After three days of extensive travel, today was all about taking it easy. I started late and didn’t venture far from home – just four train stops away to Montreux, affectionately known as the Swiss Riviera. And once you’re there, you instantly understand why it earned this nickname.
Montreux-Vevey-Riviera Railway Adventures
My plan for the day was to experience two trains of the Montreux-Vevey-Riviera railway company. I’d already taken their most famous route, the Montreux-Oberland Bahn from Montreux via Gstaad and Zweisimmen to Lake Thun, earlier this year. So today, I set my sights on the two remaining railways: Montreux to Rochers-de-Naye, and Vevey to Les Pléiades.
Ascending to Rochers-de-Naye
I started with the Rochers-de-Naye line, which climbs all the way up to an impressive 1,970 meters above sea level. The railway offers stunning views over Lake Geneva and the Alps. In the beginning, the best views are on the right side of the train, but as you climb higher, they switch to the left. Luckily for me, I only managed to get a seat on the left side as the train was quite packed when I boarded.
However, as we ascended, the magnificent views gradually became obscured by clouds. By the time we reached the summit, everything was completely covered, and there was no view whatsoever. Slightly disappointed but still eager to explore, I decided to stay on the train and go two stops further down to Jaman.
An Impromptu Climb to Dent de Jaman
From the Jaman stop, it’s a short five-minute walk to the foot of the Dent de Jaman summit. The summit itself is another 130 meters up in altitude – a challenge that was mostly shrouded in clouds. With 40 minutes until the next train (or the option to catch a later one), I faced a decision: what to do?
I told myself I couldn’t come all this way and not attempt the summit, so I decided to go for it. It took me less than 15 minutes to climb all the way up. “Climb” might be a strong word as there was no need for any special gear (in fact, a dog named “Sky” made the ascent alongside me), but I did have to use my hands at times.
At the top, I had time for a few pictures of the not-so-magnificent view within the clouds and a victory selfie with the summit cross before descending and just making it back in time for the train down to Montreux.
A Scenic Route to Vevey
From Montreux, I needed to get to Vevey for the second part of my railway adventure. Instead of taking the boring train route, I opted for the more scenic option – a boat ride across Lake Geneva. It was a lovely interlude between my mountain excursions.
Les Pléiades: A Different Railway Experience
In Vevey, I boarded a train bound for Les Pléiades. However, this railway proved to be less impressive than the Montreux – Rochers-de-Naye line on several fronts. The views were less spectacular, the altitude reached was much lower, and the trains were very modern compared to the vintage charm of the Rochers-de-Naye line (though I learned that even those are slowly being replaced now).
Feeling a bit underwhelmed at the top, I decided to walk down one stop and catch the same train I’d come up on for my descent.
Reflections on a Relaxed Day
And that’s how this fourth day of my Swiss travel adventure came to an end. It was a shorter, more relaxed day, but still filled with amazing views and even a challenging but enjoyable mountain hike.
As I headed home, I found myself looking forward to a change of pace for the next two days. I’ll be switching from trains to bikes and exploring with my girlfriend – a new adventure within the adventure!
This day reminded me that sometimes, the best travel experiences come when you slow down, take it easy, and allow yourself the flexibility to make spontaneous decisions. Whether it’s deciding to climb a cloudy summit or opting for a scenic boat ride instead of a quick train journey, these moments often become the most memorable parts of a trip.
As I drift off to sleep tonight, I’m grateful for Switzerland’s incredible public transport system that allows for such diverse experiences, even on a “chill” day. I can’t wait to see what tomorrow’s bike tour will bring!