4.6
(987)
8,835
hikers
445
hikes
Hiking around Villarsel-sur-Marly offers diverse landscapes characterized by the Gérine and Sarine rivers, which often feature along the trails. The region includes unique natural rock formations where the Saane river has eroded sandstone, creating distinct cliffs. Canyons and various natural monuments contribute to the dramatic scenery available for exploration. The area provides a range of hiking trails suitable for different fitness levels.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
4.7
(10)
50
hikers
8.08km
02:14
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(9)
44
hikers
7.30km
02:00
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.8
(4)
59
hikers
7.65km
02:06
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(6)
20
hikers
21.6km
05:58
360m
360m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
13
hikers
9.80km
02:38
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The Cistercian Abbey of Hauterive was founded in 1138 by William of Glâne. The abbey was abolished in 1848. After a 91-year break, during which Hauterive first housed the cantonal agricultural school and then the teacher training college, monastic life was able to restart in 1939 thanks to the arrival of a group of Austrian monks from the Wettingen-Mehrerau Abbey (Vorarlberg). At the beginning of the 21st century, the abbey has about twenty monks from Switzerland and various European countries. The monastery church of Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption was built between 1150 and 1160. The arcades of the cloister adjoining the church to the south have been preserved on three sides. The lower parts have Romanesque double columns and round arches and date from the 12th century. The upper arcade openings with tracery are from the 14th century. The cloister is covered with Gothic ribbed vaults.
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The Jean Tinguely ice rink.
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A wonderful place to stay on the Saane.
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Idyllic Cistercian monastery in a loop of the Saane. Beautiful cloister. Self-service monastery shop and ice cream.
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Within sight of the Abbaye, in a hollow of the knee, is the Saane, this natural rock formation. Once upon a time, powerful underwater currents continuously eroded the rocks to the crag over eons of years. If you want to look up from the river bed to the edge of the cliff with its treetops, you have to tilt your head all the way back. The washed-out sandstone spirals into the sky in a breathtaking way and leaves the viewer standing there quite small and with their mouth open. The term "divine" takes on a new meaning here in the face of the abbey. A real natural highlight!!!
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The Abbaye d'Hauterive is an absolute must have. You feel transported back in time over several hundred years. The monastery grounds are a wonderful place to stay. Those who want to immerse themselves in nature around the Abbaye will be rewarded with a wildly romantic river scenery.
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The Jean Tinguely ice rink in Marly has been in operation since the winter of 1994. The Jean Tinguely ice rink bears the name in memory of the famous Friborg artist and painter. A small refreshment bar is available to spectators five meters from the track. Once a year, between Christmas and New Year, the international Jean Tinguely Memorial tournament is held on the ice rink, a tournament in which juniors from different countries compete.
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Hiking around Villarsel-sur-Marly offers a diverse landscape. You'll find many trails following the picturesque Gérine and Sarine rivers, featuring serene riverine scenery. The area is also known for unique natural rock formations, including breathtaking, spiraling sandstone cliffs eroded by the Saane (Sarine) river, and various canyons and natural monuments that add dramatic views to your hike.
There are over 440 hiking routes available around Villarsel-sur-Marly, catering to a wide range of preferences and fitness levels. This includes over 200 easy routes, more than 220 moderate trails, and 22 difficult options for experienced hikers.
Yes, Villarsel-sur-Marly offers over 200 easy hiking routes. These trails are generally less strenuous and perfect for a leisurely walk. Many follow the gentle contours of the rivers, providing accessible and enjoyable outdoor experiences.
The hiking trails in Villarsel-sur-Marly are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 900 reviews. Hikers often praise the beautiful riverine scenery, the unique rock formations, and the variety of accessible trails that cater to different abilities.
Yes, the region offers many trails suitable for families. The riverine areas, especially along the Gérine and Sarine, provide wide stone benches perfect for sunbathing, barbecuing, and splashing around in the summer, making them popular local recreation spots. Look for easier, shorter loops that follow the rivers for a pleasant family outing.
Absolutely. Many of the trails in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Marly Ice Rink – Trail Along the Gérine loop from Marly, which is 8.1 km, or the slightly shorter Marly Ice Rink – Trail Along the Gérine loop from Villarsel at 7.3 km.
The trails often feature the Gérine and Sarine rivers, offering picturesque views. A notable natural feature is the impressive sandstone rock formations near the Abbaye d'Hauterive, where the Saane river has carved breathtaking, spiraling cliffs. You can also explore various canyons, such as the Sarine Canyon, and the Gottéron Valley, which includes unique glacial mills.
Yes, the Beautiful wooden bridge – Abbaye d'Hauterive loop from Marly, a more challenging 21.6 km route, will lead you to the idyllic Cistercian monastery of Abbaye d'Hauterive. This significant attraction features beautiful cloisters and a self-service monastery shop, set amidst a wonderfully scenic river landscape.
Yes, there are several huts and buvettes in the vicinity. You might encounter places like Duvette Crau Rapp, Gross Schwyberg with alpine hut, or Buvette Alp Flühkäseberg. These can offer a welcome break during your hike.
The region is enjoyable for hiking throughout much of the year. However, summer is particularly popular, especially for trails along the rivers, as the wide stone benches invite sunbathing, barbecuing, and splashing around. Spring and autumn also offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery for exploration.
Yes, for those seeking a more demanding experience, Villarsel-sur-Marly offers 22 difficult routes. An example is the Beautiful wooden bridge – Abbaye d'Hauterive loop from Marly, which is a 21.6 km trail with significant elevation changes, providing a strenuous yet rewarding adventure.
While specific leash rules can vary, generally, dogs are welcome on many hiking trails in Switzerland. It's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash, especially in nature reserves, agricultural areas, or when encountering other hikers and wildlife, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.


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