Funicular Vevey – Mont-Pèlerin: the ascent through the vineyards of Lavaux

A spectacular ascent above Lake Geneva

Inaugurated in 1900 and fully renovated in 2014, the Vevey – Chardonne – Mont-Pèlerin funicular climbs the slopes overlooking Vevey in about twelve minutes. Its two counterweight cabins traverse the terraced vineyards of Lavaux, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the village of Chardonne. The departure is right next to the CFF Vevey-Funiculaire stop, just a few minutes' walk from the train station. At the top, at an altitude of 1080 m, a 360° panorama opens up over Lake Geneva, the Alps, and the Jura. A simple and fun way to gain altitude with the family, in summer and winter.

What your children will discover

Your children will experience the sensation of climbing along a steep slope, with the landscape receding and the lake sprawling below. They will cross the terraced vineyards of Lavaux and discover the village of Chardonne from the cabins. Upon reaching the summit, they will enjoy an unobstructed view and a starting point for lovely walks in nature.

What to do there and the atmosphere on site

The journey lasts about 11 to 13 minutes and climbs approximately 400 m in elevation. The funicular operates year-round, 365 days a year, approximately every 20 minutes: no need to book, you go up at your own pace. At the top, you can enjoy the panorama, take a walk through the vineyards or towards the Plein Ciel viewpoint (about a 45-minute walk), and you can dine at the Mirador Resort & Spa. The atmosphere is peaceful and very natural.

Before you go

• Recommended age: all ages (public transport, ideal for families for the viewpoint)
• Duration: 11 to 13 minutes of ascent (Vevey Funi to Mont-Pèlerin)
• Price: rates obtained from third-party sources; check the official 2026 rates on mob.ch or CFF. The validity of TL/Mobilis and general subscriptions is to be confirmed.
• Reservation: none (public transport at your own pace)
• Accessibility: all stations have been adapted since 2014, easy boarding for wheelchairs and strollers
• Transport: departure right next to the CFF Vevey-Funiculaire stop, about 5 min walk from the CFF train station in Vevey
• Ideal season: all year round (365 days/year)

Parents' tips

• Sit the children on the valley side to fully enjoy the view of the lake during the ascent.
• Wear good shoes: the summit is an excellent starting point for family walks.
• Check the current rates and schedules on mob.ch or CFF before you leave.
• Take advantage of the regular frequency (~20 min) to adjust your schedule without stress.
• Consider bringing a windbreaker: it can be cooler at the summit at 1080 m.

Useful information

• Address: lower station Vevey Funi, next to the CFF Vevey-Funiculaire stop (~5 min walk from the CFF train station in Vevey)
• Official site: https://www.mob.ch
• Schedule: operates year-round, approximately every 20 minutes; wide time range (first departure early in the morning, last services late in the evening). Check the official 2026 schedule on CFF/MOB.
• Access: CFF Vevey-Funiculaire stop at departure; from the CFF train station in Vevey, ~5 min walk

Why we recommend it

It’s a simple, short, and accessible outing that offers maximum effect: in just a few minutes, you go from the lakeshore to a viewpoint at 1080 m, crossing the famous vineyards of Lavaux. Accessible by stroller, open year-round, and connected to beautiful walks, the funicular is perfect for families, even with young children.

In two words

A historic funicular that climbs from Vevey to the vineyards of Lavaux up to Mont-Pèlerin (1080 m), offering a 360° panorama over Lake Geneva, the Alps, and the Jura, accessible year-round.