Attractions and Places To See around Villars - Top 20

Villars offers stunning natural beauty. You can visit The Nesque gorges from Villes-sur-Auzon for incredible views, or the unique Provençal Colorado of Rustrel with its vibrant ocher formations. Other notable natural highlights include Grand Chamossaire, Lac des Chavonnes, and Col de la Croix, all offering panoramic views of the Rhône Valley, Dents du Midi, and Mont Blanc. The Nesque Gorge Road also provides spectacular scenery, especially in its eastern section.

Yes, the region has several historical and cultural points of interest. The ancient Pont Julien, a Roman bridge dating back to 3 AD, is a remarkable architectural site. You can also explore the 13th-century Château de la Roche in the village of Ollon, or discover the vineyards in the Ollon Wine-Producing District. The village of Villars itself is known for its traditional Alpine chalets and the Temple de Villars-sur-Ollon.

Families will find several engaging options. The Provençal Colorado of Rustrel and The Ochres of Roussillon are both marked as family-friendly, offering unique landscapes to explore. The Pont Julien is also suitable for family visits. Additionally, the Villars Sports Centre provides indoor and outdoor swimming pools, tennis courts, a pumptrack skatepark, and an ice skating arena. During winter, tobogganing and treasure hunts are popular family activities.

The Villars region is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy extensive hiking, mountain biking, and running. For detailed routes, explore the Hiking around Villars guide, the MTB Trails around Villars guide, or the Running Trails around Villars guide. Beyond these, skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and paragliding are popular, with the Villars-Gryon-Les Diablerets ski area offering 112 kilometers of slopes.

Villars is a year-round destination. For skiing and snowboarding, winter is ideal, with the season typically running from December to April. For hiking and mountain biking, the summer months from June to September offer pleasant weather and lush alpine meadows. The shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) can also be beautiful, with fewer crowds and vibrant colors, though some higher trails might still be inaccessible in early spring.

Absolutely! The Train Bex-Villars-Bretaye (BVB) is a scenic cogwheel train that offers a charming journey and is a primary way to access the Bretaye ski area and its picturesque mountain lakes. It's a great way to enjoy the alpine landscapes without driving.

For relaxation, you can visit Les Bains de Villars, a local wellness center offering thermal baths. For a broader experience, the Bains de Lavey Thermal Spa, home to Switzerland's hottest thermal springs, is also accessible for a day trip from Villars.

Several exciting excursions are within reach. You can visit Glacier 3000 for year-round skiing and the thrilling Peak Walk by Tissot suspended bridge. Explore the historic active salt mines in Bex, or discover the iconic Chillon Castle situated on Lake Geneva. These offer a diverse range of experiences from natural wonders to historical landmarks.

Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking panoramic views, especially from spots like Grand Chamossaire and the Nesque Gorges. The unique geological formations of the Provençal Colorado of Rustrel and The Ochres of Roussillon are often highlighted for their vibrant colors and picturesque trails. The blend of natural beauty with well-maintained outdoor activity options and charming village atmosphere is also a common favorite.

Yes, Villars boasts an 18-hole golf course. The Villars Golf Club is uniquely situated at 1,600 meters on a south-facing plateau, offering a distinctive golfing experience with spectacular mountain views as your backdrop.

Yes, paragliding is a popular activity in Villars for those seeking an adrenaline rush and unparalleled bird's-eye views of the alpine scenery. Several local operators offer tandem flights and courses for various skill levels.