SWITZERLAND

I originally visited Montreux which lies on the shores of Lake Geneva (or 'Lac le Man' as the French call it) with my husband Colin to seek out the (then) recently erected statue of the late Freddie Mercury of 'Queen'. (Colin had secretly arranged for us to have a private visit to the 'Mountain Studios' where several of the band's tracks had been made - but that is another story!)

There is a beautiful and extensive floral walk along the lakeside. During the warmer months, the breath-taking views of the surrounding mountains coupled with the heady fragrance of the flowering plants make this a very special place.

The dizzy heights at the summit of the Rocher de Ney can be reached on foot (with the help of a funicular and cog railway!) and gives magnificent aerial views of the towns and villages around this end of the lake.

just along from Montreux at the foot of the Arvel and Grammont Mountains lies the small town of Villeneuve. Here, at the eastern end of the lake and set in the Rhone Delta, you will find the Grangettes Natural Reserve. There are wooded trails and a lakeside bird screen where you can watch Great Crested Grebes and Kingfishers to your hearts content.