|
OUR first glimpse of the Swiss Riviera – playground for the rich and famous – was from the window of the panoramic train as it snaked its way through a series of tunnels. Snug wooden chalets made way for French style farmhouses, before the train began its descent past terraced vineyards towards the French speaking townships of Montreux and Vevey, also known as the “Pearl of the Riviera”. Emerging from a long stretch of darkness, Lake Geneva spread before us in all its glory as if curtains had been flung back to reveal a dreamy stage set. Azure coloured water stretched seemingly forever before coming to a halt at the base of the imposing snow capped French Alps. Murmurs of “Mon Dieu!” could be heard throughout the carriage as passengers literally downed playing cards, cups of coffee and anything else they happened to be holding and gasped in disbelief. I’d come to see for myself why the Swiss Riviera has long been a stamping ground, not just for the well heeled but writers, including Lord Byron, artists and composers alike.
|
