It's as if you were flipping through a storybook and the pages transported you to two completely different places in one country. On one, a lake shimmers under an azure sky, framed by palm trees and a breathtaking backdrop of the Alps. On the other, a landscape of green hills unfolds, with grazing cows, the aroma of melting cheese, and a medieval gate behind which time has stood still.

Montreux and Gruyères. Two worlds with unique atmospheres, lying just a short distance from one another. Embark on the journey and rest assured that whether you are more captivated by the sparkle of the lake or the rustic charm of the mountains, this adventure will remain in your heart long after you return home.

 

Montreux

Imagine a perfect summer day on the Swiss Riviera. The sun glistens on the surface of Lake Geneva, the mountains on the opposite shore paint a monumental silhouette against the blue sky, and the air is scented with a salty breeze and flowers from meticulously maintained flower beds. This is the very charm offered by the promenade in Montreux, which practically invites you to take a long, undisturbed stroll.

And it is right here that you will encounter the quiet yet majestic guardian of this place— the Freddie Mercury statue. An icon whose voice conquered the world found his final home here. In a picturesque house called Duckhouse, this undeniable genius drew peace and inspiration in the final chapter of his life. Thus, Montreux became more than just a spa resort; it is a place where the spirit of music lives on.

Did you know that the timeless song "Barcelona" was born right here? Today, you can visit Queen’s former recording studio, which has been transformed into an amazing museum. Here, you’ll see handwritten lyrics of their greatest hits and original instruments with your own eyes.

Address: Casino Barrière de Montreux, Rue du Théâtre 9, Montreux

 
But that’s not all. Every July, this idyllic town explodes with energy during the famous jazz festival. The streets pulse with live music, the biggest international stars perform, and the air is electric with creativity.

 

Gruyères

This enchanting medieval village in the heart of the Swiss Alps rises like an eagle's nest atop a hill. The name itself will surely give you a hint. Yes, this is precisely where the world-famous Gruyère cheese is made, its flavour so irresistible. But Gruyères has much more to offer than just cheese.

The village is dominated by a massive castle, built here by the local counts whose coat of arms featured a crane (in French, "grue"). Upon visiting the castle, we found ourselves in another world. The tour took us through richly decorated rooms where we admired precious tapestries, frescoes, and paintings with beautiful landscape motifs by the famous painter Camille Corot.

In the castle museum, we stumbled upon a real treasure – the relic of a severed hand from an Egyptian mummy. How did this mysterious artifact get here? Apparently, it was brought here by one of Napoleon's soldiers as a souvenir from the Egyptian campaign.

Afterward, we headed to the romantic garden, which surrounds the castle. Flower beds in full bloom, fragrant herbs, and picturesque nooks – all of this creates a perfect atmosphere for rest and relaxation.

Address: Rue du Château 8, Gruyères

At the foot of the castle lies a small square that transported us several centuries back in time. Cobbled lanes are lined with charming houses whose facades tell stories of the past. Some of them have stood in this very spot for more than 400 years. On the ground floors of these houses, cozy shops selling local products and restaurants serving Swiss specialties awaited us.

In the heart of the village also lies a dark secret. The H.R. Giger Museum, home to the master of horror visions, transports visitors into a world of terrifying monsters and alien beings, famous not only from the cult film Alien. If you are a horror fan, then walk the corridors of the ancient Château Saint Germain and let yourself be engulfed by an atmosphere that is guaranteed to make your hair stand on end.

Address: Rue du Château 2, Gruyères

 
Just a short way down from the castle hides a treasure for all cheese lovers. The restaurant Chalet de Gruyères is a place where history meets modern gastronomy. Here, you can immerse yourself in the world of cheese fondue, whose roots stretch deep into the past. Gruyère cheese, produced here using traditional methods since 1115, is the foundation of this delicious dish.

Address: Rue du Bourg 53, Gruyères

 
You will learn all about the history and tradition of this cheese at the Fondue Academy and learn how to prepare fondue like a true Swiss. Whether you choose the classic combination with bread or experiment with other ingredients like mushrooms, potatoes, or apples, one thing is certain – this culinary experience will not disappoint.

Adresa: Rue du Bourg 40, Gruyères

 

Our parking tip:

Just below the village of Gruyères, there are 3 parking lots located on Route de la Cité.

 

Our gourmet tips to conclude:

In Montreux, have some lake fish (such as perch – filet de perche) with local wine. In Gruyères, you must try the fondue moitié-moitié (a blend of Gruyère and Vacherin cheeses).