In addition to attending flower festivals, one of the activities not to be missed is hiking the Narcissus Trail. Take the funicular from the town of Les Avants near Montreux up the mountain, follow the signs marked with narcissus symbols into the half-mountain path, where countless flowers compose an immaculate field of narcissus, covering the slope like fallen snow. Set against the backdrop of the azure lake surface and distant snowy mountains, it resembles an ethereal dreamland, captivating and enchanting. Nearby areas like Les Pléiades, Mont-Pèlerin, Glion, and Orgevaux also offer stunning flower viewing routes.
Blooming almost simultaneously with the narcissus are the elegant and noble iris flowers. May to June is a good time to visit Les Jardins du Château de Vullierens in Morges. Situated in the countryside, this castle offers unobstructed views of Lake Geneva and Mont Blanc on clear days. The estate dates back to the 17th century when the lord married a noblewoman from France, and to please his bride, transformed the original fortress into the exquisite castle it is today.
The Vullierens Castle Gardens now boast over 400 varieties of iris, mostly bearded iris. These irises have large and elegant petals with rich ruffles along the edges, resembling the skirts of flamenco dancers. The flowers come in a variety of colors and have a velvety texture, swaying in the wind like graceful ladies dancing in silk skirts, exuding elegance and nobility. The garden is also adorned with sculptures of artistic taste, horse riding trails under the shade of trees, and meticulously trimmed rose walls, offering breathtaking beauty at every turn of the gaze.
