Les Pléiades and the AstroPléiades trail
Want a trip that combines mountain trains, stars, and flower-filled meadows? At Les Pléiades, above Blonay, your children take the train from Vevey, walk along a path dedicated to the solar system, and discover a 360-degree panorama of Lake Geneva and the Alps.
A Starry Balcony Above the Riviera
The Pléiades is a gentle, family-friendly summit that rises to about 1360 meters, above Blonay and Vevey. You can take the train up effortlessly to discover a panorama that embraces Lake Geneva on one side and Lake Neuchâtel on the other, with the Bernese and Valais Alps in the background. The place gets its name from a cluster of stars, making it the perfect spot for a trail dedicated to astronomy. Between sky and lake, it's a peaceful destination, ideal for breathing and marveling with family.
What Your Children Will Discover
The AstroPléiades trail takes your children to meet the solar system, represented to scale along the path: they walk from the Sun to the planets, measuring the distances with their feet. Installations explain the seasons, the position of the Sun, and the immense distances of the universe. In spring, between mid-May and mid-June, the meadows are covered with wild daffodils, these little white flowers nicknamed May snow. A true lesson in science and nature in the open air.
What to Do There and the Atmosphere on Site
The atmosphere is calm and bright, far from the crowds. You can stroll along the paths, observe the flowers, and look for the planets along the trail. A tip appreciated by families: ascend via the Planet Trail and descend via the Daffodil Trail to vary the landscapes. An altitude restaurant allows for a break at the summit. The AstroPléiades site is open until the end of October 2026; beyond that, check the official site for access conditions.
Before You Go
- Recommended age: from 5 years old, up to about 14 years old
- Duration: half a day
- Reservation and price: train tickets via the official site; check the rates at https://www.lespleiades.ch
- Stroller accessibility: mountain paths, all-terrain stroller recommended depending on the route
- Transport: train departing from Vevey, via Blonay, to the summit of the Pléiades
- To bring: good shoes, jacket, water, picnic, and hat
- Ideal season: from mid-May to mid-June for the daffodils, and until autumn for the astronomical trail
Parent Tips
- Ascend via the Planet Trail and descend via the Daffodil Trail to change the scenery
- In spring, aim for mid-May to mid-June to admire the daffodil meadows
- Bring a jacket: even on sunny days, the summit remains cooler than down below
- Bring water and a snack, as there are many photo stops
- Download the trail guide from the AstroPléiades site before you go
Useful Information
- Address: summit of the Pléiades, above Blonay (municipality of Blonay - Saint-Légier, Vaud)
- Official site: https://www.lespleiades.ch and https://astropleiades.ch
- Hours: AstroPléiades site open until the end of October 2026; check train schedules on the official site
- Access: train departing from Vevey station (CFF), via Blonay, to the Pléiades
Why We Recommend It
Because it's a complete outing: the joy of the little train, a playful trail that makes astronomy enjoyable, flower meadows in spring, and a spectacular 360-degree panorama. All in a peaceful and accessible setting, ideal for a half-day with family above the Riviera.
In Two Words
A family summit above Blonay, accessible by train from Vevey, with a trail on the solar system, daffodil meadows in spring, and breathtaking views.
Frequently asked questions
How do you get to the Pléiades?
What is the AstroPléiades trail?
When can we see the daffodils?
Is the trail open all year round?
How much does the train ticket cost?
Is there anything to eat at the summit?
Is the course suitable for young children?
Michael @ Kidora
Kid Adventure Planner
Location
Blonay - Saint-Légier
Vaud
Sommet des Pléiades, 1807 Blonay
Contact
WebsiteNearby
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