Renowned for leading the world in sustainability, are we at all surprised that the world’s first vegetarian restaurant was born in Switzerland? Probably not. But you will be surprised at how old it is and how many customers are actually vegetarian.

Sometimes you think Switzerland must be a preview of heaven. Snow-dusted mountains, lush meadows full of happy cows, tumbling waterfalls and blue lakes all combine in stunning landscapes. Then there are the towns: pastel-painted, trim and tidy, cascading with geraniums and gnarly with the passing centuries.

Sitting high on a sweeping bend of Lake Geneva with stunning alpine views, Switzerland's Lausanne is a cultured, graceful city with a youthful population and splendid natural setting, making it well worth exploring. Brian Johnston helps you find the best bits with the essential Lausanne city guide.