To provide you with the best web experience, we use cookies and tracking technologies in accordance with our Privacy Policy. See more
Discover the lake of Chavonnes, a natural and bucolic lake nestled at 1690 meters, in the middle of nature. This place invites you to stroll and contemplate in all seasons. On skis, snowshoes or on foot, the Chavonnes lake is a popular excursion destination in the region. On the shores of the lake, visit the Lac des Chavonnes restaurant, which offers authentic and tasty cuisine.
THE LAKE OF CHAVONNES IN SUMMER
There are many hiking trails leading to the Lac des Chavonnes.
For an easy, family-friendly walk, take the cogwheel train from Villars to its terminus, Bretaye. Then follow the wide path through the hamlet of Bretaye which takes you to the lake in about 30 minutes.
For a quicker and more effortless access, there is a car-accessible road that takes you close to the lake via La Forclaz or via Vers-l'Eglise (Les Diablerets).The Lac des Chavonnes is a soothing place to walk and sunbathe.
The more courageous ones take a swim in the cool waters or have fun crossing the lake in a paddle or canoe. The more patient ones try their luck at fishing and titillating the trout.
Some animals, goats or cows, spend part of the summer in this idyllic place and cross your path.
THE LAKE OF CHAVONNES IN WINTER
When the mountain pastures are covered with snow, reach the banks of the Lac des Chavonnes on snowshoes or skis. The calm reigns, enjoy the serenity offered by this place located a few steps from the hustle and bustle of the ski area!
HOTEL-RESTAURANT DU LAC DES CHAVONNES
All year round, succumb to the temptation of the Chavonnes restaurant and its lakeside terrace. Here you enjoy a particularly tasty authentic cuisine with regional specialities. These include vol-au-vent with wild mushrooms and trout from the Chavonnes lake with almonds.
For a moment of nature and tranquillity, stay in one of the seven rooms offered by the hotel.
THE LEGEND OF THE LAKE OF CHAVONNES
Legend has it that a treasure is hidden in the lake, guarded by a white dragon. See white diamonds glistening at the bottom of the water, while the more sceptical believe it to be rock encrusted with pyrite, a brilliant mineral.
Accessibility
In winter:
- Via the ski slopes.
- With snowshoes via the path around the lake (approx. 30 minutes from Bretaye).
In summer:
-
On foot, by cog railway from Villars to Bretaye, then 30 minutes on foot along a wide path.
-
On foot via numerous hiking routes (from Les Diablerets, the Col de la Croix or Villars).
-
By mountain bike via the signposted routes.
-
By car via Vers-l'Eglise (Les Diablerets) or via La Forclaz (approx. 45 minutes from Aigle).
FISHING
- Fishing is authorised on Lac des Chavonnes during the summer. The dates are set each year by the State of Vaud.
- Fishing licences can be purchased at the tourist offices or via the website www.vd.ch.
- Fishing is prohibited on all Fridays.
Office du Tourisme de Villars