Montreux Runner`s Tips

Shores of Lake Geneva 

The most picturesque walk or run in the area. You’ll get to see the water, the Alps, the statues and musical highlights over a distance of your choice. Turn around when you are tired – you can’t get lost. If you are able to run 10 km, start from the station, where you’ll have the opportunity to quickly admire the Belle Époque trains called MOB. From there, you can head to Villeneuve, some 5.8 km away, as part of this moderately challenging route. The area is also popular with birdwatchers.

The steep valley: Chauderon Gorge – Les Avants

A spectacular, scenic and well-marked hike that is rather ­challenging. At 4.3 km in length, it takes 1 hour 16 minutes on ­average to complete. However, it is certainly worth the sweat!

Your own fartlek

For non-runners: fartlek is a system of training in which terrain and pace are continuously varied. I once did it in Montreux, at my own pace, and absolutely loved it. Since the village is steep, I used the uphill sections to accelerate and then rest, while admiring the rooftops and, of course, the lake from above. Then I did some parts on the flat route along the lake. I explored the gardens and art slowly, before adding some hills again at the end. I was a tourist and a runner at the same time, and since the weather in the region is rather mild, this option is good in any season.

National park route

A longer route (14.5 km) from Montreux to Les Avants, Sonloup and Le Cubly that offers a wide and spectacular view of the Alps and the lake. The route starts near the statue of Freddie Mercury and goes up to Les Avants and Sonloup. From the summit, the trail descends on the Sentier des Narcisses. Shortly after the summit of Cubly are the ruins of the Tour de Salausex. Upon arriving at Les Avants, you can go back with the funicular.

The Chillon Castle

Reach the iconic Chillon Castle from Montreux – follow the path next to the water and admire the beautiful route and the Alps. The Castle can be accessed directly from the city centre, but it is considered a waterside castle and is connected to the land by a bridge. It can be visited
between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., so perhaps you could take a well-deserved break and see the armour, the furniture and the beautiful decorations, or stay outside and admire the oval shape on the rocky island. Go back home after a trip to the past!

The Lavaux Vineyards

Another great location for a run or hike is the terraced vineyards of Lavaux. Of the six Vaudois wine regions, the Lavaux is the most spectacular, and has been accorded UNESCO World Heritage status. A footpath of 32 km in length leads from Lausanne-Ouchy to Chillon Castle, so there’s plenty to choose from. A less challenging option is taking the train from Montreux to St. Saphorin, then doing a shorter hike to Rivaz.

Words Beatrice Lessi