Things To Do
in Epalinges
Epalinges is a leafy, family-friendly municipality just west of Lausanne in the Vaud canton, offering hillside views over Lake Geneva and quick access to urban amenities. With a strong sense of residential charm, it blends quiet residential streets with easy reach to vineyards, parks, and the surrounding Alps. The area serves as a convenient base for exploring Lausanne, the Lavaux wine terraces, and the Geneva lake region.
Visitors will find a peaceful countryside vibe paired with excellent public transport to the city's cultural and culinary offerings.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a quaint café in Epalinges, savoring local Swiss pastries and coffee. After breakfast, take a stroll through the picturesque village streets, admiring the stunning architecture and the backdrop of the Swiss Alps. Stop by the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps pick up some fresh produce or handmade crafts.
After a delightful lunch at a traditional Swiss restaurant, visit the historic Church of Epalinges, known for its beautiful stained glass windows and serene ambiance. Spend some time hiking the scenic trails around the village, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Lavaux vineyards and Lake Geneva. Consider visiting a local winery for a tasting session, where you can learn about the region’s wine production.
As the sun sets, dine at a rooftop restaurant that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Enjoy a delectable meal featuring seasonal ingredients and regional specialties, paired with a fine Swiss wine. Conclude your evening with a leisurely walk around the village, taking in the tranquil atmosphere as the stars begin to twinkle above.
Begin your day early with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before setting out to explore the UNESCO-listed Lavaux Vineyards. Take a scenic walk along the terraced vineyards, where you can marvel at the stunning vistas of Lake Geneva and the surrounding mountains. Stop at a viewpoint to capture the perfect photograph of this breathtaking landscape.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the vineyards, surrounded by the beauty of nature. Continue your vineyard adventure with a guided tour of a local winery, where you can learn about the winemaking process and sample some exquisite wines. Engage with the winemakers and gain insights into the history of viticulture in this region.
Return to Epalinges and freshen up before heading out for dinner at a cozy bistro that specializes in regional cuisine. Experience the local flavors as you indulge in dishes such as fondue or raclette. End your evening with a relaxing stroll along the lakeshore, listening to the gentle lapping of the water.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $18-28 |
| 🚆Public transportation day pass | $10-20 |
| 🏨Budget hotel/hostel per night | $90-180 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-6 |
| 🍷Glass of wine at a restaurant | $9-16 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Lausanne and the Lavaux wine region
- Excellent public transport and safe environment
- Scenic lake and mountain views with a peaceful residential atmosphere
- Accessibility to vineyards, parks, and museums
- Higher prices compared with rural areas
- Epalinges itself has limited nightlife and dining options
- Public transport requires planning for late-night returns
- Hills and stairs can be challenging for some visitors
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est la gare?" - Where is the train station?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît." - The bill, please.
Places to Visit in Epalinges
Visit one of these nice places.
A classic lakeside shot with the Alps in the distance and sailboats on the water; ideal during golden hour.
Terraced vineyards rolling down toward Lake Geneva; a UNESCO-listed panorama that shines in late afternoon light.
Gothic cathedral and narrow stone lanes offer architectural textures and atmospheric street scenes.
Wide open views over the lake, grassy terraces, and the Palais de Rumine nearby for architectural contrasts.
A wooden tower with a forest backdrop and city skyline glimpses; great for a top-down panorama.
Food in Epalinges
Epalinges Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty dish of braised leeks and potatoes with sausage, a regional specialty of Vaud that pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine.
Must-Try!
A classic Swiss cheese fondue, perfect for chilly evenings; commonly available at traditional bistros and chalets in Lausanne and nearby towns.
Melted cheese served with potatoes, pickles, and onions; popular in winter months and widely available in mountain areas and some valley eateries.
Crispy fried potato cake often served as a side or base for toppings; widely found across bistros in the Lausanne region.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market with seasonal produce, cheeses, breads, and local specialties; great for tasting-and-snapping photos of daily life in Lausanne.
Occasional markets and food stalls along the Ouchy promenade, offering snacks, quick bites, and regional wines during warmer months.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be punctual for appointments and meetings. A polite handshake is a common greeting; address people with formal titles unless invited to use first names.
French is the primary language; English is understood in many tourist areas. A few basic phrases in French are appreciated.
Residential areas prefer quiet evenings; avoid loud behavior late at night in quiet neighborhoods.
Keep hands visible and use cutlery; wait for hosts to begin when dining; tipping is modest unless service is exceptional.
Safety
Tipping in Epalinges
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are sometimes included; if not, rounding up or leaving 5–10% for good service is customary in restaurants. Cash and card payments are widely accepted, with contactless options common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with occasional rain; parks and gardens come to life. Great time for outdoor photography and riverside strolls, though layers are helpful.
Warm to hot days with plenty of sunshine; long daylight hours enable evening lakeside strolls and sunset photos over the lake. Stay hydrated and wear sun protection.
Mild-to-cool days with autumn foliage along the Lavaux terraces and lakefront. Perfect for golden-hour photography and wine harvest scenes.
Cool and crisp with occasional snow; quieter streets and festive lights in Lausanne; layering is essential and indoor photography can capture cozy interior scenes.
Epalinges at Night
Hiking in Epalinges
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest loops near Lausanne with an ascent to a viewing tower offering city views.
UNESCO-listed trails along the lake with sweeping views and winery stops.
Airports
How to reach Epalinges by plane.
Major international hub about 60-75 minutes by train or car from Epalinges; frequent domestic and international connections.
Smaller regional airport serving limited routes; about 2-3 hours by train from Lausanne area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant in Epalinges and Lausanne; services are widely available in French with English often understood in tourist areas.
Presence of international professionals and students due to proximity to universities and multinational workplaces.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Nearby Alpine resorts offer winter sports within a short drive or train ride from Lausanne.
Popular around Lake Geneva with flat lake paths and scenic routes; rowing clubs based in Lausanne.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Epalinges.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in the Lausanne area offer vegetarian options; look for veggie plates, seasonal risottos, salads, and vegetable-forward dishes. Ask for cheese-free fondue or raclette if dairy-free is required, and consider local vegetable sides to balance a meal.