We had two reasons to visit Montreux. One was to change trains when travelling from Grimentz Zinal to Gstaad. The other was to convalesce after a couple of months of hard skiing (my knees needed a rest!). Montreux suited both purposes perfectly.
The transit stop was as comfortable & efficient as expected from the Swiss railway system. The Golden Pass trains to Rougemont, Gstaad & Zweisimmen are sensational. The journey winds its way up behind Montreux & the snow line is quickly entered in the upper reaches of the city. The views are stupendous & the 'suburbs intriguing. They looked to be worthy of further exploration.
Returning from Gstaad a few days off was required & a dose of small city Switzerland was just the tonic. The line of Grand Hotels near the foreshore is impressive & the midweek prices even more so. The city is very quiet in the depths of winter (aside from Christmas/New year we understand) & so midweek hotel prices are very competitive. Stayed 3 nights in the excellent La Rouvenaz. it was convenient to everything & suited our needs perfectly.
The Lake Geneva foreshore has a few daytime Freddy Mercury worshipers, but is otherwise quiet during the week. A line up of wonderful sculptures lined the lake & made for some interesting photography opportunities. The shops, bars & restaurants were exactly as we wanted them. There is even some culinary diversity with quality Indian & Chinese offerings. We walked to the Chateau du Chillon & back. It is a wonderful looking castle standing in the lake. A nearby train line & major road mar the location, but it is still a beautiful spot early & late in the day when the tourist buses aren't around.
Feeling totally refreshed after three nights in Montreux, the forecast was for snow in the nearby Portes du Soleil. A quick train ride to Aigle then a bus to Torgon La Jorette and voilà, we were in the ski resort. Brilliant!
Montreux is a lakeside delight too easily missed. Worth a night or two if there is no powder to slide on in the mountains, more if your body is totally falling apart!
