Stage 49: Lausanne to Vevey – 21km

Lausanne is a remarkable town, blending sheer luxury with history and Swiss efficiency.  The Cathedral of Notre Dame dates back to the 12^th century but its internal decorations were covered over during the Reformation only to be restored in the 20^th century when tourism reformed the Reformation. Every night, 24x7x365 since the 1500s between 22:00 and 2:00 am a “Nightwatchman” selected by the town, climbs the bell tower to announce the hour. The current Nightwatchman is retiring in 2024 to be replaced by a young lady, first woman to hold the position in 600 years.  Progress.

We left Lausanne rested and rejuvenated to wander from one medieval village to the next along Lac Leman (Geneva) on the Montreaux Riviera. The path takes us up through the vineyards that hug the lakeshore in neatly terraced rows of Chasselas vines, grapes already golden in the summer heat.  The vineyards were planted by Cistercian monks (remember them?) and then nationalized during the Reformation.  Foundation stones of the 13^th century Abbeys along the way are still visible.  Also visible, but through a haze due to the extreme heat, are some of the tallest peaks in the Alps including the Matterhorn like a jagged finger sprouting up through the mist.  We arrive in Vevey, the thermostat pushing 95 degrees, to welcome cool beverages in the shade.