the vineyards and villages have stolen many a seasoned traveler’s heart. At the west end of the lake is Geneva, a center of diplomacy with an international airport, lovely lakefront promenades and parks, a charming old town and more than 40 museums. Lausanne has a Gothic cathedral and the wonderful Olympic Museum. The steep lakefront vineyards of the Swiss Riviera region are a unique place for a walk or ride among the grapes, stopping in quaint villages such as Epesses and St. Saphorin for lake fish and local white wine. Classy Montreux has a beautiful waterfront promenade, and the famous Jazz Festival every July. The lakeside Chateau Chillon is just one of many castles built in the days when this region was a battlefield for the powerful city-state of Bern and the French House of Savoy. Vevey has another lovely lakefront park and several small museums. The family will like the Food Museum and the Games Museum. Classic paddlewheel boats ply the lake throughout the warmer months. A boat ride, perhaps to the spa of Evian on the French (southern) shore, is a must. The Alpine resorts of the Bernese Alps and the Valais are a short train ride away.

About the Expert

Charlie Morris is the author of the Open Road guidebooks Best of Honduras, Best of Costa Rica, Best of Belize, and Switzerland Guide.