Surrounded by breathtaking scenery and combined with a traditional yet atmosphere, Lake Geneva’s second-largest city is an idyllic location for vacations exploring the many charms of southern Switzerland. Hotels in Lausanne situate you in the lovely canton of Vaud, with a plethora of activities and destinations to explore using Lausanne as your base. From romantic strolls along the lake to wine tastings in the area’s lush vineyards, a hotel in Lausanne is the perfect getaway.
Nestled on the northern shoreline of Lake Geneva, Lausanne is a delightful alternative to the hustle and bustle of Geneva. Surrounded by vineyard-covered hills, the city boasts a traditional medieval center completed by grand Gothic architecture and car-free streets. As a result, a hotel in Lausanne offers travelers a rejuvenating escape in a city with plenty to do and see. Along Lausanne’s shore is the popular waterfront area of Ouchy, which charms with a lovely lakeside promenade and neo-gothic Château d’Ouchy. From Ouchy you can jump on a pleasure cruise and enjoy the drama of the lake from the water, or disembark to explore the nearby Swiss towns of Vevey and Montreux. Lausanne is located on three rolling hills and surrounded by acres of UNESCO-listed vineyards. A stroll through the Lavaux vineyards is an exceptional way to indulge in Lake Geneva’s stunning scenery, which easily explored by a series of meandering footpaths among the vines. Stop and try some of the delicious wine’s produced here in authentic cellars. Home of the International Olympic Committee since 1914, Lausanne’s connection to all things Olympic Games can be found at its Olympic Museum – a dedicated space which spans the history of the Games from Ancient Greece to present day.
With the stunning Savoy-Alps in France to the south and the rolling Lavaux vineyards in the north, Lake Geneva (or Lac Léman) is truly spectacular. With a hotel in Lausanne; the towns, mountains and shorelines are yours to explore at your own pace, and you’ll never get over the view from your hotel balcony every morning. From Ouchy you can take a ferry to Vevey, another charming Swiss town on Lake Geneva’s shore. Rent a bike and explore the area’s many cycling routes through the valley, and try and find the monument of Charlie Chaplin, who spent the last 25 years of his life in Vevey. Foodies will have a great time at the Alimentarium – a food museum with interactive exhibits and plenty to taste-test while you’re at it. The museum is marked by a sculpture of a large silver fork sticking up from the lake floor. Only 15 minutes’ by boat from Vevey is the charming Montreux, a traditional Swiss resort famous for attracting everyone from writers to rock stars. Every summer the town holds a renowned Jazz Festival which sees the area swarm with music fans, and the pretty Chillon Castle is a medieval wonder that’s an easy boat excursion from your hotel in Lausanne.
In the far west corner of Lake Geneva is the city of Geneva, a smart and stylish gem that’s a great daytrip from your hotel in Lausanne. Here, luxury seeps into every corner of the city which is made even more spectacular by a backdrop of Alpine mountains and baby blue lake water. If you want to indulge in the best luxury shopping in Switzerland, Geneva will not disappoint. Along with an abundance of designer labels, the city is also the best place to pick up some of the world’s best chocolate. The famous Jet d’Eau shoots a stream of water 450 feet into the air and is visible from all over the city. The city also offers a variety of guided and self-guided tours to get an idea of Geneva’s illustrious history through its architecture. Tours of Geneva’s old town, dominated by St Peter’s Cathedral, should not be missed while on vacation on Lake Geneva. When staying in one of Lausanne’s many hotels, this hub of history and luxury only a short drive along the shore.