Montreux is a small but beautiful town located on the shores of Lake Geneva. It is an excellent base to explore the Alps and enjoy all the different activities and attractions this region has to offer.
One of the best things to see and to do in Montreux is to stroll along the lakeside promenade. It is a scenic path that extends for 13km and you will be able to see exotic flowers, trendy cafes and public artwork along the way.
Chateau de Chillon
Sitting on a rocky island on Lake Geneva, Chateau de Chillon is a must-see for travelers in Montreux. It is one of the most visited castles in Switzerland, and for good reason: this medieval jewel is a true treasure from the past.
You'll find this fairytale-like castle encircled in water and accessible via a reconstructed drawbridge, teeming with rounded turrets, sloping roofs, and an army of arches, bastions and courtyards behind its picturesque facade. The octagon-shaped structure is also home to an impressive network of passageways, rooms and outhouses.
This storied castle has inspired everyone from Lord Byron to Mary Shelley. It's a jumble of courtyards, watchtowers and halls filled with arms, period furniture, and art, with its Gothic romance proving irresistible to all who pass through it.
You can visit the Chateau de Chillon on a day trip from Montreux, or you can go on a private tour that lets you customize your itinerary to fit your preferences. The price of the trip varies depending on what is included and how long you are there for.
The Freddie Mercury Memorial
The Freddie Mercury Memorial is dedicated to the late singer and has been on display since 1996. It is located at the lakeside promenade and its bronze statue in Freddie’s likeness stands on a pedestal.
Born Farrokh Bulsara on the East African island of Zanzibar, Freddie Mercury went on to become one of the world’s greatest rock stars. He was a true innovator and influenced generations of musicians.
He had a strong attachment to Montreux, a town he found relaxing and calming in contrast to the party life of London that was more suited for him at the time. As a result, the singer recorded six albums with Queen in Montreux.
Every year, around Freddie’s birthday in September, the city holds a festival called Freddie Celebration Days. This major event combines free events with activities and entertainment to celebrate the late singer’s memory.
The Queen: Studio Experience
The Queen: Studio Experience is a permanent exhibition in Montreux that celebrates the band’s legendary recordings in the Mountain Studios. This museum, which was opened on December 2, 2013, features memorabilia such as costumes, handwritten song lyrics, and instruments.
It’s an amazing experience that retraces Queen’s history and the six albums they recorded in Montreux between 1978 and 1995. Curated by Queen’s official archivist Greg Brooks, the exhibition presents visitors with a chronological overview of their six Montreux-recorded albums.
The exhibition includes a visitor’s area with a replica of the original Neve desk where visitors can remix Queen’s songs. The rest of the control room remains in its original state and it’s a really humbling experience to think about what Queen did here!
Gruyeres
In the heart of Switzerland, Gruyeres is a picturesque medieval town that has been unaffected by time. At the foot of the pre-Alps, it is an enchanting destination.
- The castle esplanade, built on the hillside, has stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It is a perfect place to admire the pristine Alps and indulge in a glass of Gruyere cheese or some fondue (fried pieces of bread dipped in melted cheese served in a shared pot).
- If you are interested in learning more about this famous Swiss cheese, there is an excellent demonstration centre called La Maison du Gruyere just a short drive from town. Here you can watch the process of making Gruyere cheese from start to finish and taste samples along the way.
- After you’ve toured the castle, take a break in one of the many cafés or restaurants to enjoy some delicious local cuisine or a glass of wine. Or, if you’re looking for something more adventurous, head up the mountain to ski or snowshoe in the winter.
