7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Lausanne

As a digital nomad living in Lausanne, you have the unique opportunity to blend work and travel seamlessly. Nestled on the shores of Lake Geneva, Lausanne serves as an ideal base for exploring the beauty and culture of Switzerland and its neighboring countries. Whether you're looking for popular tourist spots or hidden gems, the region offers a plethora of weekend getaways that cater to every taste. From the majestic Alps to tranquil lakeside towns, here are seven destinations that promise to rejuvenate your spirit and inspire your work.

Montreux

Just a short train ride away from Lausanne, Montreux is a picturesque town known for its jazz festival and stunning lakeside promenade lined with flowers and sculptures. Stroll along the shores of Lake Geneva, visit the Chillon Castle, or take a cogwheel train up to Rochers-de-Naye for breathtaking views. Montreux's blend of culture and nature makes it a perfect weekend retreat for those looking to unwind and find inspiration.

How to Get There: Montreux is easily accessible by train from Lausanne, with a journey time of approximately 20-30 minutes.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Montreux Jazz Café, an homage to the famous Montreux Jazz Festival, and enjoy live music in a vibrant atmosphere.

Where to Stay: Consider staying at the Fairmont Le Montreux Palace for a luxurious experience with stunning views of the lake and the Alps.

Where to Eat: For a unique dining experience, try Le Palais Oriental, known for its exquisite Middle Eastern cuisine and ornate decor reminiscent of a sultan's palace.

Gruyères

Gruyères, the home of the famous Swiss cheese, is a medieval town that offers a charming escape into history and gastronomy. Visit the Gruyères Castle, explore the HR Giger Museum, and indulge in a cheese-tasting experience at La Maison du Gruyère. The town's cobblestone streets and picturesque buildings provide a storybook setting for a relaxing weekend.

How to Get There: Gruyères is about an hour and a half away from Lausanne by train, with a transfer at Palézieux or Bulle.

Travel Tip: Make sure to try the local meringue with double cream, a decadent dessert that's a regional specialty.

Where to Stay: La Fleur de Lys is a cozy inn with a traditional Swiss ambiance, located right in the heart of Gruyères.

Where to Eat: Visit Le Chalet de Gruyères for a classic Swiss dining experience, where you can savor fondue and raclette in a rustic setting.

Annecy, France

Cross the border into France and discover Annecy, a fairy-tale town often referred to as the "Venice of the Alps." With its winding canals, colorful old town, and stunning lake, Annecy is a feast for the senses. Enjoy a boat ride on Lake Annecy, explore the local markets, or hike in the surrounding mountains for an unforgettable weekend.

How to Get There: Annecy is about a two-hour drive from Lausanne, or you can take a train with a transfer in Geneva, which takes around 2.5 hours.

Travel Tip: Rent a bike and cycle around the lake for a scenic and invigorating way to take in the beauty of the area.

Where to Stay: L'Impérial Palace offers luxury accommodations with stunning views of Lake Annecy and the surrounding gardens.

Where to Eat: Café Brunet, located in a historic building in the old town, serves delicious Savoyard dishes in a cozy atmosphere.

Lavaux Vineyard Terraces

The Lavaux Vineyard Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offer a unique wine-tasting experience with panoramic views of Lake Geneva and the Alps. Explore the picturesque vineyards, visit local wineries, and enjoy a leisurely hike along the terraces. The combination of cultural heritage and natural beauty makes Lavaux a must-visit for wine enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

How to Get There: The Lavaux region is easily accessible by train from Lausanne, with a journey time of about 10-20 minutes to the various small towns within the vineyards.

Travel Tip: Plan your visit during the open cellars event, when local winemakers open their doors to the public for tastings and tours.

Where to Stay: Auberge de la Gare is a charming hotel with a terrace offering stunning views of the vineyards and lake.

Where to Eat: The Auberge du Raisin in the heart of Cully is a historic inn with a renowned restaurant serving exquisite local cuisine and wines.

Creux du Van

For an off-the-beaten-path adventure, head to Creux du Van, a natural rock arena of immense proportions, often referred to as Switzerland's Grand Canyon. This geological wonder is surrounded by a nature reserve where ibexes roam freely. Hiking to the summit rewards you with spectacular views and a sense of tranquility that's hard to find elsewhere.

How to Get There: The journey to Creux du Van from Lausanne involves a combination of train and bus, taking approximately 2 hours.

Travel Tip: Visit during sunrise or sunset for a truly magical experience as the light plays off the rock formations and surrounding landscape.

Where to Stay: Hotel de l'Aigle in Couvet offers comfortable accommodations and is a good base for exploring the area.

Where to Eat: Enjoy a hearty meal at Restaurant de la Truite in Champ-du-Moulin, nestled in a picturesque valley close to the Creux du Van.

Valle Verzasca, Ticino

Venture into the Italian-speaking part of Switzerland and discover the Valle Verzasca, a stunning valley known for its clear turquoise waters and rustic charm. Take a dip in the refreshing Verzasca River, explore the quaint stone villages, and walk across the iconic Ponte dei Salti, a medieval double-arched bridge. This hidden gem offers a peaceful escape and a taste of Swiss-Italian culture.

How to Get There: Reaching Valle Verzasca from Lausanne requires a train to Locarno and then a bus to the valley, with a total travel time of around 4 hours.

Travel Tip: Be sure to bring a waterproof camera to capture the stunning underwater scenes if you decide to go for a swim in the Verzasca River.

Where to Stay: For a unique experience, stay at Casa delle Befane in Dunzio, a charming guesthouse with traditional architecture.

Where to Eat: Grotto al Ritrovo in Sonogno offers a cozy atmosphere and serves delicious local specialties, including homemade pasta and polenta dishes.

Saillon, Valais

Saillon, located in the canton of Valais, is a lesser-known medieval village that boasts thermal baths, vineyards, and a labyrinth of historical significance. The village's thermal center, Les Bains de Saillon, provides the perfect setting for relaxation after exploring the local heritage sites. Saillon's tranquil ambiance and cultural richness make it an ideal spot for digital nomads seeking solace and rejuvenation.

How to Get There: The trip to Saillon from Lausanne involves a train to Martigny followed by a bus, with a total journey time of around 2 hours.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the Farinet Vineyard, the world's smallest registered vineyard, which is maintained by various celebrities for charity.

Where to Stay: The Hotel des Bains de Saillon offers modern accommodations with direct access to the thermal baths.

Where to Eat: Relais de la Sarvaz is known for its traditional Valais cuisine and offers a warm, welcoming dining experience.

Each of these destinations offers a unique experience that can enrich the life of a digital nomad living in Lausanne. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, these weekend getaways provide the perfect balance to a life of work and exploration.