Lausanne

Although there are traces of human activity in the Lausanne region dating back to 6000 BC, it was not until the second half of the 18th century that, little by little, the city began to acquire international prestige. This was the result of accounts written by travellers like Jean-Jacques Rousseau who were impressed by the area’s beautiful landscapes, pleasant climate and cultured society.

The early 19th century marked an important period in Lausanne’s demographic, economic and cultural development. Tanneries, textile mills, dyers and other new industries sprang up and flourished throughout the region from around 1830 onwards. Public baths opened. Glovers and jewellers made names for themselves that rivalled the reputations of Geneva craftsmen. It was also at this time that the first banks set up.

Nowadays as a cultural centre, hub of innovation for French-speaking Switzerland and Olympic capital of the world, Lausanne is one of the Lake Geneva region’s main economic engines. The city is home to numerous international federations and associations and to globally renowned schools that include the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL), the Faculty of Business and Economics (HEC) and the Lausanne Hotel Management School (EHL).

Lausanne is also a meeting point between the Lake Geneva area and Neuchâtel. With Banque Bonhôte et Cie SA it shares a love of work well done, expertise and a trailblazing spirit. Farming and wine-making, an important part of life in both regions, embody values rooted in the earth.