Locals and visitors from around the world greatly appreciate these gems of Swiss naval heritage. Featuring resounding whistles and paddle wheels that stir the waves, these ships are an attraction in themselves. Embark on a beautiful steamboat and enjoy an unforgettable experience while holidaying in Switzerland! During the summer season, the modern vessels or the eight steam-driven ones that constitute the world’s most prestigious Belle-Epoque fleet offer several trips a day departing from Lausanne. You can choose among approx. forty destinations on the Swiss and French shores departing from Lausanne, the Olympic Capital. Nyon, Montreux, Morges and Vevey, some of the most beautiful cities in the canton of Vaud, present themselves in a new light when seen from Lake Geneva.
Take a cruise with the CGN
on Lake Geneva
Board one of the General Navigation Company’s (CGN) ships and embark on an unforgettable cruise on Lake Geneva.
All your senses come alive on the water and in the fresh air. Here you can take the time to look at the exceptional panoramas the canton of Vaud offers in the gleaming sunlight: from the La Côte vineyards to the terraced Lavaux UNESCO vineyards, always with Alps in the background.
This unusual and relaxing means of transport allows you to see or land at many of the region’s must-visit sites such as the Castle of Chillon in Montreux, the castles of Nyon and Morges and the Olympic Museum in Lausanne. You will enjoy an unrestricted view of the Gothic cathedral of Lausanne rising above the centre of the old town. But there is also the sculpture in the shape of a fork opposite the Alimentarium, the statue of Charlie Chaplin in Vevey and that of Freddie Mercury in Montreux.
In addition to the regular crossings, enjoy some dolce vita moments during a romantic or gourmet cruise. Each celebration such as Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day or Saint Patrick’s provides the opportunity to share lovely moments between friends and embark on a festive cruise. But there’s more. Offers for families and unique events such as the Swiss and French national day, when you can watch the magnificent fireworks from the lake. Simply a must!
The legacy of a blessed era
The term “Belle Epoque” refers to the period from the end of the 19th century to the First World War. During those worry-free and peaceful times, the shores of Lake Geneva became a sought-after destination of the international high society that was keen on leisure travel. Rapid developments such as tourism, the hotel industry and transport marked the period between the two centuries. The remarkably dynamic Lake Geneva Region left some splendid legacy such as well-preserved leisure infrastructure.
One of them is the CGN’s Belle-Epoque fleet with its eight steamboats. Among them is “La Suisse” featuring figureheads at the bow and stern that sculpted in the wood and covered with gold-leaf. The train leading to Rochers-de-Naye above Montreux offers several restored historic carriages and thus a journey back in time. Prestigious buildings on the shores of Lake Geneva are also part of the regional heritage. There’s the Beau-Rivage Palace in Lausanne Ouchy, the Montreux Palace on the Vaudois Riviera or the Casino of Morges on La Côte. These buildings feature beautiful architectural art between Art Nouveau and Neo-Baroque: wood panelling, wooden floors, chandeliers and gilding bear witness to a glorious past.
