Alpe des Chaux: All destinations, advice & information for your holidays!
In the canton of Vaud lies the mountain village of Alpe des Chaux. You spend your vacation in the magnificent Swiss mountain world. The holiday destination has much to offer for a summer vacation with children. The show dairy on the Frience-Alm and the pétanque court on the Alpe de Chaux are popular attractions.
Table of contents
Alpe des Chaux - Must-see attractions
Salt mines
The salt mine consists of a 50 km long network of underground tunnels and shafts. For mine visitors, the tunnel entrance is located north of Bex in the Gryonne Valley. There, they descend into the depths by tunnel train. Here you can learn more about the methods of salt extraction and then refresh yourself in the restaurant at a depth of 400 m. From Bex, you can reach the neighboring community of Gryon with the cog railway to the mountain station Alpe des Chaux.
Muveran Mountains
The Muveran Massif includes the Grand Muveran and the Petit Muveran. The impressive rock formation is encircled by the approximately 50 km long high-altitude trail "Tour des Muverans." The starting point of the hike is the Lac de Derborence near Conthey. The route leads over the Col de la Forclaz to Ovronnaz and further over two mountain passes to Lavey-Morcles. Along the way, the Dent Favre and the Dents de Morcles are circled. The latter are among the most beautiful vantage points in the country.
Tanay Lake
Near Lac de Tanay rise the Grammont and the Jumelles twin peaks. The idyllic lake and its surroundings are considered a nature reserve due to the exceptional wildlife and plant life. The amphibians found on the shore are particularly unique. With a bit of luck, you may encounter frogs and alpine salamanders in the densely wooded shore areas, hiding in the shadow of mountain violets and willowherbs. On the western shore of the picturesque mountain lake, the village of Tanay, which gives the lake its name, attracts visitors with its rustic mountain hotel.
Chillon Castle
The foundations for Chillon Castle were laid in the 12th century. Later, the architect James of St. George designed large parts of the castle. Chillon Castle stands on the rocky island Île de Chillon on the eastern shore of Lake Geneva. Only a few meters separate the island from the lakeshore. In the background, the mountain range of the Dents du Midi rises, forming a picturesque contrast to the lake and the castle. Today, the castle houses a museum with changing exhibitions.
Roc d'Orsay
It starts with the Roc d’Orsay gondola lift at 1,272 meters. From here, the lift overcomes an altitude difference of almost 700 meters, so you arrive at almost 2,000 meters. Here is the access point to the Villars-Gyron-Les-Diablerets ski area. In winter, most vacationers use the Roc d’Orsay gondola lift to reach the slopes on the mountain of the same name. In summer, you can reach idyllic hiking trails this way. The gondolas can accommodate up to eight people.
Gryon
From Gryon, a mountain railway goes to Alpe-des-Chaux, a popular mountain station. From here, skiers have access to the ski area that includes Gryon, Villars, and Les Diablerets. Thanks to the Bex-Villars-Bretaye cog railway, Gryon is well connected to the public transport network. In summer, the surroundings of Gryon transform into a hiking paradise. On a hiking tour, you can discover the Lac de Derborence, which is surrounded by a dense pine forest. Above the northern shore of the mountain lake rise the Diablerets, the Devil's Mountains.
Alpe des Chaux - Secret spots
The Salt Mines of Bex
The salt mines of Bex are a unique historical and geological landmark. These mines have a long history dating back to the 15th century and are still in operation today, making them one of the oldest active salt mines in Europe. Visitors can take a guided tour through the labyrinth of tunnels and chambers. This tour provides insights into the traditional methods of salt extraction.
Domaine De Trecord
The Domaine De Trecord is a picturesque winery known for its quality and the charm of its location. Situated amidst the breathtaking Swiss landscape, this winery offers an excellent opportunity to taste some of the best local wine varieties. Visitors to the Domaine De Trecord can participate in wine tastings and learn more about viticulture and winemaking.
Alpine Garden La Rambertia
In the idyllic mountain world of Rochers-de-Naye near Montreux, lies the alpine garden La Rambertia. It comprises around 1,000 different plant species. Depending on the snow conditions, the alpine garden is accessible to visitors from June to mid-October. The mountain trail Tour des Dentaux runs all around with beautiful panoramas.
Lake Chavonnes
Like a blue jewel, Lac des Chavonnes shines amidst the mountain landscape of the Vaud Alps. The picturesque lake is situated at an altitude of 1,690 m above Villars-sur-Ollon. From the Bretaye station, Lac de Chavonnes can be reached on foot in about half an hour.
Alpe des Chaux - In 3 days
Day 1
Start your first day in Alpe-des-Chaux with a stroll through the village to admire the characteristic architecture and picturesque landscape. Visit local craft shops offering traditional Swiss products and enjoy a hearty breakfast in one of the cozy cafes. Take the opportunity for a hike to Lac de Bretaye, an idyllic mountain lake, or take the mountain railway, which offers breathtaking views over the Alps. At the lakeside, you can relax in the sun or refresh yourself in the crystal-clear water. Return to the village for lunch, where you can try typical Swiss dishes like fondue or rösti in a local restaurant. Spend the afternoon with a walk through nature before ending the day in a cozy bar with a glass of regional wine.
Day 2
On the second day in Alpe-des-Chaux, a mountain bike tour through the breathtaking forests and meadows of the area is on the agenda. Choose from a variety of routes suitable for all difficulty levels and offering impressive views. Enjoy the feeling of freedom as you cycle through the picturesque landscape, and stop at viewpoints to enjoy the spectacular mountain views. In the afternoon, a visit to a local cheese dairy is recommended to gain insight into traditional cheese-making and to sample different varieties. Here you have the opportunity to talk to the cheesemakers and learn more about their craftsmanship. In the afternoon, discover the rich flora and fauna of the region on one of the many hiking trails. The evening is a good time to dine in one of the village's top-notch restaurants, where you can enjoy more local specialties in a warm and inviting atmosphere. End the day with a relaxing evening walk under the starry sky of the Alps.
Day 3
Use your last day in Alpe-des-Chaux to experience the diverse seasonal activities. In winter, the local ski resorts offer a true winter wonderland with their excellent slopes for all experience levels and picturesque cross-country trails. For snowshoe hikers, there are also special routes that lead through quiet, snowy forests. In summer, Lac des Chavonnes transforms into a lively meeting point for swimmers, sunbathers, and picnic lovers. Take the opportunity for a boat ride on the lake or explore the surroundings on one of the many hiking trails and enjoy the peace and beauty of nature. In the afternoon, you can take a final bike ride or hike to enjoy the spectacular alpine landscape. Settle down on one of the numerous panoramic terraces to admire the view of the surrounding mountains. To conclude your stay, a dinner at one of the local restaurants is recommended, where you can end the day with culinary delights and an impressive view of the sunset over the Alps.