18 best summer courses in Montreux

When selecting a destination for enriching summer holidays, several factors are crucial: safety, pristine environment, opportunities for both relaxation and foreign language learning, and sports activities. Switzerland, a contemporary European nation, ticks all these boxes. It offers the chance to study a variety of languages - English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish - and the flexibility to alternate between them.

Montreux's summer camps provide a range of options, from language-focused camps to sports-intensive ones (covering football, volleyball, rock climbing, tennis, swimming, etc.). There are also specialized camps for interests like fashion, design, art history, and painting. Each child undergoes a language assessment and fills out a hobbies questionnaire to ensure placement in appropriate groups based on language ability and interests.

Seasonal Operation of Holiday Camps in Montreux

Montreux's camps run year-round, offering winter camps (early December to late February), spring sessions (early March to mid-May), and summer camps (early June to end of July), each with tailored programs.

Key Features of Montreux's Summer Camps

Montreux's camps are an adventure for any teenager. The nation's stunning natural landscapes make it ideal for outdoor activities and tourism, including for young participants. Summer camps in Montreux typically combine entertainment and language training, though the balance can vary. Some focus on country exploration through excursions, while others emphasize sports. Winter camps may offer extensive skiing programs, whereas summer camps could include sailing or rafting.

Language Programs in Montreux's Summer Camps

Language courses at Montreux camps range in intensity. Some camps offer up to 30 lessons per week for an academic-level focus, issuing international certificates valuable for global education. These often include one of Switzerland's official languages - German, French, or Italian - alongside English.

For a more relaxed approach, thematic language camps focus on conversational skills, complemented by exciting programs like sports, environmental studies, or adventure activities.

International Diversity and Socialization

Montreux's language camps attract children from all over the world, creating an environment where English is the primary mode of communication. This setting fosters rapid speech development, lifelong friendships, and global networking.

Children from the age of 6 can attend, with teenagers typically joining independently from age 12. Upon arrival, children undergo a language assessment for appropriate group placement. Accommodations are provided in school residences or carefully vetted host families, ensuring safety and continuous language immersion.

Accommodations and Activities at Montreux's Summer Camps

Montreux offers various accommodation options, including residences based on university or school campuses, and host families. Most arrangements are 2-4 person rooms with private facilities. Full board meals are included in all programs.

Day camp options are available for families vacationing together, where children spend their days at the camp and evenings with their families.

Enriching Extracurricular and Excursion Programs

Besides academic programs, Montreux camps offer a wide array of sports, entertainment, and excursions. Activities can include football, volleyball, horseback riding, archery, swimming, snowboarding, skiing, and ice skating. Excursions vary by location, with trips to Geneva, Montreux, Lausanne, Verbier, and visits to museums, castles, and amusement parks.

In summary, Montreux's summer camps present an ideal blend of language learning, cultural immersion, and recreational activities, making them a top choice for parents seeking a holistic development experience for their children.

Sarah Rimini

Head of International Student Recruitment at Inspired Education Group

How do you handle homesickness or emotional well-being of the campers?

Our staff members are trained to provide emotional support and create a supportive environment for campers. We have procedures in place to address homesickness and offer activities to help campers feel connected and engaged.