exploring Montreux
Montreux, Switzerland, is a magical destination coloured by a fascinating history and culture. In last week’s post you read about Montreux’s connection to the music industry. I’d like to continue exploring Montreux–the small city on the Lake Geneva shoreline in the heart of the region known as the Montreux Riviera.
We strolled along the shore of Lake Geneva from the heart of town to the Chillon Castle. It was sure worth the hike–to have the opportunity to explore the Chateau de Chillon.
You can’t visit Montreux and not be captivated by the omnipresence of the Chateau de Chillon, also known as Chillon Castle. You can see it from almost any view in Montreux. The massive castle was built over several centuries, with earliest mentions being from 1150 AD. There have been numerous additions, renovations, and restorations over the past 850 years that have changed, preserved, or enhanced what may have been. But regardless of whenever one may have visited the castle, there is no doubt that you would have been somewhat mystified by its incredible presence on Lake Geneva–known locally as Lac Léman.
The Chateau de Chillon really has an amazing presence as you draw near it and let yourself be transported to medieval times. The interior of Chillon Castle is just as awe-inspiring as the exterior. I wish I’d had more time to explore!
Chillon Castle hosts a wide range of special events including art shows and book launches.
It was kind of spooky to see a noose hanging in the lower level of the castle, but that was to remind us that Chillon Castle once contained a prison. On the bright side, Château de Chillon continues to host gala events at this incredible venue. Can you imagine enjoying a wedding or candlelight dinner here? Check out the website for photos of some of the events they have hosted. I’ll have to see if I can uncover a connection to chocolate …
In this post, we let our senses go wild as we taste the various delights that Montreux has to offer. And yes … that does include chocolate. 🙂
I’ve not been to Switzerland but hope to get there one day. The noose does look spooky though
Hi Bola and welcome back to my site. Yes, Switzerland definitely has something for everyone. I did really enjoy the Montreux Riviera, as each city along the shoreline of Lake Geneva has its own history and personality. Including the photo of the noose reminded us that those chalets and castles weren’t just for parties and opulence! They had other purposes, and in the case of Castle Chillon, it contained a prison.
It is definitely a place that I would love to visit!I love castles, that is why it is my type of place!
Hi Agness. Yes, there is something quite mystical and magical about the turrets and secret passages, etc. I have a feeling you would love Montreux. Happy travels!
Looks like another place I need to visit! Love this photo of you–-expansive grin in an expressing place!
Thank you
I love seeing the “bones” of these ancient places: the high arched ceilings, the pillars and rock work. It’s fun to try and imagine what drew people long ago to a place and the lives of those who lived in around the shadows of Chatau de Chillon. Lovely photos!
Thx so much, Anita. Glad you enjoyed the post and pics. I agree. It’s interesting to see the behind-the-scenes aspects of a popular place. Gives you much greater insight. Have a wonderful holiday season. 🙂
It indeed is spooky to see a noose hanging , the view of The Chateau de Chillon is simply stunning.
I love old castles – so atmospheric. And this one has a wonderful setting too…
The noose strikes me as a great reminder that, although we romanticize the Middle Ages in TV shows and films, in fact it was a brutal period in Europe’s history. Nevertheless, I’d love to explore that castle in Montreux!
My feelings exactly, Rachel.
The castle looks mysterious and the noose and the narrow passaged do look scary. Wandering in the castle, probably you never know if you would bump into a strange medieval character from the past.
The interiors of the castle look amazing. I would love to know more about the prisons and other stories of this castle. And maybe spend half a day here too 🙂
Wonderful to see that the chateau has survived the elements over the centuries. I wonder if it’s ever been used in a movie set?
Hi Jeannette: I don’t think it’s been used as a movie set, but here is a link that gives you more of a view with several videos. Enjoy! http://www.chillon.ch/en/multimedia/films.
I’m down with any castle – noose or no noose! And we’ve been trying to get to Switzerland for a while now, so this is one to put on that future itinerary.
What great pictures. Now I am completely jealous of you, you get to visit places and eat chocolate, and visit medieval castles.
Hi William I thought you would enjoy that post as I know how deeply you are fascinated with medieval culture. Did you read the post I wrote on Gruyeres? I was also at that castle/chalet and it was equally as impressive, although the setting was not as dramatic.
That noose definitely is a bit chilling. I hope they remove it before a wedding reception or the groom may think it’s for him if he misbehaves! The castle is another highlight that makes this area fabulous to visit
Montreux is a magical place. Chateau Chillon is beautiful and has that eerie allure of Old Europe. Maybe you can find a chocolate recreation of the castle.
Hi Doreen, castles are fascinating to visit, aren’t they? This one looks beautiful. The noose is a bit ominous. Glad you thought to capture that image. 🙂
That noose is really scary. I’m enjoying all the history and beauty of Montreux but I have to admit that I really can’t wait to hear more about the food and of course the chocolate!
I’ll get the new post up this weekend, Sue. Stay tuned, or subscribe to be sure you don’t miss it. 🙂
Visiting Lake Geneva and exploring the Montreux Riviera is my dream too, Doreen. There is so much beauty and a great deal of history in this place. Switzerland is one of those countries that you could never get bored of. Ah, and all that chocolate….
So true, Anda. Switzerland is a traveller’s dream. So many avenues to explore. And yes. The chocolate is divine! 🙂 I hope you get to visit soon.
David, my other half, spent three weeks at school in Montreux learning French when he was in high school. He took me there not long after we met and showed me around. Chateau Chillon is stunning.
