Les Diablerets Travel Guide

Explore the natural and cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and food and drink scene of Les Diablerets in Switzerland. Learn about the best things to do, where to stay, how to get there, and more with this comprehensive guide.


A Comprehensive Guide to Les Diablerets, Switzerland

Tucked away in the heart of Western Switzerland’s Vaud region, Les Diablerets awaits with its stunning mountain ranges, verdant hills, and charming alpine landscapes. Nature enthusiasts will be thrilled by the unspoilt beauty of this Swiss town which is a true paradise in every sense of the word. Whether you’re an adventure junkie or a lover of laidback vacations, Les Diablerets has something for everyone.

Introduction to Les Diablerets

Nestled at an altitude of 1,160 meters above sea level, Les Diablerets sits on a plateau beneath the towering Diablerets Glacier. The town has a population of just over a thousand, and its traditional Swiss chalets and scenic vistas draw visitors from far and wide. With plenty of activities and natural sites to explore, this town is ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

List of Places to Visit in Les Diablerets

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Les Diablerets is home to many museums and historical sites that offer a glimpse into the town’s rich past.

  1. Maison des Ormonts: a museum that showcases the history of the Ormonts Valley, with exhibits that span from geology to folklore
  2. La Pierreuse: a limestone quarry that dates back to the Roman era
  3. Château des Monts: a castle that has been carefully restored and now houses a restaurant and museum about the castle’s history

Natural Attractions of Les Diablerets: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The natural wonders of Les Diablerets are one of the main reasons why travelers flock to this Swiss town. With its mountainous terrain, forested trails, and crystal-clear waters, Les Diablerets has numerous opportunities for outdoor sports and nature excursions.

  1. Diablerets Glacier: a popular tourist attraction that offers skiing and snowboarding facilities in winter, as well as summer activities like hiking and mountain biking
  2. Peak Walk: a suspension bridge that spans between two peaks and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains
  3. Lac Retaud: a serene alpine lake that is perfect for picnics, swimming, and fishing
  4. Les Mosses: a ski resort that offers winter and summer activities like cross-country skiing, hiking, and mountain biking

Hiking/Biking Routes of Les Diablerets

If you love to hike or bike, then Les Diablerets offers numerous routes to explore. From easy, family-friendly treks to challenging alpine hikes, there’s something for everyone.

  1. Col de la Croix: a moderate hike that takes you through breathtaking landscapes and features a mountain lake and panoramic views of the surrounding Alps
  2. Sentier des Ormonts: a three-day hiking trail that begins at Les Diablerets and takes you across the Ormonts region
  3. Pierreuse-Theusseret Trail: an easy and family-friendly hike that offers stunning views of the Swiss valleys and mountains

Best Things to Do in Les Diablerets: Activities and Tours

Les Diablerets offers numerous activities and tours that cater to all ages and interests. From adrenaline-pumping activities to laidback cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone.

  1. Glacier 3000: a tourist attraction that offers panoramic views of the Swiss Alps from the Peak Walk bridge, dog sledding, snowmobiling, and sledding in winter, as well as rollercoaster, zip-lining, and mountain biking in summer
  2. Cheese-Making Tours: Switzerland is famous for its cheese, and this tour takes you through the process of making traditional Swiss cheese
  3. Parc des Diables: an adventure park that offers numerous outdoor activities like tree-top trekking, bungee jumping, and zip-lining

Week-Long Itinerary for Les Diablerets

For those who want to explore Les Diablerets in-depth, here’s a week-long itinerary that covers the best the town has to offer:

Day Activities
Day 1 Arrival, check-in, relaxing walk through the village
Day 2 Skiing at Diablerets Glacier or Les Mosses
Day 3 Hiking in Col de la Croix
Day 4 Cheesemaking tour and picnic at Lac Retaud
Day 5 Cultural exploration at the Maison des Ormonts and Château des Monts
Day 6 Adrenaline-pumping activities at Parc des Diables
Day 7 Departure from Les Diablerets

