Lavaux Vineyards
Switzerland
A short but sublime drive along Route 9 above the northern shore of Lake Geneva, through the UNESCO World Heritage Lavaux wine terraces that stagger up from the water in sheer stone-walled tiers that beggar belief. The road links the higgledy-piggledy French-speaking city of Lausanne to Château de Chillon, an extraordinary 13th-century fortress immortalised in Lord Byron's poem.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Lausanne
Switzerland's Olympic capital and most hilly lakeside city. The Gothic Notre-Dame Cathedral and Collection de l'Art Brut make it Geneva's most stimulating neighbour.
- Lutry
The first Lavaux village east of Lausanne, a medieval harbour where the stone-walled wine terraces begin and cellar-door tastings of Chasselas are easy to find.
- Cully
The Féchy and Épesses appellations produce the finest Chasselas on the lake, crisp and mineral. The Caveau des Vignerons de Cully is the best tasting address.
- Lavaux Vinorama, Rivaz
A cave-like UNESCO visitor centre cut into the terraces at Rivaz, with tastings of 300 regional wines and a panoramic terrace over the lake to the French Alps.
- Vevey
Charlie Chaplin's home for his final 25 years; his Villa is now the exceptional Chaplin's World museum. Nestlé's global HQ also sits on this lakefront.
- Montreux
Home of the world-famous Jazz Festival every July. The lakefront Freddie Mercury statue marks where Queen recorded at Mountain Studios for over a decade.
- Château de Chillon
A 13th-century island castle that inspired Byron's 1816 poem. Turner and Courbet both painted it; the dungeon pillar where Bonivard was chained is still visible.
Where to Eat
- Auberge de l'OndeSwiss
Historic inn in Saint-Saphorin offering traditional Swiss dishes with a modern twist, paired with local wines.
- Le DeckMediterranean
Restaurant in Chexbres with panoramic views of Lake Geneva, serving Mediterranean cuisine and local wines.
- Café de RiexFrench
Charming café in Riex offering French-inspired dishes made from local ingredients, with a selection of regional wines.
Things to Do
- Lavaux Vineyard TerracesScenic Viewpoint
UNESCO World Heritage site offering breathtaking views of terraced vineyards overlooking Lake Geneva.
- AlimentariumMuseum
Food museum in Vevey exploring the history and science of nutrition, with interactive exhibits and workshops.
- Montreux Jazz FestivalEvent
Annual music festival in Montreux featuring international artists across various genres, held every July.