Lausanne

Lausanne, Switzerland is a beautiful city located on the shores of Lake Geneva, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. Here are some things to do in Lausanne:

1. Take a stroll along the lake - Lake Geneva is one of the most picturesque spots in Lausanne, and there are several scenic walking paths along the lake. You can enjoy the beautiful views of the lake, mountains, and the city.

2. Explore the old town - Lausanne's old town is a charming area with narrow streets, historic buildings, and colorful cafes. You can wander through the streets, visit the Cathedral of Notre Dame, and enjoy the views from the old town's terrace.

3. Go wine tasting - Lausanne is surrounded by vineyards, and there are several wineries in the region that offer wine tastings. Specifically, you can find breathtaking views in the Lavaux region, recognized as a UNESCO Heritage in 2007. I highly recommend taking the train from Lausanne train station to Epesses, Rivaz, or St. Saphorin and walking back towards Lausanne. The scenic pathway in the middle of the vineyards offers breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. St. Saphorin village is also a must-visit, with its charming architecture and picturesque streets.

4. Take a scenic train ride - The Swiss railway system is famous for its scenic train rides, and there are several routes that pass through Lausanne. You can take a train ride to nearby towns like Montreux or explore the beautiful mountain scenery.

Museums

1. Visit the Olympic Museum - Lausanne is the home of the International Olympic Committee. This museum has a collection of Olympic memorabilia, including medals and torches, and offers interactive exhibits and displays.

2. Visit the Collection de l'Art Brut - The Collection de l'Art Brut is a unique museum dedicated to outsider art. The museum has a collection of art created by people who are not formally trained artists, including the mentally ill and self-taught artists.

3.  Hermitage Foundation: Since 1984, this private foundation has hosted temporary exhibitions which change around once a year and regularly show a selection of works from its own collections. I went to the Museum in the first half of 2023 and there was an exposition about the Belgian artist Léon Spiliaert, there is more info below if you are interested.

4. Chaplin's World Museum: Chaplin lived in Switzerland during 20 years, and this museum, dedicated to his life, is located in his former residence. 

Hermitage Foundation: Léon Spiliaert

Leon Spilliaert was born in Ostend, Belgium in 1881. He grew up in a middle-class family and was educated at home due to poor health. Spilliaert started to paint at a young age and developed a unique style that was heavily influenced by Symbolism and Expressionism. He is best known for his use of light and shade and his depictions of the sea, as well as his haunting self-portraits. Despite suffering from depression and anxiety throughout his life, Spilliaert continued to paint until his death in 1946, leaving behind a legacy as one of Belgium's most important artists.

Chaplin's World Museum

The Chaplin's World museum is located in Corsier-sur-Vevey, a town that is just a 20-minute drive or 1-hour train ride from Lausanne. It is situated in the former residence of Charlie Chaplin, where he lived from 1953 until his death in 1977. The museum is divided into three main parts: the studio, the park, and the mansion.

Upon entering the museum, visitors are treated to a short video about Chaplin's life and scenes from his many films. Born in London in 1889, Chaplin began his career on the stage and eventually signed with Keystone Studios in Hollywood in 1913, where he created some of his most iconic characters, including "The Tramp." His films were wildly popular, and he became one of the biggest stars of the silent film era. However, in the 1940s, Chaplin's political views came under scrutiny, and he was accused of being a communist sympathizer. This led to an investigation by the FBI and his forced departure from the United States in 1952. He eventually settled in Switzerland and lived in the mansion that now houses the Chaplin's World museum until his death in 1977.

After watching the film, visitors are led to the studio, which has different rooms honouring the different films that Chaplin wrote, directed, composed its music, and acted on. Each room has very realistic wax statues and screens showcasing Chaplin's films. The attention to detail in each room is impressive. Chaplin was known for his wit and creativity. 

Visitors to the museum can also explore Chaplin's former residence, where they can see various rooms containing personal items such as notes and photographs that offer insight into his private life with his family in Switzerland. The exhibits provide information on how he integrated into Swiss culture and the activities he enjoyed. One interesting exhibit also delves into the last film he was working on with one of his daughters, which he never finished. Additionally, visitors can stroll through the park, which Chaplin loved, and enjoy the impressive views of the Alps from his former home.

• The Cailler chocolate factory in Broc (approx. 45 min by car / 1h20 by train away from Lausanne) is a must-visit destination for chocolate lovers. The factory was founded in 1819 by François-Louis Cailler and is considered one of the oldest chocolate brands in Switzerland. Today, the Cailler chocolate brand is owned by Nestlé.  The tour includes a visit to the interactive chocolate museum, where you can learn about the history of chocolate and the Cailler brand. You'll also get to see the production line and watch the chocolatiers in action as they create the chocolate treats. The tour ends with a chocolate tasting, where you can sample a variety of Cailler chocolates and indulge in their delicious flavors

Restaurant recommendations:

1. Le Pointu - My all-time favourite, for brunch, coffee, casual lunch, or a drink. This trendy bistro offers a menu of modern Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The laid-back atmosphere and outdoor seating make it a great spot for a casual meal with friends.

2. Brasserie de Montbenon - Located in a beautiful historic building, this restaurant offers classic brasserie fare with a modern twist. The menu features fresh seafood, grilled meats, and seasonal vegetables.

3. Nomades - This restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a menu inspired by the flavors and ingredients of North Africa and the Middle East. The cozy atmosphere and colorful decor make for a memorable meal.

4. La Table d'Edgard 🇫🇷 - This Michelin-starred restaurant offers contemporary French cuisine with an emphasis on local and seasonal ingredients. The elegant dining room and attentive service make for a special occasion dining experience.

5. Café Romand 🇨🇭- This traditional Swiss restaurant has been serving up classic dishes like cheese fondue and rösti since 1908. The cozy interior and friendly service make it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.