Victoria Glion Montreux – Garden, Travel, Photo Journal

For centuries the breathtaking panoramic view from the hills of Montreux has inspired writers, poets and artists. In 1761 Jean Jacques Rousseau wrote his novel “Julie, ou la nouvelle Héloïse” story of two lovers set in the idyllic region around Montreux. Then came Lord Byron in 1816 captivated by the beautiful surroundings wrote his famous “Prisoner of Chillon”. Since then many hotels were built to cater the growing demand of visitors eager to discover the new booming resort of the Riviera. Unfortunately many of these historic hotels have long gone leaving traces of their existence found only on old drawings. If many of these historic hotels are now but remnants of the past, one of such is still standing majestically in Glion overlooking Montreux and Lake Geneva. It began as a mountain lodge called Hotel du Midi built in 1869. The hotel then passes onto the hands of several owners including that of Madeleine Müller daughter of the Langenthal porcelain manufacturer who bought it in 1873 and renamed it “Victoria” in honour of the British Queen. The Victoria hotel is now run by Toni and the attentive Barbara Mittermair who continue to render the beauty of this splendid hotel. The steep road up to Glion where the hotel is located is simply breathtaking but taking the funicular from Territet station is certainly worthwhile. The Territet Glion funicular was open in 1883 – one of the oldest funicular railway after the 1879 Giessbachbahn funicular in lake Brienz. Today it is operated by the Golden Pass recognizable through its gold and white colour paint of the cars. Here it is the funicular to Glion in Territet station, just behind the 19th century St John church and next to the new train is the display of the historic red coloured cars which ceased to be used since 1975.

Territet funicular station view of Montreux Chillon Villeneuve from Glion funicular station — Territet funicular station and view of Montreux Chillon Villeneuve from Glion funicular station

Finally arrived at Victoria Glion Hotel … just like stepping back in time. I can just imagine Jean Jacques Rousseau or even Lord Byron walking along the corridors of this place.

A little corner decorated with a touch of Art Nouveau style to relax while taking a nice afternoon tea …

Then off for a walk in the garden overlooking Lake Geneva and the snow capped Alps …

I continue my exploration around the garden while enjoying the magnificent view of the surrounding area

The flower garden of Victoria Glion hotel

The sun is setting and dinner will soon be served at their lovely dining room. Here it is my fabulous dinner so well orchestrated with fresh lobster salad and ends with a delicious soufflé chaud au Grand Marnier …