Thanks to its extraordinarily mild climate, Montreux can be called the capital of the Vaud Riviera. The region is characterized by a vegetation of pines, cypresses and palm trees that are more generally found around the Mediterranean basin. Charlie Chaplin, Freddie Mercury and many other world-renowned personalities have lived or are still living on the Vaud Riviera. A long flowery walk along the lake leads from Vevey via Montreux to Chillon Castle. Cultural events such as the Montreux Jazz Festival, as well as countless opportunities for excursions into the mountainous hinterland or on the lake make this city a popular excursion and holiday destination. Many buildings from the golden age of the Belle Époque line the lake shore, including the sumptuous Fairmont Le Montreux Palace. The city also has the Montreux Music and Convention Centre (2M2C).