I always feel drawn back to Lake Geneva, especially the flower-lined promenade of Vevey and the steeply-terraced vineyards above it. This stunning region is an essential part of any Swiss food and wine tour.
Called ‘the Swiss Riviera’, it’s perhaps the most obviously beautiful location in this most scenic country – and it’s somewhere I feel an uncanny sense of tranquillity. Plus it’s home to my favourite hotel, some of Switzerland’s best wines and delicious food. Let’s go – here are my top tips for your Lake Geneva food and wine tour.
Stay Hotel Trois Couronnes
There’s no better place to enjoy the dramatic view of the Savoy Alps across Lake Geneva than from a balcony of this majestic hotel – it changes constantly and is glorious at any time of day. The ‘Three Kings’ also has Switzerland’s best breakfast buffet (including bubbly) as well as thoughtful service and a great spa area. Waking here is such a joy, and it’s where we stay on the final night of my Swiss food and wine tour.
Eat Cafe de Riex
Lunch at this casual restaurant, in the hillside wine village of Riex, is an essential part of every visit to Lake Geneva. Chef Peter Hasler makes excellent use of local produce in delicious dishes that combine Swiss tradition with his own innovative flair. The wine list showcases the region, including a producer literally across the road! Service is quirky, informed and fun and the view is superb!
Drink Lavaux Vineyards
The Swiss Riviera includes the prestigious wine region of Lavaux, where hillside vineyards have been in the same families for centuries. Jean-François Chevalley at Domaine de la Chenalettaz is a 19th generation winemaker producing excellent whites and reds including Grand Cru Dézaley. Denis Bovard of Domaine Antoine Bovard (12th generation), works alongside his father adding his own touch with a delicious natural chasselas.
Do Paddle Steamer Ride
Steamboats have been paddling across Lake Geneva since 1823 and today several beautifully restored Belle Epoque boats grace the lake. This unique fleet includes the gorgeous Vevey, built in 1907 with its chestnut-panelled, bronze-trimmed lounge. When I’m out for a lakefront walk, I like to jump aboard at Vevey-Marché and ride back to Vevey-La-Tour near the hotel (which offers guests a discount card for the boat).
See Lakefront Sculptures
The Vevey lakefront is famous for its sculptures as well as the view. Charlie Chaplin, who spent the last 25 years of his life in Vevey, is immortalised in a bronze statue that looks across at an 8-metre high stainless steel fork protruding from the lake (part of the nearby Alimentarium food mueum). Further along, two bronze nymphs ride bridled seahorses into the lake.
