Montreux for Two Nights: A Wine Lover's Dream During Open Cellars of Vaud
While on our whirlwind 10-day Swiss adventure (details below), luck was on our side as we found ourselves in Montreux during the magical Open Cellars event called Caves Ouvertes Vaudoises (open cellars of Vaud).
This wine festival was the perfect introduction to the wine-growing regions of the canton of Vaud from its breathtaking scenery to its cozy cafes and inviting atmosphere. We paired this up with our trip to Montreux for a delightful journey.
And even if you're not here during this event, fear not, for there are still so many activities to enjoy. We're excited to inspire your next Swiss getaway and help you plan the ultimate two-day stop in Montreux!
Preview
Day 1: Exploring Montreux's Charming Cafes, Château de Chillon, and Wine Tasting
Day 1: Exploring Montreux's Charming Cafes, Château de Chillon, and Wine Tasting
Breakfast
Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at one of Montreux's charming cafes. Consider these options:
Tea Room de la Baye: A French cafe known for its cozy ambiance. In the French part of Switzerland!
Cafe Central by Damas: A coffee house on the way to your first destination.
Château de Chillon
This medieval fortress is a must-visit attraction and offers a glimpse into Switzerland's history. Plan to spend about 2 hours exploring its rich heritage. Tickets cost approximately $12-15 (use your Montreux pass!)
Lunch
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Montreux before continuing your adventure.
Vevey
Take a 20-minute train ride to Vevey, a charming town just a stone's throw away.
Visit "The Fork," where the famous Charlie Chaplin statue stands just meters away, offering a perfect photo opportunity. We think this is the most photographed fork in the world! Enjoy the town and waterside to your heart’s content.
Open Cellars
During the weekend we spent in Montreux, we had the fortunate timing of being there during the celebrated Open Cellars of Vaud event called: Caves Ouvertes Vaudoises. But what exactly is Open Cellars?
Open Cellars of Vaud is an annual wine festival held in this picturesque Swiss town. It's a unique and charming event where local wineries open their doors to the public, providing wine enthusiasts with the wonderful opportunity to sample a wide array of wines, including the renowned Chasselas and Pinot Noir varieties. The setting for this experience includes the stunning vineyards of the Lavaux region.
Now, you might wonder -How can I join in on this delightful event?
Well, there's a ticketed entry, typically priced at around 40 CHF (check online for updated information), which grants you unlimited tastings at the participating wineries for two full days (and free transportation). It's an incredible deal when you consider both the convenience and the price (we are not sponsored). It’s even more exciting, since Switzerland only exports less than 1% of its wine, making this festival an absolute must for wine enthusiasts.
Normally, visiting wineries in Switzerland can be quite a meticulous process, involving reservations and planning. Tasting fees can also vary, ranging from 15 to 40 CHF per visit. However, during the Open Cellars of Vaud weekend, families and wineries generously open their doors to visitors, eliminating the need to worry about specific hours or individual tasting costs. To make it even more convenient, the event provides a complimentary train ticket pass for the entire Vaud region, allowing you to explore the area freely for wine tasting and scenic adventures.
What truly sets this event apart is its genuine local flavor. You'll hear an array of beautiful languages being spoken as you mingle with both locals and fellow tourists, all united in their appreciation for wine. The hospitality of the hosts is second to none.
Upon checking in at your first location, you'll receive a glass (your trusty tasting companion for the event) and a map highlighting the participating wineries. Unlike the more formal tastings you might expect, this event is incredibly laid-back. At each winery, you have the freedom to sample as much as you like from their offerings. You can simply carry your glass from one winery to the next, sipping and savoring to your heart's content. Additionally, many places offer complimentary snacks, and some even provide the option to purchase delicious fresh food.
In essence, Open Cellars of Vaud transforms into a classy grand street party. Locals and tourists come together, mingling with winery owners and fellow wine enthusiasts. The atmosphere is lively and joyful, enhanced by the breathtaking local hikes and scenic vistas.
