A Trip on the lake

Catching the paddle steamer was an annual event for Hind and I, sometimes more than once a year. We would catch it at Villeneuve and do a four hour round trip taking in the sites around the lake whilst relaxing in the sunshine. We would often jump off at St.Gingolf on the French side of the lake and have lunch at one of the terrace restaurants on the quayside and then resume the rest of our journey. The route takes in Vevey, the location of the new Chalie Chaplin museum. Montreux, where the statue of Freddie Murcury gazes out across the lake. Chateau Chillon, a very important historical land mark dating back to Roman times with a very varied history right up to today. I must add that this is only one tiny portion of the lake, there are many excursions and round-trips the whole length of the lake.

The boats date from around 1906 and were once driven by steam; later they were converted to diesel but some of the huge crankshafts turning the paddles are still viewable and in pristine condition. These national treasures are kept in immaculate condition, probably at huge expense but provide a memorable experience for tourist and locals alike. In fact the boat called "La Suisse" was completely overhauled very recently. On some of the vessels there is on board dining with a full compliment of table cloths, cutlery, wine glasses not to mention the full table service and good food.

Of course if boats make you nervous then there are kilometres of walks around the lake often with sumptuous flower beds which thrive in the temperate climate.

If you missed lunch, don't dispair, there is always the opportunity to have dinner in Villeneuve on a lakeside jetty whilst watching para-gliders descend into the sunset. The lake trip is a truly wonderful and unforgettable experience.