The Lavaux vineyard terraces stretch for about 30 kilometres along the northern shore of Lake Geneva. Their present-day terraces can be traced back to the 11th century. In Lavaux, history is made visible in the landscape rather than appearing only in individual buildings. Vaud lies north of Lake Geneva and encompasses the Jura, the Vaud Alps and part of the Swiss Plateau. This diversity offers a range of cultural and scenic discoveries.

Terraces, Roman traces and a lakeside castle

In Avenches, Roman history leads to the remains of Aventicum, once the capital of the Helvetii. The Musée romain d’Avenches presents these relics; its collection includes mosaics, reliefs and a gold bust of Emperor Marcus Aurelius. Remains of the theatre, amphitheatre, a temple and sanctuary, the forum baths and the East Gate are also accessible at any time. Check the latest information about the site before your visit.

The Château de Chillon offers a different historical perspective: this imposing fortress has stood in a landscape shaped by Lake Geneva and the Alps since the 12th century. Veytaux-Chillon railway station is a six-minute walk from the castle. Visitors can choose from self-guided and audio-guided tours, guided workshops, costumed tours, holiday workshops for children and themed birthday packages. Check in advance which options are available on your chosen date. The Verrée Vaudoise combines a prior tour of the fortress with a wine tasting for groups and individual visitors; it is also advisable to check the participation requirements.

Museums devoted to sport, food and craftsmanship

In Lausanne, the Musée Olympique is dedicated to the spirit of the Olympic Movement and is the only official museum of the International Olympic Committee. Its permanent exhibition explores the origins of the Olympic Games, the competitions and the spirit of the athletes. Screens, objects and sports equipment present these topics in different ways. The museum also features temporary exhibitions, a park adorned with works of art and a panoramic restaurant overlooking Lake Geneva and the Alps.

The Alimentarium in Vevey is the world’s first museum devoted entirely to food. Exhibitions, culinary workshops, guided tours, meetings and educational activities explore questions about food in the past, present and future. As activities may change, it is worth checking the current programme before your trip. The Espace Horloger Vallée de Joux, by contrast, focuses on the history of haute horlogerie in the region. Complicated timepieces, historical pieces and virtual equipment, together with modern interactive techniques, introduce watchmaking professions and watchmaking. Those interested in printing can visit Le Cadratin in Echallens, a typographic workshop where traditional work on historic presses is demonstrated; check visitor information in advance.

Forest and lake in the Vallée de Joux

The Forêt du Risoud runs along the western side of the Vallée de Joux for about 15 kilometres, forming a natural border with France. At 2,200 hectares, it is Europe’s largest continuous forest. Particularly rare spruce trees are sought after by violin makers worldwide because of their suitability as tonewood. Experts estimate that only one in 10,000 trees meets the required criteria. Along the La Thomassette–Mézery forest loop, SuisseMobile Route 551, ten illustrated panels explain tonewood spruce and violin making.

Lac de Joux offers a different way to experience the region: activities include windsurfing, stand-up paddleboarding, water skiing, kitesurfing, canoeing, kayaking and pedal boating. The WaiWake Wakesurf Club offers wakeboarding and wakesurfing, as well as swimming and aperitif outings. At Le Rocheray, children and adults can try wakeboarding and water skiing with the Ski Nautique et Wakeboard Club du lac de Joux. Activities also include Baby Ski for younger children; experienced skiers can use a ski jump and a timed slalom course. The 40-seat Caprice II offers seasonal outings, allowing visitors to see the Vallée de Joux from the water. Check operating dates before your trip. When conditions allow, the lake freezes over completely and becomes a natural ice rink.

Explore on foot, by bike and in winter

The canton offers both leisurely walking routes and challenging hikes. The landscapes crossed by these paths include lakeside and mountain areas, the Lavaux vineyards, the Jura and the Vaud Alps. In the Lake Geneva region, you can explore the landscape on foot, by bicycle or mountain bike, by train and by boat. Wine tourism in Vaud also includes cycling experiences centred on regional heritage.

Winter brings other opportunities. At Col du Mollendruz, an extensive network of cross-country ski trails winds through open landscapes and forests, for both classic and skating styles. Snowshoe trails and winter walking routes cross the surrounding ridges and clearings. Several routes on groomed snow are located near Lac de Joux, at the Marchairuz and Mollendruz passes, and close to villages and public transport. Check snow and route conditions before setting out.

Traditional events in Vaud include carnivals, also known as Brandons, harvest festivals and Désalpes, which have continued for centuries. Event dates vary. You can tailor your discoveries to your interests, from archaeological collections and museums to cultural landscapes and activities on the lake or in the snow.

Discover more destinations: Nyon, Morges, Avenches, Aigle, Riviera-Pays-D'enhaut, Lavaux, Lausanne, Cossonay, Orbe, Payerne, Yverdon, La Vallée, Aubonne, Oron, Northern Vaud Jura, Gros-De-Vaud, Broye-Vully.

For the overarching travel overview: Switzerland.