This isn’t just a travel guide, this is us, on the Balcony
Lake Geneva, The Alps. Paddle steamers, mountain air, and that unmistakable French rhythm of life.
Hello there, I’m Lindsay — creator of Tales from the Balcony — and I’m so glad you’re here.
For over 15 years I’ve been returning to this beautiful corner of France tucked into the hills above Lake Geneva. What began as visits turned into something more when I found myself unexpectedly living here during the pandemic.
And even now, back in Scotland, I haven’t quite left.
Because there’s still so much to tell.
Explore the Balcony
Here’s what you’ll find:
- Life in Thollon – village life in the foothills of the Alps
- On Lake Geneva – ferries, paddle steamers and hidden shores
- Outdoor adventures – walks, views and mountain air
- Beyond the Balcony – day trips, longer journeys and places just a little further afield
This little corner of France has everything — snow-covered slopes in winter, sunlit shores in summer, and a way of life that quietly draws you in.
I write about places, yes — but also the details that make them linger.
The history. The art. The food. And that unmistakable French je ne sais quoi.
You might find yourself strolling past lakeside villas you can only glimpse from the water…or watching a paddle steamer glide into port, flags flying and decks buzzing with life.
Or perhaps it’s quieter than that.
A train glinting in the sun across the lake, red kites circling overhead. Cowbells drifting up from the meadows below.
An then there’s the breeze…no, wait — that’s the sound of a deep sigh as you sink into a chair on the balcony, coffee in hand, and realise that in some places, all is still right with the world.
I’ll show you how to get there, where to go, where to stay, and how to explore with a car — along with the small local details that make all the difference.
There’ll be day trips, longer journeys, and the occasional temptation involving Tartiflette or Tarte Tatin.
This is more than just a travel guide.
It’s a collection of places I keep returning to — and I’d love to take you with me.
The balcony doors are always open.
There’s coffee on the hob, wine in the fridge…and plenty more to discover.
And if you’d like to see what’s happening on the Balcony in between stories, you can find me on Instagram — usually somewhere between a lake view and a good lunch.