The Iconic Montreux Lakeside Promenade

For practical details and last-minute changes, use Ville de Montreux.

For official information, visit Château de Chillon.

Walking here during the golden hour is a peaceful experience. The sun sets directly across the lake towards France. This creates a vibrant display of pink and orange colors. Check out our Montreux lakeside promenade guide for more details.

Photographers love this spot for the clear reflections on the water. You can capture the famous Freddy Mercury statue against the sky. Most people gather near the Place du Marché for the best angles. The atmosphere is lively yet relaxing as the day ends.

In 2026, the promenade remains well-maintained and accessible for everyone. It is free to visit at any time of day. Most travelers arrive about 30 minutes before the sun goes down. This allows you to find the perfect spot for your camera.

You can also find several lakeside bars along this route. Enjoying a cold drink while the sky changes is wonderful. The mountains across the lake provide a sharp, dark silhouette. It is a classic Swiss experience you cannot miss.

Sunset Views from Chillon Castle

Chillon Castle is an architectural gem on the lake's edge. It looks stunning when the evening light hits the stone walls. This historic fortress provides a dramatic backdrop for sunset photos. You can walk there easily from the city center.

The Chillon Castle walk route offers many great vantage points. Try standing on the small beach just south of the castle. From there, you see the sun setting behind the medieval towers. The mountains in the distance turn deep shades of blue.

Entry to the castle grounds is free after closing hours. You can still enjoy the exterior views and the lake breeze. It is one of the most romantic spots in the region. Many couples visit here for a quiet evening moment in 2026.

The walk from Montreux to Chillon takes about 45 minutes. The path is flat and follows the water the whole way. You will pass beautiful villas and private gardens along the route. It is a great way to build up an appetite for dinner.

The lighting at the castle changes every few minutes at dusk. The stone walls reflect the orange and purple hues of the sky. This makes it a favorite for professional and amateur photographers alike. Bring a tripod if you want to capture the water's movement.

Panoramic Beauty at Rochers-de-Naye

For a high-altitude experience, head up to Rochers-de-Naye. This mountain peak sits at 2,042 meters above sea level. You can reach the top via a scenic cogwheel train ride. The journey takes about 55 minutes from Montreux station.

Once at the summit, you get a 360-degree view of the Alps. The sun sets over the entire length of Lake Geneva. It is truly one of the best sunset spots in Montreux. You might even see the Jura Mountains in the distance.

Explore the Rochers-de-Naye hiking trails before the sun goes down. Make sure to check the train schedule for the last descent. Temperatures drop quickly at this height, so bring a warm jacket. The alpine glow on the snowy peaks is unforgettable.

The train ride itself is a major part of the adventure. You will pass through forests and meadows as you climb higher. The view of Montreux getting smaller below is quite impressive. Tickets cost around 70 CHF for a round trip without discounts.

In 2026, the summit restaurant offers evening meals with a view. Booking a table in advance is highly recommended for sunset. You can watch the sky change while enjoying traditional Swiss fondue. It is a bucket-list experience for many Swiss travelers.

The Lavaux Vineyard Terraces

The Lavaux vineyards are a UNESCO World Heritage site nearby. These terraced vines offer a unique perspective of the lake. The golden hour light makes the green leaves look like gold. It is a short train or bus ride from Montreux.

Walking through the Lavaux vineyard walking trails is a must-do activity. You can stop at a local cellar for a glass of wine. Watching the sunset with a drink in hand is very relaxing. The stone walls hold the heat from the day's sun.

The village of Epesses or Cully offers fantastic elevated views. You can see the boats crossing the lake far below. The contrast between the blue water and green vines is striking. This spot is perfect for those who enjoy nature and history.

The terraces date back to the 11th century. Monks originally built these walls to grow grapes on steep slopes. Today, they provide some of the best sunset spots in Montreux's surroundings. The walk is mostly downhill if you start from Chexbres-Village.

Expect to spend about two to three hours here. The paths are paved and easy to follow with signs. In 2026, many local winemakers offer sunset tasting sessions. It is a sophisticated way to end your day in Switzerland.

Elevated Views from Montreux Old Town

The Old Town, or Vieille Ville, sits above the main city. It features steep cobblestone streets and charming old buildings. This area is much quieter than the busy lakeside docks. You will find a more local feel in these narrow alleys.

A Montreux Old Town walking tour reveals several hidden terraces. The area around the Saint-Vincent Church offers a great lookout. You can see over the rooftops toward the lake and mountains. The sunset light reflects beautifully off the historic church windows.

This spot is ideal for escaping the 2026 summer crowds. There are small benches tucked away in tiny squares. It feels like stepping back in time while watching the day end. The walk up is steep but the view is worth it.

You can reach the Old Town in ten minutes from the station. Follow the signs for "Vieille Ville" up the stone stairs. The architecture here is very different from the grand lakeside hotels. It shows the humble roots of this famous resort town.

Many locals walk their dogs here during the golden hour. The atmosphere is friendly and very authentic. You can hear the church bells ringing across the valley. It is a peaceful place to reflect on your Swiss journey.

Sunset Magic at the Gorges du Chauderon

The Gorges du Chauderon offer a wilder sunset experience. This natural ravine is located just minutes from the Old Town. A wooden path leads you deep into the forest and cliffs. It is a cool place to visit on hot summer days.

The Gorges du Chauderon hike is perfect for nature lovers. As the sun sets, the light filters through the tall trees. This creates a mystical atmosphere within the deep rocky gorge. You can hear the rushing water of the Baye de Montreux river.

While you won't see the horizon, the lighting is spectacular. The mossy rocks glow in the soft evening light. It is a great spot for artistic nature photography. Ensure you wear sturdy shoes as the path can be damp.

The trail eventually leads up towards the village of Glion. From there, you get a wide view of the lake again. It combines a forest walk with a classic panoramic finish. This route is less known by most 2026 tourists.

Plan for about 90 minutes to complete the main loop. The entrance is located at the top of the Old Town. It is a hidden gem for those seeking quiet. Use our sunset walking guide to find the exact trailhead.