Food and Drink Scene of Les Diablerets

Les Diablerets offers an exquisite blend of traditional Swiss cuisine and international dishes. Cheese fondue, raclette, and smoked meats are some of the most popular dishes.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Fondue: a traditional Swiss dish made of melted cheese, mixed with white wine and garlic, served with bread or boiled potatoes
  2. Raclette: a dish that features melted cheese served with boiled potatoes, pickles, and ham
  3. Saucisson: a smoked sausage that is perfect for a picnic or hiking snack

Local Beverages

Les Diablerets is renowned for its white wine and other alcoholic beverages, including:

  1. Chasselas: a light white wine that pairs well with seafood and cheese
  2. Absinthe: a famous Swiss liquor that uses wormwood extract as a key ingredient, creating a unique and flavorful aroma

Where to Stay in Les Diablerets: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Les Diablerets offers numerous accommodation options that cater to all budgets and preferences, ranging from luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses. Some top options include:

  1. Eurotel Victoria: a four-star hotel that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and features a spa and a restaurant serving traditional Swiss cuisine.
  2. Auberge de la Poste: a traditional guesthouse that offers cozy rooms and friendly service at a reasonable price.

What to Buy in Les Diablerets: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in Les Diablerets, be sure to bring home unique souvenirs that represent the region’s tradition, culture, and way of life. Here are some top souvenirs to consider:

  1. Swiss Chocolate: Switzerland is famous for its chocolate, and Les Diablerets features numerous artisan chocolatiers that offer exquisite and delicious varieties
  2. Cowbell: typical Swiss bells used for decoration or hung on a cow’s neck, making a beautiful gift to bring home
  3. Swiss Army Knife: a useful and well-known Swiss invention that comes in handy in everyday life and makes a unique and practical souvenir

Local Culture and Customs of Les Diablerets

Les Diablerets is known for its traditional Swiss culture and customs, including the strong presence of folklore and local traditions year-round.

Best Time to Visit Les Diablerets

The best time to visit Les Diablerets is from late June to early September when the weather is mild, and the natural landscape is at its peak. Winter, from December to February, is perfect for skiing and other snow sports.

Do’s and Don’ts of Les Diablerets

Do:

  1. Respect local customs and traditions.
  2. Take care of the natural environment.
  3. Try traditional Swiss dishes and drinks.

Don’t:

  1. Litter or damage the natural landscape.
  2. Ignore local customs and traditions.
  3. Be too loud or disruptive.

Safety and Health

Safety in Les Diablerets

Les Diablerets is a safe and secure place to visit. However, visitors should still take measures to protect themselves and their belongings, including locking their doors and windows and avoiding isolated areas at night.

Health in Les Diablerets

Les Diablerets has several hospitals and medical facilities if needed. Visitors should always carry appropriate medical insurance.

Getting to Les Diablerets: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Les Diablerets

The nearest airport to Les Diablerets is Geneva International Airport, which is around 98 km away. From the airport, visitors can take a bus, train, or car to Les Diablerets.

Bus Stations Near Les Diablerets

Les Diablerets has a bus station that is well-connected to nearby cities, towns, and ski resorts.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Les Diablerets by car, train, or bicycle.

How to Get Around in Les Diablerets

Les Diablerets is well-connected by public transport, including buses and trains. Taxis are also available for hire.

Where to Go Next from Les Diablerets: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Les Diablerets is located centrally, and there are several other beautiful Swiss towns and sites to visit in the surrounding region, including:

  1. Gstaad: a ski resort with plenty of luxury shops and restaurants, located just a short drive away from Les Diablerets.
  2. Montreux: a beautiful town situated on the shores of Lake Geneva, known for its magnificent architecture and warm climate.

Conclusion

Les Diablerets is a Swiss gem that offers stunning landscapes, pristine natural environments, and traditional Swiss culture and cuisine. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or a lover of laidback vacations, there’s something for everyone in Les Diablerets. So pack your bags, hit the road/travel, and enjoy your adventure-filled vacation in this beautiful Swiss town.