Best attractions and places to see around La Tour-de-Peilz include a blend of historical sites, cultural institutions, and natural landscapes. Situated on the Swiss Riviera between Vevey and Montreux, the town offers views of Lake Geneva and the Savoy Alps. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, from medieval castles to terraced vineyards. The area is characterized by its historical charm and scenic environment.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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"The view over the lake is absolutely breathtaking—such a peaceful and scenic spot! And the wineries in the area are perfect for cycling, especially with the calm, low-traffic roads. It’s a dream route for wine lovers and nature enthusiasts alike!"
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Les Avants The village was one of the first ski resorts in Switzerland. In the nineteenth century, the spa town experienced a certain tourist development with the construction of the first hotels by the Dufour family. The construction of the Jaman tunnel in 1905, which provided a rail link with the Pays d'Enhaut, allowed the resort to become a strong tourist destination until the First World War, notably with the collaboration of the architect Louis Villard. Served by one of the first electrified railways, with a steep slope and no rack railways, the village is a popular destination for the English. It is also home to Switzerland's first bobsleigh run (which later became a toboggan run) and an ice rink. It was on this ice, which was actually tennis courts converted into an ice rink below the "Grand Hôtel des Avants", that the first European Ice Hockey Championship was held in 1910. Since 1910, the Les Avants - Sonloup funicular (still in operation, with the two carriages and the historic machines renovated between June 2012 and January 2013) has been operating on the Sonloup site, allowing sledders to climb to the top of the slopes again. The first war, especially the crisis of 1929, halted development and the large hotels gradually closed. Now competing with the many winter sports resorts created after the 1939-45 war, Les Avants was never to experience the tourist attraction it enjoyed at the beginning of the century. Ernest Hemingway had recently lived in the village for a few months in 1922 (at the "Pension de la Forêt" on the outskirts of Chamby) and wrote about his experiences and pleasures of the sled race there in several chapters of "A Farewell to Arms". In the second half of the century, the village developed into a residential area and experienced a tourist activity such as hiking and some winter activities in the low mountain range (sledding, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ski touring). Text / Source: SIA Les Avants https://www.lesavants.ch/histoire
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Les Avants The charming village of Les Avants is located at an altitude of about 1000 meters and is part of the municipality of Montreux. It is at the gateway to the Pays d'Enhaut and the Vaud Prealps. The village was one of the first ski resorts in Switzerland and was home to the first Swiss bobsleigh run. 10 km from Lake Geneva, nestled under the Dent de Jaman and the Rochers de Naye, Les Avants is an ideal place for hiking. Many marked hiking trails, including the Daffodil Trail, attract hikers, especially in May when the hills are covered with the white flowers of daffodils. Also to discover is the flower clock, one of the oldest in Europe, on the Place de la Gare. Text / Source: SIA Les Avants https://www.lesavants.ch/
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On foot or by train, for the pleasure of a housewarming or steaming, for a picnic or an alpine restaurant, for the alpine garden or for paragliding, the ROCHERS DE NAYE are the essential destination for thousands of mountain lovers, all different!
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In the execution cell, dangling from the rope, you have a great view of the lake for a short time
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Summit quickly reached from the train station with great views
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I recommend the high pass and a stop in Granvaux. The route is through the vineyards, with exceptional views and respect for the farm workers. Little traffic, some steep climbs, but we arrive with enthusiasm. In Granvaux, a "Corto Maltaise" village, take the time to go to the restaurant terraces and enjoy an ice cream: with the view, it has a different flavor!
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The Château de Chillon is located on the shores of Lake Geneva, near Montreux in Veytaux, Switzerland. This medieval and romantic castle is a precious historical jewel that has been enthroned on its rocky island for almost a millennium. The castle is located on the eastern shore of Lake Geneva, in a picturesque spot between Montreux and Veytaux. It has become famous thanks to literary works such as “La Nouvelle Héloïse” by Jean-Jacques Rousseau and “The Prisoner of Chillon” by Lord Byron. The castle dates back to the thirteenth century and is one of the best preserved medieval castles in Europe. In addition to its historical significance, the Château de Chillon also offers wonderful exhibitions, animations and events. You can also rent rooms for special occasions.
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La Tour-de-Peilz is rich in history. You can visit the 13th-century Castle of La Tour-de-Peilz, which served as a fortress and customs post. Its towers, walls, ramparts, and moat are historical monuments. The town's historic center also retains its medieval character with streets like "rue des Remparts" and houses along the Grand-Rue. Additionally, the famous painter Gustave Courbet spent his final years here, and you can follow a guided tour focusing on his footsteps.
Yes, the Swiss Museum of Games (Musée Suisse du Jeu) is housed within the Castle of La Tour-de-Peilz. This unique museum, inaugurated in 1987, occupies the first and second floors of the castle, offering a distinct cultural experience.
The town is situated directly on Lake Geneva, offering picturesque lake views and opportunities for romantic promenades along its shores. The Savoy Alps provide a stunning backdrop. You can also explore the Parcours nature champêtre, part of the larger "Parcours nature de La Tour-de-Peilz," to discover the commune's biodiversity. For panoramic vistas, consider visiting the Mont Pèlerin Plein Ciel Tower, which offers magnificent views of the Alps and the Lake Geneva basin.
Families can enjoy several attractions. The Chillon Castle offers various guided tours and exhibitions suitable for all ages. The Lavaux Vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are also family-friendly with their scenic trails and views. Additionally, the AstroPléiades Astronomy Trail is an educationally interesting panorama place with beautiful views over Lake Geneva and the Alps.
Yes, the region offers various hiking opportunities. You can find mountain hikes, including challenging routes like the Rochers de Naye or Dent de Lys. For more options, explore the Mountain Hikes around La Tour-de-Peilz guide. The Les Avants Village is also a popular starting point for hiking trails, including the famous Daffodil Trail.
Cyclists can enjoy a variety of routes. There are road cycling routes that take you through the scenic Lavaux Vineyards with views of Lake Geneva. For detailed information on routes, including distances and difficulty, check out the Road Cycling Routes around La Tour-de-Peilz guide.
Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking views, especially from the Lavaux Vineyards, which offer stunning panoramas of the Alps and Lake Geneva. The historical significance and well-preserved nature of sites like Chillon Castle are also highly appreciated, with many enjoying the guided tours and exhibitions. The mild climate of the region is often highlighted as a pleasant aspect of the visit.
Yes, you can find several running trails along Lake Geneva. Popular options include the Lakeside Promenade from Burier or La Tour-de-Peilz, offering moderate distances. For a comprehensive list of routes, including the Daffodil Trail, refer to the Running Trails around La Tour-de-Peilz guide.
Beyond the main attractions, explore the opulent villas and mansions scattered outside the historic town center, such as La Faraz, La Doges, and the castles of Sully, Burier, and La Poneyre. The Villa Augusta, built in 1851, is another notable historical residence that offers a glimpse into the region's past grandeur.
The Lavaux Vineyards are a UNESCO World Heritage site, spanning almost 14 km along Lake Geneva. This region is renowned for its unique terraced vineyards, supported by ancient stone walls, and offers spectacular panoramic views of the Alps. It's a testament to centuries of winemaking tradition and a truly iconic landscape.
Gustave Courbet, the famous French painter, spent his final years and passed away in La Tour-de-Peilz in 1877. A bronze bust dedicated to freedom, created by Courbet, is located near the church. You can also find a school and a street named after him in the town. Guided tours are available that trace Courbet's footsteps through La Tour-de-Peilz, offering insights into his life and work here.


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