I am thinking of traveling in Cantons Vaud and Geneva in October and would like to know your suggestions regarding things to see and do, where to stay, and tips on how to organize my trip. So far, I am thinking of fitting in Montreux and the Chillon Castle, the Lavaux vineyards, Lausanne, and Geneva. I am sure I am missing other worthwhile places in the region so please enlighten me!
About me: I am traveling from Luzern, have a halbtax card, enjoy being active and outdoors, and would like to travel for 4-5 days.
The arboretum in Aubonne should be nice in autumn. From Montreux you could take the tourist train that goes to Gruyères and then the Cailler chocolate factory in Broc.
Thanks for all the tips - I had not even heard of some of the ideas mentioned but am glad I asked! I am open to more ideas, especially scenic places, cultural experiences, and historical sites, if they have not already been mentioned.
If you're interested in historical sites, and you're in the Lavaux region,
you might consider vising St, Saphorin between Chardonne and Vevey.
It really is the most picturesque little village with a Gothic church built somewhere between 1520 and 1530 on Roman foundations.
The wine of St. Saphorin has a deservedly high reputation as the vineyard slopes, were the wine is produced, are particularly sunny, and the soil is perfect for the Chasselas and pinot-noir grapes.
It`s worth taking the audio guide at Chateau de Chillon, I loved to hear about the history and anecdotes related to the castle.
You can get a little map of the Lavaux at the tourist office that contains walks and hikes through the vineyards with estimated times.
There`s a train going up to Rocher de Naye from Montreux. It`s a bit expensive but the views on the way up and from the top are awesome. Not recommended on hazy days though.
With the halbtax its not too expensive, I paid 14CHF in one direction from Caux, I think its more like 17CHF from Montreux. The walk back down as far as Caux was 2.5hrs approx but very enjoyable, I guess it would be 3.5 back down to lakeside Montreux.
I'm not proud of taking the train up and walking down but I am carrying an injury
I had elderly visitors and took the train up and down. It`s ok with 1/2 tax but without it`s 66 CHF for a return trip from Montreux, which is expensive in my book.
Btw, did you go through the Grottes de Naye? Did you take lights along?
I wanted to hike up Rocher de Naye but the elevation from Montreux to the top is too daunting (yet - maybe next year). But it`s probably fun to explore the Grottes!