Lavaux, between Lausanne and Montreux, combines a flat cycle path along Lake Geneva with terraced vineyards listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, rising in tiers on the hillsides — one of the most scenic family rides in French-speaking Switzerland.
A lakeside path beneath terraced vineyards
From Cully, in the heart of the Lavaux vineyards, the path follows Lake Geneva toward Vevey and then Montreux, offering a continuous view of the terraced vineyards on one side and the French Alps across the lake on the other. Expect around 20 km one way, on an almost entirely flat route that passes through several typical wine villages such as Rivaz and Saint-Saphorin.
Getting the family ride right
With barely 80 m of cumulative elevation gain over the whole route, this ride poses no difficulty for young kids pedalling on their own. The path, mostly separated from traffic, crosses a few villages where it’s worth staying alert on short sections shared with vehicles.
When to go
April to October, when good weather lets you make the most of the lakeside restaurant terraces in Vevey and Montreux. Early autumn, harvest season in Lavaux, brings a special atmosphere with vineyard activity visible from the path.
Good to know
Vevey and Montreux offer a wide choice of accommodation and direct train access from Lausanne or Geneva, with the option to extend the stay to Chillon Castle, at the eastern end of Montreux, to combine cycling with heritage.
