Flying Over Lake Geneva

The shore of Lake Geneva around Montreux is one of the most scenic stretches in Switzerland, and seeing it from the air is a different experience from walking along the promenade. From above, the geography becomes clear: the lake lies in a long crescent between the Alps of Switzerland and the French Alps on the opposite shore, the vineyards of Lavaux step down to the water in narrow terraces, and the town of Montreux clings to a steep slope with villas and hotels above the shore. Chillon Castle appears as a small fortress on a rocky island beside the road, and the Rhône delta marks the eastern end of the lake. On a clear day you can see the Dents du Midi, a jagged mountain range at the head of the Rhône valley, and the Savoy mountains across the water.

There are two main ways to fly in the area, and both are offered by local operators. Light aircraft flights take off from small airfields in the region, with a pilot and a few passengers, and follow a route that can be arranged to include the Montreux Riviera, the Lavaux vineyards and, depending on the weather, the mountains. Flights of this type give a smooth, steady view and are suitable for people who want to take photographs, since you can sit comfortably and look out of a window. Operators provide a safety briefing and headsets so passengers can hear the pilot's commentary.

The second option is tandem paragliding, in which a qualified pilot and a passenger share a wing and launch from a hillside. The mountains above Montreux, reached by the rack railway to Rochers-de-Naye or other vantage points, provide launch sites, and flights glide down over the lake and the town to a landing area near the shore. Paragliding is quieter and slower than flying in an aircraft, and it gives a stronger sense of being in the air. It requires no experience, but passengers must follow instructions closely, and weight limits and health conditions apply.

Both kinds of flight depend on the weather. Wind, cloud and visibility can cause cancellations or delays, and operators decide at short notice, so it is best to book with flexibility, preferably early in your stay so there is room to reschedule. Prices, durations and available languages vary between operators, and details should be checked directly with the company, along with its safety record and insurance. Choose a registered, licensed operator and read the terms carefully.

A flight suits couples, groups of friends and anyone who wants a special way to see the region. It is not suitable for people with certain health problems or a fear of heights, and young children may not be allowed. Dress in layers, since it can be cool in the air even on a warm day, and bring sunglasses. If you prefer to stay on the ground, the lake promenade, the castle and the vineyards offer many of the same views at a slower pace.