My day on the lake
My day on the lake
Ah, the call of the sea and the freshness of the spray! OK, so it's not the Atlantic Ocean or the Mediterranean Sea... but still. With its 581 km2 of surface area, Lake Geneva is nonetheless one of the largest bodies of fresh water in continental Europe - in addition to being crescent-shaped ?. As sailboats and pleasure boats pass by on the horizon, the sound of a foghorn suddenly attracts our attention: a splendid Belle Epoque boat of the Compagnie Générale de Navigation (CGN) is moving in our direction, spitting out a huge cloud of steam. The signal that it is soon time to get on board...
In tune with the waves
The steamship "Montreux" is the oldest of her tribe. The first ship in the fleet to be renovated between 1998 and 2001, she inherited the woodwork of one of her fellow steamers... the "Valais", which disappeared in 2003. Did you know that it can accommodate more than 500 people?
The extraordinary terraced vineyards of Lavaux, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2007. Good to know: we don't say "the" Lavaux (it doesn't have an article). We talk about going "to Lavaux" or "in Lavaux".
"A day out of time on a steamboat that looks like something out of a film.”
Tomas
Steps
1. Boarding
Departing from Le Bouveret, the journey begins by skirting the Grangettes nature reserve, the Ile de Peilz and Villeneuve. Even more beautiful seen from the lake!
2. Chillon Castle
Obligatory stop in front of this castle which would have inspired the creators of the cartoon The Little Mermaid! Superb beach right next to it but no time to linger
3. Direction Lavaux
Delicious meal accompanied by a succulent Lavaux wine... The high life! We pass by Montreux, La Tour-de-Peilz, Vevey... Incredible to realize that this kind of boat has been sailing in the region since 1823!
4. Cully Cully
Visit of the historical town and the banks of Cully. Between cobbled streets, wine cellars and viewpoints, you will be amazed. This village has a soul!
5. Sunset
Back on the water thanks to the SUPs rented from Aloha Sup, in Cully. Magical moments on the lake, just us, the vines and the golden reflections of the sun.
