Walking the Vaudoise Alps, Switzerland

The little-known Vaudoise Alps rise abruptly from the Rhône Valley south of Lake Geneva, reaching impressive heights. With a traditional alpine landscape of jagged snow-capped peaks, wide green valleys and wooded ridges, Alps are an absolute pleasure to discover by foot.

You'll walk through woodland and pastures to La Riondaz for wide-reaching views, before wandering down a wooded ridge via La Grande Crevasse, an impressive cleft in the rock which allows for fabulous views towards Lac Léman (Lake Geneva). You'll enjoy seeing two clear-blue mountain lakes and follow the Crête du Fer ('Iron Ridge') to the small hamlet of Les Mosses. You'll also get a real glimpse of the mighty glacier rising up at the end of the valley. Connected by cable cars, cog railways and pleasant marked walking routes, this is an ideal region in which to enjoy exhilarating walking in the high Alps while staying at traditional and hospitable chalet hotels.

Accommodation:

Le Grand Chalet, Leysin Set high above the vines of the Ormonts Valley, this hotel's panoramic terrace boasts - according to your hosts, the Bonelli family - “the best views in Switzerland”. The same view is enjoyed from many of the bedrooms.

Hotel du Cerf, Le Sepey Located in the centre of the village, this cosy hotel has comfortable rooms, a terrace on which you can enjoy a pre-dinner apéritif and a pleasant restaurant serving local specialities - including 24 varieties of rösti.

Hostellerie Les Sources, Les Diablerets Situated on the outskirts of the village, this comfortable hotel is located by a stream in peaceful gardens. You will find a warm welcome and a cosy bar in which to relax.

Hotel du Golf, Villars This charming hotel has been run by the Angelini family for six generations. It is situated in the centre of the village and almost opposite the local mountain railway station, ideal for direct access to high level walking routes. All rooms are spacious and the majority have a balcony on which to relax and enjoy the excellent views of the Alps and the valley. The hotel's two excellent restaurants are popular and offer local cheese specialities. There is also a 'wellness' spa with sauna, Turkish bath, fitness room and solarium (free).. 

Traveller Reviews of This Trip

Overall, it was one of the most enjoyable holidays we have had and we would have loved to stay longer. We have travelled with Inntravel several times before and find the quality of the holiday experience to be excellent, one reason why we keep coming back to take holidays with you. Mrs Renton, Dorset, 03/08/2011

When selling this holiday, you should emphasise how flexible the routes are! At first sight it looks quite challenging, but by using suggested buses and lifts it can be as leisurely as you like. Yet another wonderful holiday with Inntravel. What a beautiful area this is! Mr J Dimmock, West Midlands, 30/06/2011

We enjoyed the wonderful walk from Col de la Croix along the ridge to Col de Bretagne (having ridden up to Col de la Croix on the free bus!). The lovely weather and flowers along with the views of Mont Blanc were marvellous. Miss P, Hartlepool, 21/07/2009

For more reviews of this trip, see: Reviews of Walking the Vaudoise Alps, Switzerland