As expats, we are lucky to live in a region that offers so many varied ways in which we can spend our leisure time.

For those of you who are new here and looking for ideas of things to during the warm summer weekends, here is a selection of favorite excursions.  The descriptions are intended to spark your interest, while the links should point you to more detailed information.

10. Gruyères

http://www.la-gruyere.ch/en/

Absolutely idyllic, the village of Gruyères is a must-see.  Start out with a visit to the cheese factory and then walk up to the village itself, which is perched on top of a hill. Numerous restaurants in the main square offer the opportunity to try a traditional fondue (perhaps best to do on a day with cooler temperatures).  Enjoy the spectacular views of the countryside and explore the Château de Gruyères.  Gruyères is also the home of the HR Giger museum, exhibiting the work of the Swiss artist best known for winning the Best Visual Effects Oscar for the movie Alien.

9. Yvoire

www.yvoiretourism.com

Take a boat ride from Nyon across the lake to the French village of Yvoire.  Originally a fishing village founded 1306, today you will find winding streets lined with quaint shops, cafes and restaurants.   Enjoy a leisurely meal and then simply wander through the town or visit the other attractions, such as the Garden of Five Senses.   Yvoire belongs to the Association of Most Beautiful Villages of France.

8. Château de Chillon

www.chillon.ch/en/

Built on a rocky island at the edge of the lake, this historical monument is a must-see for all ages.  It covers almost 1000 years of history, with the oldest mention of the castle dating back to the year 1150. The exhibits are well thought-out and explained.  After visiting, you will not be surprised that this castle has inspired many artists and writers including Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Victor Hugo and Lord Byron as well as Delacroix and Courbet.  Guided tours require advanced booking.

7. Hiking around Les Diablerets

www.diablerets.ch

An excellent area for hiking – and a range of other activities – is from the village of Les Diablerets, at the foot of the Vaudois alpes.  The views and landscapes are quintessential Switzerland.  You can find hiking paths suitable for all ages and ability levels, at a height of 1000 to 3000 meters.  There are several small alpine lakes in this area, so bring your bathing gear to stop for a swim along the way.

6. Rochers-de-Naye

http://www.wanderland.ch/en/orte_detail.cfm?id=315407

http://www.lake-geneva-region.ch/en/StaedteSeen/Montreux/AusfluegeNatur/Rochers-de-Naye

Rochers-de-Naye is the name of a rock formation just above Montreux.  Take the train from Montreux and at the top you will have stunning views of the Lac Léman and the surrounding Alps.  Enjoy the panorama restaurant, as well as numerous hiking possibilities or the Alpine Garden.  It’s a  good idea to bring extra layers of clothing, as temperatures will be cooler up at 2,402 meters.

5. Bike Tour around Lac de Morat/Murtensee

http://ext.sbb.ch/1155/DaysOut/1155/Fribourg/The-Lake-Murten-region---active-relaxation!.aspx

For those who prefer biking to hiking, head to the quaint, medieval town of Murten located in the Fribourg region.  This comparatively small lake is the perfect size to bike around – manageable even for beginners.  After a bike ride, enjoy lunch or refreshments at one of the restaurants or cafes in the town center.  Also, don’t miss the opportunity to walk along the old town walls.

4. Vallorbe Caves and Jura Parc

http://www.lake-geneva-region.ch/en/jura/vallorbe

www.juraparc.ch

Head to Vallorbe, located 47 km from Lausanne on the Jura massif to experience the unique caves carved out by the river Orbe.  After touring the caves, explore walks in the surrounding area, or head to the Jura Parc to see bisons, wolves and bears.  Here you can also find a restaurant serving typical local food.

3.  Boat tour of Lac Léman

http://www.cgn.ch/

Although it's right at our doorstep on a daily basis, a boat tour offers an interesting new perspective on the lake.  Different options are available, including gourmet cruises.  Choose from one of the many routes on offer.  Be aware of the different timetables for each season, and don’t forget your camera!

2. Explore the Lavaux Vineyards

http://europeforvisitors.com/switzaustria/vaud/lavaux/

http://www.montreuxriviera.com/en/culture_leisure/Culture_Lavaux_en/activites_lavaux/trainvignes

http://www.myswitzerland.com/en/home/offers/bergbahnen/mont-pelerin-from-vevey-a-vista-across-the-lake.html

The terraced hillsides of the Lavaux – reaching from Lausanne to Montreux – are an unforgettable sight.  Walk among the vineyards and explore the small villages tucked between them, such as Cully, Epesses and Grandvaux.   Lutry is a good starting point for a 2-3 hour walk until St. Saphorin (from here you can take the train back to Lutry).   This is best to do on a clear day, and it’s a good idea to bring some sunscreen, drinks and a picnic.  There is also a train that takes you from Vevey to Chexbres, or another possibility to take it all in is via a funicular ride from Vevey to Mt. Pèlerin.

1. Zermatt

http://www.myswitzerland.com/en/destinations/resorts/holiday-destinations-in-switzerland/zermatt.html

Somewhat further afield, but one of Switzerland’s most famous attractions, the village of Zermatt at the foot of the Matterhorn is certainly worth a visit during summer time.  It is not only a ski area but offers numerous hiking possibilities with 400 km of walking trails.  One of the main attractions is Gornergrat – a cog railway that goes from Zermatt to an altitude of 3089 metres and offers unforgettable views of the Matterhorn and glaciers.  Also not to be missed is the Glacier Paradise / Klein Matterhorn.  At 3883 m, it’s the highest point in Europe reachable by a cable car.

Crissy Mueller