When most people come to Switzerland, they usually spend all of their time in the German-speaking part of the country. And with such stunning locations as Zermatt, Lucerne, St Moritz and Interlaken, who can blame them.
But as a long-time resident of Switzerland, and someone who has been to almost every corner, I can tell you the French-speaking part of Switzerland is also full of hidden gems; places not as many people visit, but are just as stunning as their German-speaking brethren!
So, in this post, I want to show you some of the best places I have discovered so you too can enjoy this stunning part of Switzerland.
The French-Speaking Cities in Switzerland
Things to do in Geneva
There are plenty of things to do in Geneva, Switzerland before you head to the Alps. [Photo by By Rzn Torbey – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link]
Located right on the shores of Lake Geneva, with views of the distant Alps and a magical historic center, there is more than enough to do in Geneva. Add to that the unique museums (International Museum of the Red Cross and Red Crescent, Patek Philippe watch museum) and French-influenced food, and you have a great city on your hands.
But Geneva might be a little big for some people. It certainly has expensive accommodation too. Which is why I also suggest people head a little further down the lake to the next big city, Lausanne.
Thinsg to do in Lausanne
Magical Chillon Castle makes an easy day trip from Lausanne, Switzerland. [Photo by By Zacharie Grossen – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link]
But you also can’t spend time in Switzerland without heading to the alps…
The Swiss-French Alps
The stunning Lac de Moiry in the French speaking part of Switzerland’s Alps. [By Glaurung: Samuel Rosset – own, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link]
There are some insanely picturesque valleys in this area, many of which your average foreign tourist has no clue about.
Val d’Anniviers
Right next door to Zermatt, this valley, and its secret side valleys are definitely worth a visit. Some of the highest peaks in the country are located around here, so the scenery and outdoor activities are to die for.
The views from Cabane de Moiry [Photo by the Author]
Val d’Hérens
Val d’Hérens one of the stunning valleys in the French Speaking Swiss Alps [Photo by Henk Monster [CC BY 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons]
Swiss Chocolate & Cheese
The charming village of Gruyeres Switzerland. [Photo by By GGDELABAS – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link]
The hilltop town of Gruyere is unfortunately not a place most people seem to have on their radar, but I can only say it is a shame for them. It’s famous for its cheese, which you may have already seen on a menu, or in your local deli. But it’s also worth visiting to see the town.
It is one of the cutest, and most well-preserved hilltop towns in the country. With stunning views of the mountains and grass-covered hills around, it has a lot to offer. The town itself is quite small, but it still has a castle right on the top, and a rather bizarre museum and bar from the infamous H.R. Giger in town.
Could this be Switzerland’s weirdest bar? Inside the H.R. Giger Museum’s Alien bar. Xxlstier [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Wikimedia Commons]
And while you are in the area, you can make a day of it and pop into Maison Callier, one of the best chocolate makers in the country. They have a tour, workshops, a cafe and a shop. So, you can get your fill and gifts all in the one spot.
Unique Experiences in French-Speaking Switzerland
And last, but certainly not least, I thought I would mention a few local experiences you might want to check out while in the area. After all, it’s always a bonus to see something special if you are in the area at the right time.
Hot Air Balloon Festival
The Hot Air Balloon Festival in Chateau-d’Oex [Photo by By Ivan Babovic – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link]
Montreux Jazz Festival
Montreux Jazz Festival Switzerland [Photo by By Jeroen Komen from Utrecht, Netherlands – Jam Sessions after the concerts of the 5th of July, Montreux Jazz Festival, Switzerland, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link]
Open Wine Cellar (aka Caves Ouvertes)
Sample Swiss wine during the Open Cellar Festival in Switzerland [Photo via DepositPhotos]
You can get a pass and visit any of the wineries taking part, of which I counted about 150+ on the website. And in case you are thinking “Swiss Wine? Is it any good” – don’t worry, I was too when I first arrived. Now, I drink it at least 50% of the time. It’s top-notch!
Don’t Skip French Speaking Switzerland
So, there you have it – more than enough reasons to spend some of your time in Switzerland in the French part. There are fewer tourists, but still, some stunning things to see.
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- Why You Need to Visit French Speaking Switzerland - April 10, 2019