Attractions and Places To See around Villars - Top 20

For families, the Canal du Forez offers a pleasant and accessible path for walks and cycling. Additionally, the Parc Aventure / Villars Fun Park provides activities like giant slides and games, perfect for children and adults alike. The scenic Train Bex-Villars-Bretaye is also a fun experience for all ages, offering a journey through the alpine landscape.

You can explore several historical sites, including Rochetaillée Castle and Essalois Castle, both offering historical insights and scenic views. The Gouffre d'Enfer Dam is another significant man-made monument with a rich history, dating back to Napoleon III's request. Further afield, the Bex Salt Mines offer an interesting tour into their subterranean world, and the iconic Chillon Castle on Lake Geneva is a prominent historical landmark.

Villars is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. You can enjoy panoramic views from Grand Chamossaire, the highest point in the commune of Ollon, which features 'La Dolce Vista' discovery trail. The area also boasts stunning vistas of the Rhône Valley, Lake Geneva, and peaks like Mont Blanc and the Dents du Midi. For tranquil natural settings, visit Lac des Chavonnes or Lac de Bretaye, both beautiful mountain lakes ideal for hiking and relaxation.

Yes, the greater Villars area is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering over 300 kilometers of marked hiking trails. You can enjoy walks along the Path along the Loire River, which provides breathtaking views of the Loire gorges, or a pleasant stroll along the Canal du Forez. For more extensive options, explore the numerous trails around Lac des Chavonnes and Bretaye. You can find detailed running trails around Villars in our dedicated guide: Running Trails around Villars.

The region offers extensive cycling opportunities with 130 kilometers of mountain biking trails. For road cycling and touring, you can find various routes suitable for different skill levels. Explore options like the 'Hauteurs de Sorbiers – St. Christo Chapel loop' or the 'Ascent of Mont Morin loop'. More details on cycling routes can be found in our guides: Cycling around Villars and Road Cycling Routes around Villars.

Visitors frequently praise the impressive scale and historical significance of sites like the Gouffre d'Enfer Dam, often highlighting its vertiginous views. The scenic trails along the Loire River are cherished for their breathtaking perspectives, and the tranquility of places like the Canal du Forez is highly appreciated for relaxing walks and bike rides. The magnificent viewpoints from castles like Essalois Castle are also a consistent favorite.

Yes, Les Bains de Villars is a modern wellness center offering various treatments and facilities, including indoor and outdoor swimming pools, all with panoramic alpine views. It's an ideal place to relax and unwind after a day of exploring.

Villars is home to the only 18-hole golf course in the Vaudois Alps. Situated at 1,600 meters, the Villars Golf Club offers exceptional scenery and stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Mont Blanc, providing a unique golfing experience.

Villars offers a wide array of activities throughout the year. Summer is ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and enjoying the mountain lakes like Lac des Chavonnes for swimming. Autumn brings spectacular colors to the forests, especially around the Gouffre d'Enfer Dam. Winter transforms Villars into a ski resort, with access to slopes via the Roc d'Orsay Gondola and the Train Bex-Villars-Bretaye. The choice depends on your preferred activities.

Beyond the well-known spots, exploring the Ollon Wine-Producing District offers a unique experience. Located on south-facing slopes, you can discover vineyards and sample local wines. The picturesque Villars village itself, with its traditional Swiss chalets and charming streets, also holds a quiet charm often appreciated by visitors seeking an authentic alpine atmosphere.

While not directly in Villars, Glacier 3000 is easily accessible and offers year-round alpine experiences. It features activities like skiing and the famous 'Peak Walk by Tissot' suspension bridge, providing an exhilarating day trip option from Villars.