Best Areas for Families in Montreux

What families look for

Families purchasing property in Montreux typically prioritise a combination of factors: good schools (local Swiss schools or international schools), safe and green surroundings, space for children to play, proximity to sports and outdoor activities, and a community of other families. The relative importance of these factors varies by family.

Families with younger children tend to prioritise local schools, parks and a family-friendly neighbourhood atmosphere. Families with older children in international education may prioritise proximity to specific schools or the lifestyle amenities of the town centre.

Best areas for families

Saint-Légier and Blonay are consistently among the most popular choices for families in the Montreux area. Both communes offer good local schools, green surroundings, a strong community of other families (including many international families) and reasonable prices compared to the lakeside areas. The hillside setting provides space and a residential atmosphere that is well-suited to family life.

Clarens is another popular choice for families — it has good local schools, a family-friendly atmosphere, access to the lake promenade and prices that are somewhat lower than the main Montreux centre. The neighbourhood has a genuine local community character that appeals to families who want to integrate into Swiss life.

Space and outdoor access

For families who prioritise space and outdoor access, the hillside areas above Montreux — Chernex, Chailly, Fontanivent, Brent — offer larger properties with gardens, green surroundings and easy access to hiking, cycling and outdoor activities. These areas are less convenient for the lake and the main commercial centre, but the quality of life for families with active children is high.

The proximity to skiing is also a consideration for families. The ski resorts of Les Rochers-de-Naye (accessible by rack railway from Montreux), Villars-sur-Ollon and the broader Vaud Alps are within easy reach of all areas in the Montreux region.

Practical considerations

Families should consider the practicalities of daily life in their chosen area: the school commute, the availability of after-school activities, the proximity to supermarkets and everyday amenities, and the ease of access to the lake and outdoor activities.

The Swiss public transport system is excellent, and many families find that a combination of public transport and a car provides all the access they need. Areas that appear remote on a map are often surprisingly accessible by train or bus.

Key points

• Best areas for families: Saint-Légier, Blonay, Clarens
• Saint-Légier and Blonay: good schools, green surroundings, international community
• Clarens: family-friendly, lake access, good local schools, lower prices than centre
• Hillside areas (Chernex, Chailly, Fontanivent): space, gardens, outdoor access
• Ski resorts within easy reach of all Montreux area locations