This summer, the new buzzword is coolcation – a blend of “cool” and “vacation” that’s as refreshing as a dip in Lake Geneva. While half of Europe is melting under heatwaves, Les Grumpies are playing it smart and staying in Switzerland. Destination? Montreux – the elegant lakeside town where the air is fresher, the mood jazzier, and the pace just grumpy enough.

Why Montreux?

Nestled between the lake and the mountains, Montreux is the Swiss Riviera with a twist. Picture palm trees swaying next to snowy peaks, Belle Époque hotels overlooking glistening water, and a promenade that practically begs for an evening stroll with gelato in hand.

Coolcation Highlights:

Lake Geneva – Swim, sail, or just dangle your feet in the turquoise water. The Montreux Jazz Festival – Even Mr. Grumpy taps his paw to the rhythm. Rochers-de-Naye – Hop on the cogwheel train and escape to 2,000 meters above sea level (and a good 10 degrees cooler!). Chillon Castle – A medieval beauty on the lake, and a great place to grumble about the past. Swiss tap water – Cold, clear and drinkable straight from the tap – even Mr. Grumpy says it’s “acceptable.” In a world of overpriced bottled water, this is true luxury.

Fun Fact Parade:

🎷 Freddie Mercury lived here and recorded Queen’s Made in Heaven in Montreux’s Mountain Studios. A statue of him watches over the lake.

🧀 The region is famous for its Vacherin Mont-d’Or cheese – best enjoyed in cooler weather. But hey, who’s judging?

🚰 You can refill your bottle at public fountains – the water is so clean, it often comes straight from alpine springs.

🚃 The GoldenPass Express connects Montreux to Gstaad – a train ride so scenic even Les Grumpies go silent for a minute.

So while others are melting in the Med, we’re staying cool in Switzerland. You’ll find us on the balcony of Hotel Masson, sipping chilled bubbles (or tap water – just as refreshing!) and plotting our next lakeside misadventure.

Vive la Coolcation!