Overview of Crêt de Montriond

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This location is recognized as one of the top panoramic viewpoints in Lausanne for travelers. The hill was formed by glacial activity thousands of years ago during the last ice age. Today, it serves as a public park where people enjoy the fresh air and scenery. You can see the entire city spread out below you from the very top.

The atmosphere here changes with every season, offering a new experience throughout the year 2026. Spring brings blooming flowers and vibrant green grass to the slopes of the hill. Summer offers cool shade under the large trees that line the winding walking paths. Autumn transforms the landscape into a sea of orange and red leaves for photographers.

Crêt de Montriond walking path guide

Your journey begins at the base of Milan Park, which is located south of the station. Follow the wide gravel paths that lead upward toward the summit of the hill. The incline is gentle enough for families with small children or elderly walking companions. This Crêt de Montriond walking path guide ensures you do not miss the best turns.

As you climb, you will pass the entrance to the Cantonal Botanical Garden on your right. This garden is free to enter and features thousands of unique alpine plant species. Many visitors choose to walk through the garden before continuing their ascent to the peak. The combination of exotic plants and local trees creates a very relaxing environment.

The main path is well-maintained and remains open for public use throughout the entire year. You should wear comfortable walking shoes even though the terrain is not very rugged or difficult. Most people reach the viewing platform at the top in less than fifteen minutes. This makes it one of the most accessible scenic walks in Lausanne 2026 for everyone.

Best Photography Spots and Views

The summit of the hill offers a spectacular 360-degree view of the entire Lausanne metropolitan area. You can clearly see the towers of the Lausanne Cathedral rising above the old town. To the south, the sparkling blue waters of Lake Geneva stretch toward the French border. The snow-capped peaks of the Alps provide a dramatic backdrop for your vacation photos.

For the best lighting, plan your visit during the golden hour just before the sun sets. The light hits the mountains across the lake, creating a beautiful glow on the water. This spot is frequently listed among the most instagrammable viewpoints in Lausanne 2026 by travel bloggers. Bring a tripod if you want to capture the city lights at twilight.

There are several benches located at the top where you can sit and enjoy the scenery. These spots are perfect for taking panoramic shots without any obstructions in your way. Look for the orientation table that identifies the different mountain peaks visible in the distance. You can spend an hour here just identifying the various landmarks across the horizon.

Essential Visitor Information for 2026

Visiting the Crêt de Montriond is completely free of charge for all residents and tourists alike. The park remains open twenty-four hours a day, allowing for sunrise or late-night visits. However, the nearby botanical garden usually closes its gates at five or six in the evening. Check the local signs for specific seasonal closing times during your visit in 2026.

Public transport makes reaching this destination very easy from any part of the city of Lausanne. Take the m2 metro line and get off at the Grancy or Délices station stops. From there, it is a short five-minute walk to the entrance of the Milan Park. Many people also choose to walk directly from the main train station in ten minutes.

There are public restrooms located near the playground at the bottom of the hill's slope. You will also find several drinking fountains with fresh Swiss water along the main walking path. A small seasonal cafe often operates near the park entrance during the warmer summer months. This is a great place to buy a cold drink after your walk.

Combining Your Walk with Local Sites

After enjoying the views, you can easily continue your walk down toward the lakeside district. The Ouchy lakeside promenade walks Lausanne offers are just a short distance away. Simply head south through the residential streets until you reach the shore of the lake. This extension adds about twenty minutes of pleasant walking to your daily city itinerary.

Milan Park itself is worth exploring for its large open lawns and beautiful flower displays. It is a popular spot for local events and outdoor markets during the spring season. You can watch locals playing pétanque or enjoy a picnic on the grass with friends. The park provides a lively contrast to the quiet atmosphere found at the hilltop.

If you have more energy, consider walking back toward the Flon district for some modern shopping. The transition from the natural hill to the urban center shows the diversity of Lausanne. You can find many excellent restaurants and cafes to rest your feet after your long walk. This route perfectly balances nature, history, and modern Swiss culture in one afternoon.