Higher & higher

Take a short stroll along the cobbled streets of Montreux’s Old Town. With its 17th-century buildings, cobblestones and splendid views out over the lake, this historic neighborhood reveals a little-known side of the town, a world away from the quays and palm trees.

Right in the heart of the Old Town, a little street leads you to where the Gorges de Chauderon begin. You then climb for just over two hours, following the Baye de Montreux river upstream between rocks and lush vegetation. The final section, through the village of Glion, is virtually flat.

Enjoy upscale refreshment at the Buffet de Glion restaurant perched just above the station, which serves delicious seasonal food from the region. It’s the perfect opportunity to recharge your batteries while taking in stunning panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

You continue your journey by hopping on the train that links Glion to Rochers-de-Naye, the highest point in the region at 2,042 meters above sea level. Make sure to get off at Jaman, though! Look forward to 32 minutes of switchbacks, tunnels and magnificent views.

Make sure to catch a glimpse of the Dent de Jaman mountain before starting your descent – just follow the yellow “Col de Jaman” sign. If you’re lucky, some sheep will accompany you part of the way down to the dairy, where you’ll find it hard to resist one of the local specialty cheeses (see pages 12-17).

Now, you’ll follow the path that leads to Les Cases station, a little over two kilometers through coniferous forests and pastures. You’ll cross from the canton of Vaud to that of Fribourg without even noticing.

The Montreux train serves Les Cases every hour, so make sure you check the timetable carefully! Once you’re safely on board, you can put down your rucksack and settle in for your 43-minute journey on the GoldenPass Panoramic.