We’re all familiar with the Christmas markets of Belgium and Germany, but we often forget that another neighbouring country does not do so badly when it comes to putting out tinsel and eating melted cheese throughout the month of December. Known the world over for its Gruyère and Emmental cheeses, but also for its chocolate, Switzerland is a de facto Christmas nation. When you look at the map of Europe, you don’t need to point your finger all the way to Lapland, Santa’s supposed home, to imagine yourself approaching the star. In Montreux, Santa Claus comes to visit visitors by literally arriving on his sleigh.
The Montreux Christmas Market, considered one of Europe’s most emblematic markets
The Montreux Christmas Market is the perfect equation for an end-of-year getaway. First, the view! Nestled on the shores of one of Europe’s most beautiful lakes, Montreux surprises with its striking contrast between lake and mountains. Then there’s the bevy of chalets on hand to offer you the very best, from local crafts to original finds. And let’s not forget that the Swiss are the progenitors of a whole host of finger-licking culinary specialities, so you’ll find just the right amount of melted cheese or chocolate for a big appetite or a quick stopover.
Last but not least, this is undoubtedly the “icing on the cake”. Santa Claus, in the flesh and in his sleigh, flies over the site in an enchanting atmosphere that is truly unique in the world. Just imagine the scene – you have to see it to believe it! True to his unique generosity, he honors us with daily visits at 5, 6 and 7 p.m. on weekdays, and even reserves the right to come as early as 4 p.m. on weekends. If even the most secretive inhabitant of the planet shows up here, that just goes to show how attractive this place is…
Montreux, the Swiss pearl on Lake Geneva
Like Yvoire on the French side, Montreux is a veritable nugget. Nestled at the other end of Lake Geneva, the town boasts a setting that is unique in the world. The sunsets and views from Montreux’s quayside are simply indescribable. All the more so when you consider that Freddie Mercury keeps watch over the site, with this statue in tribute to the star who settled here for the serenity of the surroundings…
When it comes to music, Montreux knows a thing or two. Host to one of the world’s most prestigious music festivals, it has seen the likes of Queen, Pink Floyd and Led Zeppelin, and more recently Muse, Radiohead, Kendrick Lamar, Adele, Lady Gaga and Tyler The Creator. If you’d like a selfie with Freddie Mercury and a photo of Santa Claus flying over the largest Alpine lake, while enjoying a local speciality, you know what you have to do…