Montreux Car Tours: Top 5 Scenic Drives & Reviews
Dreaming of hitting the road in gorgeous Montreux, Switzerland? You know, Montreux is practically a postcard come to life, sitting pretty on Lake Geneva and offering some amazing drives along the water. I wanted to round up what I believe are the five very best car tours you can take starting from this awesome city, giving you what you need to get going.
1. The Classic: Montreux to Chillon Castle & Back
So, first off, the drive to Chillon Castle is a super choice to start. Really, it is just a hop, skip, and jump from Montreux itself. That trip is almost unbelievably quick and scenic near Lake Geneva. That lake has some unbelievable views! Basically, Chillon Castle sticks right out into the lake and looks absolutely timeless. After you’re done snapping pics and acting like you’re in a historical drama, you can then easily drive back to Montreux. Also, the total round trip is very, very short. Thus you’ll have plenty of time to roam around the town.
Speaking from experience, Chillon Castle isn’t just a great place to visit; it is a good opportunity to capture photos that appear unreal. You see, when you’re driving that road, I believe you can see some beautiful views of both the water and some mountains hanging around way off in the background. As I was saying, you have a very short commute for that photo op!
2. Vineyard Views: Montreux to Lavaux Wine Region
Do you know, for wine fans, taking a car through the Lavaux region really is an absolute must. These terraced vineyards have views over Lake Geneva toward the French Alps, it seems they go on and on. You may have noticed, these vineyards are even a UNESCO World Heritage site. So they’re very worth checking out. You should know that you’re able to stop off in multiple very, very small wine villages. Of course, in each town you get the chance to enjoy some tastings.
I would suggest that you to set aside a solid half-day. That will allow you to properly savor the panoramas plus some local wine, that could be quite fun! Like your friends, the narrow roads through the vineyards could be a bit tricky. Thus be sure you are taking it a bit slow. You might want to keep an eye out for walking tourists.
3. Lakeside Cruise: Montreux to Vevey & Beyond
Want something a little, slightly longer? Why not go a bit beyond Chillon Castle, so going on to Vevey? Actually, it’s an enchanting place to experience. Like your normal, everyday stop, Vevey is bursting with character. Similarly to Chaplin’s World museum, I bet it has really quite a few memorable things to see and places to check out. Driving that small part of the Swiss Riviera definitely provides constant gorgeous lake views along the way.
You should consider breaking up your drive so that you are checking out some quaint little cafes and local stores to do your part in supporting the people who reside there. Very, very similar to a charming painting, the vibe in that area has an unbelievably classic feel. To be honest, it will take you to simpler times.
4. Mountain Escape: Montreux to Les Rochers-de-Naye
Les Rochers-de-Naye basically is a spot that delivers absolutely spectacular views. These views stretch far beyond just the Lake Geneva area. Instead, they provide an unbelievable view of all the Alps. Yet you can’t just simply drive the whole way up to the peak; still, it is a unique chance. Usually, you’re driving your car to a mountain base, and there you will have to grab a cogwheel train that goes up the rest of the distance. That ride itself honestly is quite the event! Thus, it is very exciting for people that could like adventures.
The site at the summit really gives a lot of ways to soak up your surrounding landscape. Anyway, this mountain is really high up, it means this journey may well take more than a half-day, yet the special view from way up high is very, very worth the travel!
5. Gruyères & Chocolate: Montreux to Gruyères & Broc
Alright, you have here a drive perfect for every type of foodie! So, Gruyères has a fantastically scenic town noted for its popular cheese. From there, anyway you can drive to Broc, in which the Cailler Chocolate Factory stays close by. When driving in between those locations, you may well experience rolling hills so much so they seem fake.
As I was saying, the tour through the Cailler Factory is genuinely amazing. Still, I do strongly suggest checking the availability in advance because, typically, tours book up fast. I would say set aside nearly a full day in order to experience both the city and factory in equal measure.