The Chauderon Gorge is a natural site in Montreux, just above the old town in the Les Planches district. A shaded trail with stairs and footbridges follows the Baye de Montreux up to Glion, past waterfalls and moss-covered rock walls.
Gorges
Chauderon Gorge
Main highlights
- Waymarked trail along the Baye de Montreux, past waterfalls, footbridges and bridges
- Giant’s Kettles and the “Chaudron” pool, carved into the rock by water erosion
- Cool and shaded even in summer, just a few minutes’ walk from Montreux station
Overview
The Chauderon Gorge lies within the municipality of Montreux, in the canton of Vaud. Its name is thought to come from the word “chaudron” (cauldron), a reference to the natural potholes the water has carved into the rock.
The Baye de Montreux, a mountain stream rising in the Vaud Prealps, has shaped this landscape over time. Its clear, turquoise-tinted waters contrast with the dark rock walls covered in mosses and ferns. The dense, damp vegetation is home to several rare fern species and to wildlife adapted to this shady environment.
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Things to see and do
Hiking is the main activity here. The waymarked trail follows the river up to Glion, crossing footbridges and climbing stairs. Of moderate difficulty, it takes about 2.5 hours of walking time. Several sections are fitted with handrails, and small bridges let you cross the stream at various points.
Along the way, a suspension bridge offers a dramatic view down into the gorge. Numerous waterfalls punctuate the climb. The Giant’s Kettles are circular hollows formed by erosion. The “Chaudron”, the high point of the gorge, is a natural pool where the water churns and bubbles.
You can make a loop by combining the gorge trail with a return route along the heights, which offers views over the region and Lake Geneva. Other waymarked trails extend the walk into the Vaud Prealps, towards Les Avants or Les Pléiades.
Practical information
Getting there : a few minutes’ walk from Montreux station, following the signs from Avenue des Alpes. Bus 201 to the “Montreux-Collège” stop.
Parking : at the Montreux-Est school or the Les Planches car park.
Visit duration : about 3 hours for the round trip, including stops.
Equipment : shoes with non-slip soles, warm clothing, water and snacks.
Visitor tips
The site is open all year round. Spring, with the snowmelt, and autumn, for its colours, are especially good times to visit. Avoid going during heavy rain or thunderstorms, due to the risk of flash floods.
Set off early on summer weekends to avoid the crowds. The trail is slippery in places, so hold children by the hand. This place is part of the selection Vevey and Montreux : gems of the Vaud Riviera.
Nearby attractions
- Chillon Castle is a well-preserved medieval fortress set on the shores of Lake Geneva.
- The Rochers de Naye, at 2,042 m, offer views over Lake Geneva and the Alps and can be reached by cogwheel train.
- The Montreux Museum, housed in a 17th-century winegrower’s house, traces the town’s history.
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