Lyn, how lucky Davis was to have learned French in Montreux! what an experience that must have been. I’m glad he shared this beautiful spot with you.
If and when I make it back to Switzerland, Montreux is certainly on my list of places to see now. The dangling noose is a nice touch and reminder that not all picture perfect things are picture perfect.
Thanks so much for your comment, Jeri. I’m glad you understand why I included the photo of the noose. It was not for shock value, but rather as you say, to show that even the prettiest place (or person!) can have a dark side.
I was enjoying your photos and then eeekk! a hangman’s noose caught me by surprise! But, I suppose the reality was shocking as well. Chillon Castle looks as if it has quite the story to tell and when we explore places such as the castle, it reminds me how young the US actually is.
Hi Patti and thanks for your comment. Yes, that’s always my biggest takeaway, too, when I’m overseas. We in North America live in such “young” cultures.
There aren’t many things more enchanting than a castle on the water! Chillon Castle looks lovely!
I love visiting Castles, by far I have visited 5 castles located in India. There are many more remaining 🙂
Chillon Castle looks impressive of the images you shared. Will soon check out the website to view other images too!
Thanks for sharing Doreen, looking forward to next week’s post!
Thx so much for your kind words, Sushmita. I didn’t realize India has so many castles! One more reason I shall have to visit.
Doreen, whenever you plan to visit India, would love to volunteer as your trip planner 😉 will love to help you visit the best of what India has to offer.
It feels good to know when people you know want to explore your region and you can share stuff 🙂
India has lovely castles few of the Images of where I have visited you can find on my Instagram & Facebook.
Also if you visit India make sure to stay in ‘Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur’ it is a royal property converted to a hotel!
Thanks very much for the generous offer, Sushmita. I will be in touch!
🙂
Chillon Castle is impressive! I love the picture with the water dividing the castle from the walkway/park. I can imagine feeling transported to medieval times.
Thanks, Donna. I love that photo, too. I think it would be amazing to attend a costume party there where everyone was in medieval costume. Can you imagine???
Oh I just love things like this Doreen! I have always been an ancient history buff and look for places like this to explore whenever I travel – this would be a must for me. Thanks for sharing. 🙂
My pleasure, Marty. I love destinations like Montreux, too. They are so multi-layered.
That noose does send a little bit of chill down the spines. Otherwise, I love old castles and would love to visit here sometimes.
As always Doreen, I love your photography, especially the first one with you by the lake.
What fabulous photos you took, Doreen! What fabulous places you have visited!
Thx so much, Bev. I’m glad you enjoyed the photos. It would be lovely to have you along on a Chocolatour. Stay tuned!
I sure hope they wafted that castle with plenty of sage smoke before using the venue for weddings, after knowing it was used for a prison. Wouldn’t want that kind of energy in a marriage. 😉
Interesting point, Esther! I have encountered some places in Switzerland where principles of Feng shui were used. I will check with the authorities of the Chillon Castle to see if they have done any kind of cleansing ceremony. Truly, the feeling you get at this site is uplifting and not negative, so I think that the negative energy must have been outed.
Loved seeing Chillon Castle again. Thanks for bringing back the great memories.
When I was in Switzerland I visited Château de Chillon but I don’t remember the noose! I’m sure I would have remembered that. It’s definitely worth a visit and I think I walked there, along the shore, from Montreux.
My gosh Doreen, these are gorgeous photos! I especially love the one of you with the lake and castle in the background!
Thanks, Linda. I think that new iPhone of mine seems to be getting quite the nod from my readers for taking great pictures. So happy I got it.
What is the noose thing in your one photo?
Yes, TammyJo and Phoenicia, the noose was a replica of the fact that there were people hung in the prison of the castle. I, too, think it’s creepy, but I thought it was interesting to share as I doubt most of us have seen such a thing! That aside, the castle is a magnificent structure and has a breathtaking setting.
Very cool. Thank you!
Is that a rope they hung people with in the 4th photograph – how chilling! No, I would not enjoy spending time in this castle. There is something eerie about it. Whilst the architecture is grand and extremely solid, I would be too busy thinking of the many happenings that took place here.
Wow! So much history in that castle. I love the mood it’s giving off, creepy yet regal. Looking forward to hearing about the taste sensations in the next post. Bring it on!
It’s amazing to think of the engineering that went into the construction of the castle in Montreaux, realizing that basically everything had to be done by hand.
Hi Ken and thanks for your comment. Yes, the medieval castles I have been in over in Europe really are amazing structures. Most of our modern-day buildings don’t make too to 100 years old. These structures are often in the area of 1000 years old and still looking good!
Thanks for some more insights into Montreaux.
I must ask, have you found it difficult to grapple with the cost of visiting Switzerland?
All I’ve met, including locals, have advised that it is exorbitantly expensive!
HI Chris. Yes, Switzerland is expensive. There’s no way to whitewash that. As a professional travel writer, I am very fortunate that most of the costs for the trips I take are covered by my hosts. But I am still cogniscent of the real costs of the destinations I visit and always include relevant links so that readers can check the costs for themselves.
Love the picture of you along Lake Geneva. The photo of the noose at Chillon Castle is a bit sobering. But it also serves as a reminder of the past which makes it a very powerful image.
Hi Erica. I totally agree. I felt I had to include that photo of the noose as the moment when zip came upon it did indeed have a very sobering impact on me. Thx for stopping by.
Looks like another place I need to visit. I love castles–even with the noose! Love this photo of you–expansive grin in an expressing place!
Thanks, Rose. I definitely was a happy camper, my whole time in Switzerland. 🙂