The breathtaking Lavaux wine terraces are one of Switzerland’s most unique landscapes, offering an experience filled with historic vineyards, charming villages, and panoramic views of Lake Geneva. Here’s my itinerary from Vevey, through the vineyards and medieval villages, all the way to Cully, and how you can enjoy a day in Lavaux!
Getting to Vevey: By Train or Steamboat
The easiest way to start your day trip to Lavaux is by heading to Vevey, which is accessible by both train and steamboat. If you’re already exploring Switzerland by rail, the train is a quick and direct route. But for a more scenic start, try the CGN steamboat on Lake Geneva. From Lausanne, the boat to Vevey takes about an hour and offers a beautiful journey with views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The ticket prices vary by route, but as a guideline, a single ticket costs around CHF 28 (discounts may apply if you have a Swiss Travel Pass). For those in no rush, this waterway experience is truly special!
Exploring Vevey’s Lakeside
Arriving in Vevey, I couldn’t resist a stroll along the stunning lakeside promenade. The area has plenty of spots to relax, plus a free open-air gym, ideal for anyone who wants to get active while enjoying lake views. Vevey is also home to Nestlé’s global headquarters, and while the building itself is private, it’s impressive to see the hub of this iconic brand situated right along the lakeside.
Climbing into the Lavaux Vineyards
From Vevey’s lakeside, I began the climb into the UNESCO-listed Lavaux vineyards. Stretching across 30 kilometers of terraced slopes, the Lavaux Vineyard Terraces are a stunning sight. These vineyards date back to the 11th century and are part of Switzerland’s largest wine-growing region. The terraces, with their neat stone walls and sweeping views, are a testament to centuries of agricultural tradition and human effort. Walking through the rows of vines, with Lake Geneva glistening below, it’s easy to see why Lavaux is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
A Medieval Detour: St. Saphorin
As I continued along the vineyard trails, I took a scenic detour to St. Saphorin, a picturesque medieval village nestled on the hillside. This charming village is known for its narrow stone streets, traditional wine cellars, and centuries-old buildings that seem to transport you back in time. Wandering through St. Saphorin is like stepping into history, and it’s a perfect spot to pause, admire the architecture, and even sample a local wine. This hidden gem is well worth the detour for anyone looking to explore authentic Swiss villages.
Walking Through Rivaz: A Wine Lover’s Paradise
Back on the main path, I passed through Rivaz, another idyllic wine-making village in the heart of Lavaux. Rivaz is packed with family-owned wineries, many of which offer tastings and tours. As I walked, I found a small self-serve wine station, where you can purchase a bottle and pay by the honor system. It’s a delightful and trusting custom, allowing you to grab a local wine to enjoy during your walk or later with a meal. Rivaz truly embodies the Swiss wine-making spirit and is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates fine wines and a laid-back atmosphere.
Evening Stroll Through Epesses and Down to Cully
Continuing on, I reached Epesses, a small but lovely village surrounded by vineyards that overlook Lake Geneva. By this time, the sun was beginning to set, casting a golden glow over the terraces and lake. Walking downhill toward Cully, the evening light gave the vineyards a magical, almost dreamlike atmosphere. The views are incredible at this time, with soft colors reflecting off the lake and shadowing the mountains in the background.
Wrapping Up in Cully
Finally, I arrived in Cully, a charming lakeside town and a hub for Lavaux wine tourism. With the Cully Jazz Festival held annually, it’s a lively destination, although on this quiet evening it was a peaceful spot to end my day. I headed to the Cully train station, ready for an easy ride home on the Swiss public transport network. Bern’s trains are timely and efficient, making it simple to connect back to Lausanne or other nearby cities.
Tips for Exploring Lavaux
- Take advantage of the Swiss Travel Pass – This pass gives unlimited access to trains, buses, and boats, making it perfect for a Lavaux day trip.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes – The vineyard trails involve some uphill and downhill walking, and sturdy shoes will make the journey much more enjoyable.
- Plan for golden hour – If you can, time your visit to catch the evening light over the terraces, as the sunset view over Lake Geneva is unforgettable.
- Bring water and a snack – While there are some village cafes and self-serve wine stops, you’ll want water and perhaps a picnic snack for your journey.
- Pack a camera – With its stunning landscapes and historic villages, Lavaux is a photographer’s paradise, especially around golden hour.
Why Lavaux is a Must-Visit Destination in Switzerland
With its unique blend of natural beauty, historic wine terraces, and charming villages, Lavaux is a one-of-a-kind destination that offers a perfect balance of Swiss culture and scenery. From the vineyards to the lake, and from Vevey to Cully, this day trip was full of memorable experiences. If you’re visiting Switzerland, a journey through Lavaux is an incredible way to see the country’s rich landscapes and wine-making heritage.
So, whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a lover of beautiful landscapes, make Lavaux a top priority on your Swiss itinerary!
