Connecting Lake Geneva to the Alpine summits and the high Jura plateaus, the canton of Vaud stretches over a varied territory with surprising resources. From the first snowfall, it turns into a white paradise that offers surprises for anyone wanting to experience something new.
Are you looking for memorable climbs, athletic achievements or unusual winter experiences? The Vaudois Alps and the charming resorts nestling in them will fulfil all your wishes. Imagine hurtling down the largest Vaudois ski region, crossing a suspension bridge between two summits at an altitude of nearly 3,000 metres or whizzing down a sled track at night! All that can be had in Villars-Gryon – Les Diablerets and its exclusive site, Glacier 3000. Just a few miles away, the ski area of Leysin – Col des Mosses, which is renowned for its snow park and unrivalled sunshine, attracts countless ski fans every year. Don’t miss the revolving restaurant called Kuklos and its breathtaking view of Lake Geneva! The Tobogganing Park and the Nordic Space await you at the bottom of the slopes to allow you to discover snow in a different way.
Château-d'Oex – Rougemont – Rossinière is another destination in the land of Vaud, and the host of the International Hot-Air Balloon Festival, definitely worth a visit. You will delight in its idyllic setting and living traditions in the heart of the Swiss mountains. Although the main activity is downhill skiing, there are also many lovely cross-country and winter hiking tracks. Just a stone’s throw from Vevey and Montreux, the Rochers-de-Naye and the Pléiades offer the perfect combination of ski holidays and city tourism, with snowshoeing hikes with a view of the setting sun or visits to Montreux Noël (Christmas market).
Want to relax, take a long walk, and enjoy some magical scenery? The Jura, which culminates at an altitude of 1,700 metres, offers serene, unspoiled nature. The forests of conifers laden with snow provide a sumptuous setting for your leisure activities, from cross-country skiing to snowshoeing. Unless you’d like to relax in a wellness centre? Vallée de Joux, Sainte-Croix / Les Rasses, Saint-Cergue and its cross-border area called “Jura sur Léman” are popular destinations for families and food lovers.
