6 Best Sights in Vaud, Switzerland

The Nestlé Foundation, a dynamic force in the region, sponsors this unconventional museum devoted to the celebration and study of food. In a stainless-steel kitchen, chefs demonstrate their skills, and displays on food preparation cover everything from the campfire to futuristic equipment. Other sections focus on merchants, supermarkets, food presentation, and marketing. You can also stroll through herb and vegetable gardens. The exhibits have material in English, and some are interactive.

From Vevey and Montreux, a number of railways climb into the heights, which in late spring are carpeted with an extravagance of wild narcissus blooms. If you like model railroads, you will especially enjoy a trip on the Blonay–Chamby Railroad, whose real steam-driven trains alternate with electric trains. You can depart from either end (parking is more plentiful in Blonay); trains make a stop at a small museum of railroad history in between. The trip takes about 20 minutes each way, not including a browse in the museum.

This grand 16th-century manor house, briefly home to Charlotte de Lengefeld, wife of Friedrich von Schiller, retains some original furnishings, as well as collections of arms, art, keys, and winemaking paraphernalia.

The Musée Suisse de l'Appareil Photographique displays an impressive collection of cameras, photographic equipment, and mounted work.

Just east of town, the Musée Suisse du Jeu fills a 13th-century castle. Games of strategy and chance, ranging from dice to video games, are represented in displays spanning centuries. Tours are available in English. Its excellent gift shop is stocked with puzzles and board games. The courtyard eatery, in a former gardener's cottage, serves snacks and light meals.

Obrist makes its own wines and distributes wine for several international wineries. Try Château de Chardonne or Grand Cru Chardonne, either perfect for drinking on a sunny afternoon.