Overview
Leysin is a non-posh, non-pretentious mountain village in the Vaud Alps above Montreux, offering spectacular Alpine panoramas including Mont Blanc to the Eiger at more competitive prices than resorts further into Valais. It combines a ski resort with awesome off-piste possibilities, five international schools (making English widely spoken), bohemian galleries on Rue du Commerce, and the iconic Kuklos revolving restaurant at the Berneuse.
Budget Travel · Day Trips · Festivals · Museums · Nature
Before you go
Connectivity
Free Wi-Fi available at Restaurant de la Patinoire, Hôtel Tour d'Ai, and Bed & Breakfast l'Épicéa. Mobile coverage good in village.
Culture
Leysin has earned reputation as college center of Switzerland with five international schools. English widely spoken, especially with American accent from Leysin American School.
Money
Switzerland uses Swiss Francs (CHF). Credit cards widely accepted but carry some for smaller purchases and tips. Prices in Leysin are more competitive than Valais resorts.
Safety
Village is generally safe. The sledding run opposite Patinoire is bowl-shaped preventing loss of control. Tobogganing park suitable for beginners and nervous skiers.
Transport
Train access from Montreux or Lausanne via Aigle line. Free village bus runs hourly in winter and summer seasons. Taxis available: Taxi ABC (+41 24 493 22 93). Cable car to Berneuse operates year-round.
Weather
Alpine climate with ski season December to April and summer season mid-June to mid-September. Weather can change rapidly in mountains.