During our visit, we even embarked on a captivating hike that offered magnificent views, taking us across the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as Les Terrasses de Lavaux.
Some of the areas that are included in the Vaud region include:
Chexbres: A charming village located in the heart of the Lavaux vineyards. It's known for its stunning views of the vineyard terraces and Lake Geneva.
Rivaz: Another picturesque village within the Lavaux region. It offers beautiful vistas of the vineyards and the lake, making it a popular stop during the event.
Saint-Saphorin: This quaint village is nestled amidst the vineyards and is known for its historic charm.
Lutry: It offers a beautiful lakeside setting for wine.
In a nutshell, Open Cellars of Vaud is an extraordinary experience that combines wine tasting, stunning landscapes, and a vibrant community atmosphere. It's a delightful celebration where you can savor the flavors of Switzerland and create cherished memories.
Return to Montreux for Relaxation and Dinner
Day 2: Wine Tasting and Cultural Discoveries
Breakfast
Enjoy a hearty breakfast before going wine tasting and hiking!
Wine and Hike Day
You can consider guided tours or do-it-yourself (DIY) day. Here are our recommendations:
After breakfast, prepare for a day of wine tasting in the picturesque vineyards.
Start your wine adventure with a visit to Domaine Bovy, a family-owned winery known for its high-quality Chasselas wines. It's just a 5-minute walk from the Chexbres train station.
Take a leisurely 7-minute walk to Chemin de la Plantaz in Rivaz for a scenic lookout point offering panoramic views.
Lunch: Head to Rivaz village for lunch, enjoying local cuisine at one of the restaurants in the area.
Afternoon: Explore more of the Lavaux vineyards by following the classic route from Saint-Saphorin to Lutry on a quiet private road built through the vineyards. The full 11-kilometer hike takes approximately 4.5 hours
Or consider a longer adventure by embarking on the "Discovering the Terraces of Lavaux" hike, an 8-hour long-distance path marked as GT (Grand Traversée de Lavaux). This trail goes from Ouchy in Lausanne to Château de Chillon Castle between Montreux and Villeneuve.
Of course, do as much or little of the hikes as you wish! It is simply a guide to your day!
Wrap up your wine-tasting experience and head back to Montreux for a delicious dinner Promenade Stroll.
Modifications/Tips:
This 48-hour or two-day adventure in Montreux combines the best of Swiss wine culture, scenic beauty, and cultural exploration. Whether you're a wine enthusiast, a nature lover, or a history buff, Montreux offers a delightful experience! Enjoy your journey!
Montreux Pass: given by nearly all accommodations to you for free! Includes transport within Montreux and discounts for activities.
Plan Ahead: Montreux is a popular destination, especially during events like the Montreux Jazz Festival and Open Cellars of Vaud. It's wise to plan your accommodations, dining reservations, and activities in advance, especially if you're visiting during peak tourist seasons. Be sure to check the Montreux festival calendar to inspire your next getaway!
As with nearly all Swiss cities, highly recommend making reservations for food ahead of time to ensure your favorite picks!
Scenic Train Rides: Montreux is a gateway to some of Switzerland's most scenic train rides. Don't miss the GoldenPass Line, which offers breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps and Lake Geneva.
Continue your Swiss journey to Geneva!!
If you want to embark on our exhilarating 10-day adventure across Switzerland- Check out the linked blog posts for detailed itineraries and insights. Our journey kicked off in Zurich, where we enjoyed a 2-night stay and took a picturesque day trip to Lucerne. Next, we hopped on a train to Interlaken, spending a thrilling 4 days exploring the area and a quick getaway to Bern. Zermatt was our next stop for an unforgettable overnight stay, followed by a breathtaking train ride to Montreux, where we indulged in a delightful two-night stay. Our grand finale was in Geneva, which we explored for a day before concluding our journey with a flight back home. Feel free to tailor your time in each city to suit your preferences! Let the adventure begin! 🚂✈️🇨🇭