| Caux
High above Montreux, at 1,000-1,200 m above sea, a small village around a beautiful ancient palace, with a breathtaking view over the Lake of Geneva and the mountains. During the 19th century, Glion was not situated high enough to satisfy the mountain lovers, so at the turn of the century were built in Caux, at 1,050m above sea level, the two biggest hotels of Montreux Heights. By their situation and comfort, they attracted a wealthy and cosmopolitan clientele: Sissi, Empress of Austria, sojourned in the Grand Hotel during her last visit in Switzerland, which ended tragically in Geneva with the stroke of a screwdriver by a chap who sought fame by any means. Wars and the economic crisis ruined this development, but this disaffection facilitated the growth of a "spiritual" tourism, as the "Moral Re-Armament" (nowadays known as the "Initiatives of Change" NGO) acquired in 1946 the Caux Palace to turn it into a meeting point for thousands of delegates from around the world, in a spirit of Christian tolerance, for conferences, informal meetings, and even unofficial peace negotiations. Today, the Palace is occupied by a hotel management school and a historic exhibition, and its fairy-tale-castle silhouette still proudly overlooks the Swiss Riviera. The most famous host of Caux was Claude Nobs, founder of the world famous Montreux Jazz Festival. His "chalet" has hosted Miles Davis, Freddie Mercury and many other music stars, and every July it becomes a very sought-after and exclusive "backstage VIP residence". Caux is located on the cogwheel railway line linking Montreux to Rochers-de-Naye, and the road climbs up to Hauts-de-Caux (Caux Heights), dotted with "chalets". On clear days, the village grants spectacular views on the lake and the mountains and as one can get there by car it is an ideal place for hikes. |
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