Unique panoramic view of Lake Geneva, the Lavaux vineyards and the Alps. A romantic walk through the medieval village of Epesses is another highlight.

by Marc Gottwald

A truly magical place

Imagine being asked, “What if you could just beam yourself to a place? Where would that be?”

Please give yourself a minute to reflect.

I have been aware for a few years that it does not always have to be abroad.

“In the area of Les Lavaux”, I answered this question.

“Why there?” You will now ask me the counter question.

Because it’s a very special region.

The vines stretch for kilometers on the slopes high above Lake Geneva. The view will really make you swoon.

Yes, the view is unique. Not only does the heart of all wine drinkers start to beat faster here. No! Nature and culture lovers will also be delighted.

Although Lavaux itself is well known, there are so many pretty medieval villages that are overshadowed by the overall marketing.

My favorite is Epesses, which we don’t want to withhold from you.

Super wine from the medieval village

This medieval village has everything: Brilliant panoramic views of Lake Geneva and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Les Lavaux, a traditional wine culture and charming streets.

In this place you are right in the middle. Vines as far as the eye can see. They are very noble varieties.

“The harvest will be coming soon,” says the vintner happily. “And then after work we celebrate and drink,” he adds. “The Gutedel grape variety in particular is planted here. We then use it to produce the Chasselas wine,” he says.

In the UNESCO World Heritage Site

Covered by vines, the charming medieval village of Epesses will capture your heart in no time. Love at first sight you will say. Or love at first sip?

No matter which variant you choose, Epesses has charm and culture.

In dozens of wine cellars you can taste your way through and buy the finest wines for your wine cellar.

Aren’t you a wine drinker? No problem!

Epesses has much more to offer. Be it the quiet, narrow streets, the beautiful view of Lake Geneva or the view of the picturesque vineyard terraces of Lavaux, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. No one misses out and that’s why Epesses is one of the most beautiful villages in Switzerland.

The most important things in brief

A unique view of the Alps, Lake Geneva and the Lavaux vineyards await you. We recommend arriving by train (few parking spaces and wine consumption).

Arrival: In just 11 minutes you can take the train from Lausanne to Epesses (runs every hour; see sbb.ch). Parking is limited, so driving is not recommended.

Eat: There are various restaurants and wine cellars in Epesses. The Auberge du Vigneron gets a good rating on tripadvisor.