And here come the audio-guides, out of the museums and down into the town! In Morges, they take the form of an iPod that is hardly bigger than a large credit card. A companion that is not just audio, but also sends images that allow us to get our bearings and, in case of overcast weather, to see the details of a monument or of a scenic viewpoint.
A tour that is told in 13 'stations' that can be done at your own rhythm and in the order you prefer. There is, of course, the Parc de l'Indépendance with its little bridges that span the Morges and the statue of little Hercules, in honour of Louis Soutter, a Morge artist as extravagant as he was brilliant, and the fortified castle which has kept watch since the 13th century. The course of the tour also passes by the astonishing Alexis Forel Museum, with its exhibits and « Italian » courtyard which dates from 1670, and the Paderewski Museum in honour of the eponymous Polish pianist and composer who lived in Morges at the end of the 19th century.
Lots of history and architecture, as you might expect, but also some amusing anecdotes and humorous allusions. Between the stations, the audio-guide lets you see and hear some steps, tells how the nets are made ready for bass fishing and inspires cravings for chocolate! An idea that should succeed in winning over even the most hesitant of city sightseers. The iPod can be rented by the day at the tourist bureau in Morges for the modest sum of CHF 5. and can be listened to in English, in German or in French.
More information : http://www.morges.ch/
Photo: CCA