Alpine Vibes - Culture, Creativity & Swiss Innovation - Montreux, Switzerland
Why Montreux?
Nestled between the sparkling waters of Lake Geneva and the towering peaks of the Alps, Montreux is one of Switzerland’s most scenic and vibrant destinations. It offers:
- Breathtaking Alpine landscapes and lakeside living
- A dynamic cultural scene, home of the renowned Montreux Jazz Festival
- Proximity to iconic Swiss sites such as Geneva, Lausanne, Gruyères, and Château de Chillon
- A safe, youthful atmosphere filled with international students and creatives
Program Overview
The Alpine Vibes summer course is a unique blend of creativity, innovation, and cultural immersion. Designed to foster global citizenship, it combines academic exploration with hands-on experience, personal development, and travel in one of Europe’s most inspiring settings.
Culture, Creativity & Swiss Innovation
- Location: Montreux, Switzerland
- Duration: 4 Weeks (Summer Program)
- Target Audience: Students aged 18–25
- Language of Instruction: English
- Level: Beginner – Open to All Majors
- Credits: Certificate of Completion or 3 ECTS (for partner universities)
Duration: 4 Weeks
Seasonal Availability: (Summer Program)
Tour Itinerary
Week 1: Welcome to Swiss Life
Welcome brunch by the lake and paddleboarding introduction
Interactive workshop: Living the Swiss Way – Culture, Etiquette & Chocolate
Team scavenger hunt along the Montreux waterfront
Guided excursion to Château de Chillon and Montreux Old Town
Creative task: “Who I Am & Why I’m Here” – personal digital story
Week 2: Create & Innovate
Innovation workshop: How Switzerland Thrives with Smart Solutions
“Build-A-Biz” startup challenge – 90 minutes to pitch an idea (with prizes)
Industry visits: EPFL Tech Campus and Nestlé Global HQ
Sunset cruise across Lake Geneva
Innovation challenge: Rebranding a classic Swiss product for Gen Z
Week 3: Explore & Express
Field trip: Gruyères chocolate and cheese experience
Alpine photography challenge in Rochers-de-Naye
Creative media workshop: Travel Like a Storyteller (intro to video/blog)
Sustainability module: Green Living in Switzerland
Group project: Create a digital eco-tourist guide to Montreux
Week 4: Present & Celebrate
Final team project: Digital showcase (reel, video, blog, or photo essay)
Exhibition open to peers, guests, and local community
Cultural celebration: Fondue dinner, Swiss trivia, and talent show
Graduation ceremony: Lakeside certificate presentation with music & mocktails
Learning Outcomes
- Upon completion of the program, students will gain
- A professional digital portfolio (video, blog, or multimedia project)
- Exposure to real-world innovation and sustainability in a Swiss context
- Cross-cultural communication and teamwork skills
- Lifelong friendships and global awareness
- Certificate or academic transcript (ECTS option available)
Tour Price Includes
- Accommodation in shared student lodgings in Montreux
- Daily workshops, excursions, guest speakers, and activities
- Learning materials, project resources, and certification
- On-site program coordinators and 24/7 student support