Bye-bye summer heat - hello to the Vaud Alps

Shimmering air, beading sweat - the height of summer is just around the corner bringing with it the question of how to escape the lowland heat.

The Alpes Vaudoises offer several enticing answers, as Sergei Aschwanden, Director of Villars Tourism, explains: «I have the privilege of working in a wonderful mountain location. From vineyards to glaciers, the Villars-Gryon-Les Diablerets-Bex destination offers a variety of landscapes, activities, and hotels, all within a compact area, perfect for a sports lover like me!»

Cool options in the Alpes Vaudoises include Glacier 3000, featuring the famous Peak Walk by Tissot and the thrilling Alpine Coaster. Another highlight at high altitude is the mirror-smooth rock face, Miroir d'Argentine – For those who prefer exploring mysterious depths, the salt mines of Bex offer a fascinating labyrinth of stairs and underground shafts.

Dive in and enjoy

Summits and tunnels may have their appeal, but the best way to beat the heat is still to jump into the cool water. Fortunately, the Alpes Vaudoises have a large number of mountain lakes, including Lake Frience near the village of Gryon.

Families in particular will find opportunities to swim or barbecue here, and for local specialities it is worth stopping off at the nearby Refuge de Frience. Another option for water lovers is Lake Retaud above the village of Les Diablerets. The best way to reach it is to take a 40-minute hike after a postbus journey to the Col du Pillon.

Still fancy a dip? Then head to Lake Chavonne - the best way to do this is on the historic Bex-Villars-Bretaye cogwheel railway, which celebrated its 125th anniversary in 2023. Other refreshing activities await you in the region.

Four days on the bike

Airstreams also make the summer heat bearable. How about a four-day cycle tour through the Alpes Vaudoises? An excursion organised by Eurotrek takes you from the wine terraces of Lavaux up into the mountains. With the Col de la Croix and Col du Pillon, several pass crossings await before the route winds its way back into the Rhone Valley via Saanenland. Those who want to hone their riding skills will find two suitable bike technique workshops in the destination.

«Swiss Cycling Guide» Lillie Rumpf will give all interested parties valuable tips on energy-saving ascents as well as cornering and braking techniques.

Further information can be found on the Alpes Vaudoises website.