Montreux (1950s)

[Music] [Applause] One of the brightest jewels of Switzerland is Montre 1500 ft above sea level on the famous Samplon route to Italy and on the shores of the Lake of Geneva, the largest lake in Europe. Spring arrives early in Montreal and by mid-March the flowering trees form a background to all activities. Their colors enhanced by the glorious sunshine and contrasting with the blue sky and the blue of the lake. Montre has an exceptional climate which makes it an ideal holiday resort all the year round. [Music] No wonder that people travel here from all over the world. There are more than 50 hotels ranging from luxury establishments to modest but comfortable ponio. [Music] There is also a friendly youth hostel as well as a perfectly equipped camping ground. Montre is an ideal place to stop at before undertaking the crossing of the Samplong. The wise traveler includes Montre in his itinerary and a glance at some of the visitors shows its worldwide reputation. But although spring is around us, winter lingers on in the mountains and offers us the joys of winter sport. Being so near, the visitor can enjoy skiing or other snow sports in the space of an afternoon. A comfortable mountain railway takes less than an hour to reach the Russia Da. Nearly 7,000 ft up with wonderful views of the countryside. [Music] Despite the snow around us, the powerful sunshine keeps us warm and exhilarated. And whether we go to ski or just to watch, there is enjoyment for all. Here [Music] is an experience not to be missed. [Music] On the edge of the snow, we can see spring invading winter's conquest. And the crocuses are already showing themselves. [Music] [Applause] April has hardly gone before the fields are a mess of narcissi and the air is laden with their sweet perfume. It is a pleasure to pick some so that we may send our friends this early reminder of spring. [Music] The famous Narcissus Festival is celebrated in Montre every other year and the whole town is on fate. The beautiful floral parade combines a kaleidoscope of flowers with the captivating smiles of the town's prettiest daughters. There is, of course, a funf fair and determined battles of confetti which go on until a display of fireworks sets the seal on a wonderful day. [Music] For those seeking rest and relaxation, there is nothing to beat an afternoon's cruise on the lake. A favorite excursion is to the castle of Shillong. This is the situation of the story told in Baron's prisoner of Shillong. It also has memories of Shelley Dumar and Victor Hugo. Its present form goes back to the 13th century and its architecture has a historical charm reminiscent of the fairy tale castles of our youth. [Music] [Applause] In addition to the lake steamers, there are the attractive comfortable motorboats offering a wide choice of excursions. Cruising on the lake certainly offers endless pleasure and variety. [Music] There is pleasure too in wandering through the charming streets and gardens of Montra itself and gazing at the endless varieties of souvenirs in the shops. There are many attractive cafes and many attractive refreshments too. Here you can sit and relax in a comfortable chair in the sunshine and chat to friends and new acquaintances. [Applause] This is the time to decide on which excursions you will take of the more than two dozen shown in the booklet. Perhaps you'll take a trip to the great St. Bernard Pass. 2,000 years ago, this pass was used by the Romans. It was here that St. Bernard founded the hospice that still bears his name and where you can see the famous dog. [Music] Maybe we'll go to Zerat by mountain railway. Zerat lies at the foot of the Matter Horn and well deserves the title of capital of mountaineering. From Zerat, a mountain railway goes to the Gornrat over 10,000 ft high where you really feel on top of the world. Then there is Dua, the medieval town overlooked by its famous castle. Endowed with a glorious past and a splendid situation, this region is known today by its cheese with its worldwide reputation. [Music] Another favorite excursion is by Railor Road through the Lurchburg region to the Blue Lake. This wonderful lake of the deepest blue but clearest water is situated in the most beautiful surroundings. [Music] But let's return to Montre to see some of the many events held on the lake. Yacht racing in a perfect setting, a lovely spectacle enjoyed by all. [Music] And water ski jumping, thrilling the large crowd seated in front of the casino. The pick of the world skiers compete for the Lake of Geneva trophy. The casino itself is a great center of amusement by day or by night. Maybe you wish to dance or to have a mild flutter at bool with its sophisticated excitement. [Music] Autumn brings a golden tinge to the foliage, and the ever persistent sunshine calls you out of door to see the countryside in its rough beauty. [Music] The beautifully situated golf course is a haven to the followers of the wei small ball. The Montre golf course is beautifully kept and the clubhouse has every amenity. Tennis courts are numerous both along the lakeside and higher up at Leavore and Gon. For those who are fond of riding, there is the Rome plane only a few minutes from the center of Montro. The countryside