The Caux Palace: An exceptional venue open to all
13/02/2025
Nestled in the mountains above Lake Geneva, the Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation and its emblematic centre for peace and reconciliation, the Caux Palace, continue to pursue their mission of dialogue and exchange while also making the centre more accessible to the local community. Ignacio Packer, Executive Director of the Foundation, shared insights into the vision and future of this unique place in an interview with journalist Cyril Zoller on Radio Chablais.
A site steeped in history and looking to the future
The Caux Palace, inaugurated in 1902 as a luxury hotel of the Belle Époque, has borne witness to history, serving as a sanctuary for refugees and prisoners of war during the 1940s. Since 1946, thanks to a group of Swiss citizens who bought the palace, it has served as a space dedicated to dialogue, reconciliation and peace, in particular for the Initiatives of Change network. Today it continues to welcome participants from around the world to engage in dialogue on critical issues including the revitalisation of democratic values and Inner Development Goals, which will be central themes in the Caux Forum this July.
Strengthening connections with the region is a key focus for the Caux Foundation. ‘This place belongs to us all, and we want it to be a space where everyone can have a unique experience,’ explains Ignacio Packer..
A rich programme accessible to all
In its efforts to foster greater local engagement, the Caux Foundation is running the Caux Encounters event, scheduled for 15 March 2025 - a day dedicated to inspiration, creativity and connection. On the programme: inspiring conversations and encounters, mysterious and mesmerizing performances by the Cie Zappar, a shared meal and moments that bring us together, a dynamic concert with pianist Xavier Silva Ferreira, a thought-provoking exhibition by Syrian visual artist Dilawer Dildar, and to round off the evening, a little touch of humour and caustic surprise.
‘We want to break down barriers, build bridges between cultures and offer new opportunities for sharing,’ Ignacio emphasises. The event on 15 March is free and open to everyone. You can register here!
Art also plays an essential role in this vision, with the Caux Palace hosting cultural and artistic events throughout the year in partnership with the Saison Culturelle de Montreux, Septembre Musical and other regional partners. ‘Art is a powerful tool for connection and creative expression ,’ says Ignacio Packer.
Additionally, the Caux Palace's exceptional spaces are also available for private occasions, offering local residents the opportunity to experience this exceptional setting.
A commitment to local and global collaboration
With the support of the municipality of Montreux and in close collaboration with the Montreux Tourist Office, the Caux Palace continues to develop its offers. Collaborations with local associations, such as EVAM and the PAIRES association, reflect our commitment to inclusion and intercultural dialogue.
Beyond its role as a meeting place, the Caux Palace is also partially leased to a prestigious hotel school of the Swiss Education Group, fostering synergies between students, visitors and the wider community.
Listen to the podcast with Ignacio Packer (in French):
Welcome to the Caux Palace: a call for local initiatives
Caux is more than a historic landmark—it is a living, breathing space where ideas take shape, relationships are forged, and new initiatives find a home. Whether through dialogue, artistic expression, or community engagement, the Caux Palace invites all to take part in shaping its future.
Interested? Find more information on:
- our hospitality offers
- our guided tours of the Caux Palace
- our initiatives and our upcoming events
- our training and facilitation offers
- or subscribe to our newsletter
SEE YOU SOON AT THE CAUX PALACE!
