Chernex: Hiking Routes, Chalet Style and MOB Tradition

Chernex lies in the heights above Montreux, at an altitude of about 580 metres, above Clarens on the western slope of Cubly. Two routes pass through Chernex, each offering a different focus: the “Hauteurs de Montreux” route and the cultural walking route “Sur les traces de Mendelssohn 01”. Chalet architecture and the MOB workshops add built and technical aspects of the area to the picture.

Two Routes, Two Different Focuses

The “Hauteurs de Montreux” route passes through Montreux, Clarens, Chernex and Pallens before returning to Montreux. Route information retrieved in August 2026 gives a length of 5.38 kilometres and a duration of 1 hour and 45 minutes; in terms of technical difficulty, it rates the route T1, or easy. Length, time and difficulty offer different points of reference for planning. As route statistics may be updated, check the information again before setting off on your hike.

The cultural walking route “Sur les traces de Mendelssohn 01” runs from Vevey through Montreux and Chernex to Les Avants. It forms the first stage of a trail dedicated to Mendelssohn. The connection with Chernex is associated with the date 6 August 1831; the place is referred to as “Charney”. This gives you two different ways to explore the area: the “Hauteurs de Montreux” route focuses on the named stops and specific distance and time details, while the Mendelssohn route highlights its cultural connection.

Local Character and Walks

Many houses in Chernex display the typically Swiss chalet style, with wood and sloping roofs. The condition and visibility of individual buildings may change. The winding lanes on the hillsides are also part of the local character; they offer walkers views of Montreux and Lake Geneva. How clearly these views can be seen may vary depending on vegetation, construction work or the weather.

Another named place is the Chapelle de Chernex, at Ch. de Chaméroz 2, 1822 Chernex. The address helps identify the chapel as a specific local landmark.

Railway Tradition and Culture

A special connection with the MOB can be found in the Chernex workshops: the panoramic windows of the GoldenPass Panoramic trains were specially designed there by the MOB workshops. MOB vehicles were also completely overhauled in the Chernex workshops. The local connection thus ranges from a train’s design feature to work on the vehicles themselves—a technical aspect of local railway tradition distinct from the hiking and cultural routes.

The cultural profile includes a musical heritage as well as events and concerts organised throughout the year. Specific programmes may change. If a concert is important to your trip, check the event dates in advance.

Discover more destinations: Glion.

Go to the main travel overview: Montreux.