Mont de Gourze

Mont de Gourze is a hill above Lake Geneva in the municipality of Bourg-en-Lavaux, canton of Vaud, Switzerland. It rises to roughly 925 m above sea level (sources quote anywhere from 923 to 936 m) and looks down on the Lavaux vineyard terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage landscape. A medieval tower crowns the summit and gives one of the finest lake-and-Alps views in the region.

What is there to see?

The main sight is the Tour de Gourze, a former lookout tower from the Middle Ages. It was restored in the late 19th century and bought by the canton of Vaud in 1910. An internal staircase leads up to a viewing platform. From there you look over Lac Léman, the vineyards stepping down to the shore and the Pre-Alps beyond. On a clear day the panorama reaches the Alps on the French side of the lake.

How do you get there?

Most walks start in Chexbres. A loop from Chexbres via Puidoux to the tower runs about 14 km with around 550 m of climbing, a moderate half-day outing. You can also drive up a narrow, steep paved lane from the south side; the car park sits just below the tower next to the Tour de Gourze restaurant. To the east the hill faces Mont Pèlerin (1,080 m), while to the west lies the Puidoux basin.

When should you go?

Clear days from spring to autumn work best. In autumn the Lavaux vines turn gold and the air is often crisp. Skip foggy days, since the view is the whole point of the climb. An early start gives you softer light over the lake and a quieter summit.

What else is nearby?

Combine the climb with a visit to the wine villages of Lavaux such as Chexbres, Riex and Cully, and a tasting at a local cellar. The medieval Tour de Marsens, in the Dézaley area, is close by. Trails through vineyards and woods make it easy to shape a shorter or longer loop.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Mont de Gourze? About 925 m above sea level. Published figures range from 923 to 936 m.

Can you climb the tower? Yes. An internal staircase leads to a platform with views of the lake and the Alps.

Where is the easiest place to start hiking? Chexbres. The loop via Puidoux is about 14 km with roughly 550 m of ascent.

Can you drive up? Yes, along a narrow, steep paved road from the south. Parking is below the tower, by the restaurant.