The second largest city on Lake Geneva, Lausanne is a beautiful locale to explore on the way to the Alps, or for a short stay before going home. Only one hour from Geneva, the hillside town is surrounded by vineyard-covered slopes descending right into Lac Leman. The proximity to the wine country and the mountains also makes it ideal for day trips as well.
The old town is dominated by the cathedral, which is Switzerland’s most impressive example of early Gothic style. Avant-garde architecture amid historic 18th and 19th-century classic defines the old town, with its atmosphere of cafés and boutiques at once quaint and cosmopolitan. But pace yourself as you browse the shops on the pedestrian Rue du Flon and Rue du Rôtillion, as they are quite steep.
Lausanne is also a dynamic and lively university town with live music concerts all year long, great events like the Fête de Lausanne which offers diverse attractions staged on the different squares of the town, or just sit back in the garden of the 5* Beau Rivage Palace, enjoying a drink at sunset on the waterfront in Ouchy.
Gourmets can try many regional specialties such as cabbage-filled sausage with leek gratin called "Papet Vaudois", or at another level, dine at Philippe Rochat or at Anne-Sophie Pic - 3 stars Michelin. And wine lovers won’t feel short changed, as Lausanne sits adjacent to the terraced vineyards of the Lavaux UNESCO world heritage region. Enjoy a private wine tasting at a local “Caveau” and try the local Chasselas white.
Culturally, Lausanne has the world-renowned Fondation de l'Hermitage, the collection of marginal art (“Art Brut”) in Beaulieu Castle, the Musée de l'Elysée photo museum, and others. Lausanne is also home to the International Olympic Committee and also the Olympic Museum. Finally, Lausanne is home to the world-famous Béjart Ballet.
Epic Europe is a luxury experiential adventure travel operator based in the Swiss Alps.
Epic Europe specializes in private bespoke itineraries for small groups. Experiencing the best of each region, from interacting with the local people and enjoying authentic regional food and wine, as well as time-honored traditions and festivals, to recreating in the alpine landscape, and truly understanding why the Alps are the birthplace of adventure travel. From custom ski, hiking, or cycling trips to building in city tours, cultural itineraries, or gastronomic discovery, these award-winning, multi-dimensional trips are tailored to our clients' wishes every time, and are not packaged tours. From Switzerland, Italy, and France's Alps, to world-class cultural cities and larger towns, Epic Europe can design a tailored adventure that fulfills your every need.
Would you like more information, or to have us create a tailored trip for you? We would be glad to begin the design process for your ultimate experience in the Alps.
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