Villars-sur-Ollon Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and where to stay in Villars-sur-Ollon, Switzerland. Our guide covers the hiking and biking routes, must-try dishes, transportation options, and more.


Introduction to Villars-sur-Ollon

Villars-sur-Ollon is a charming mountain resort located in the Vaud region of Switzerland. It is surrounded by the stunning Swiss Alps and offers a perfect combination of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. It is a popular destination among skiers during the winter months and hikers in the summer season. With its picturesque village center, Villars-sur-Ollon is perfect for those looking to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

List of Places to Visit in Villars-sur-Ollon

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Villars-Gryon Museum

Visit Villars-Gryon Museum to learn about the history of the region and the traditional way of life of the people in Villars-sur-Ollon. The museum showcases artifacts from the Roman era, natural history exhibits, and cultural artifacts from local artisans.

Chillon Castle

Chillon Castle, one of the most visited castles in Switzerland, is only a short drive away from Villars-sur-Ollon. It is a historical monument that dates back to the 12th century and offers breathtaking views of Lake Geneva.

Natural Attractions of Villars-sur-Ollon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Glacier 3000

For panoramic views of the Swiss Alps, take a trip to Glacier 3000. This mountaintop attraction is accessible via cable car and offers activities like skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and husky dog sledding.

Les Diablerets

Les Diablerets is a mountain village near Villars-sur-Ollon that is popular for skiing and mountain biking in the summer season. The village is surrounded by breathtaking alpine scenery and is home to several hiking trails for all skill levels.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Villars-sur-Ollon

Lac de Chavonnes Trail

The Lac de Chavonnes Trail is a moderate-level hiking trail that offers stunning views of the Rhone River Valley and the Swiss Alps. The hike takes around 3-4 hours to complete and is accessible from Villars-sur-Ollon.

Grand Muveran Trail

For experienced hikers, the Grand Muveran Trail is a challenging hike that will take you through some of the most beautiful alpine scenery in Switzerland. The hike takes around 10-12 hours to complete and offers spectacular views throughout.

Best Things to Do in Villars-sur-Ollon: Activities and Tours

Skiing and Snowboarding

During the winter season, Villars-sur-Ollon is a paradise for skiers and snowboarders. The resort offers a variety of slopes for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced skiers.

Wine Tasting

Villars-sur-Ollon is located in the heart of the Swiss wine region, and there are several vineyards and wineries in the area that offer wine tastings and tours.

Week-Long Itinerary for Villars-sur-Ollon

Day Activity
1 Visit Villars-Gryon Museum
2 Skiing or snowboarding at Villars-sur-Ollon
3 Hike the Lac de Chavonnes Trail
4 Take a day trip to Chillon Castle
5 Visit Glacier 3000 and go skiing, snowboarding, or hiking
6 Explore the Les Diablerets mountain village
7 Wine tasting at one of the local vineyards

Food and Drink Scene of Villars-sur-Ollon

Must-Try Dishes

Raclette

Raclette is a Swiss dish made from melted cheese that is served with potatoes, pickles, and onions. It is a popular dish in Villars-sur-Ollon and can be found in most local restaurants.

Fondue

Fondue is another classic Swiss dish made from melted cheese and served with bread. It is perfect for a cozy evening after a day of hiking or skiing.

Local Beverages

Swiss Wine

The Vaud region is known for its excellent wine, and Villars-sur-Ollon is home to several vineyards that produce high-quality Swiss wine.

Swiss Chocolate

Swiss chocolate is world-famous for its rich flavor and smooth texture. Villars-sur-Ollon is home to several chocolate shops that offer a delicious variety of Swiss chocolates and confections.

Where to Stay in Villars-sur-Ollon: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Eurotel Victoria

Eurotel Victoria is a 4-star hotel located in the heart of Villars-sur-Ollon, offering stunning views of the Swiss Alps. The hotel features luxurious amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and gourmet restaurant.

Hotel Les Mazots

Hotel Les Mazots is a charming guesthouse located in the center of Villars-sur-Ollon. The guesthouse features comfortable rooms, a cozy lounge, and a lovely garden.

What to Buy in Villars-sur-Ollon: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Swiss Cheese

Swiss cheese, especially the famous Gruyere, is a must-buy souvenir when visiting Villars-sur-Ollon. You can find cheese shops selling a variety of Swiss cheeses in the village center.

Swiss Watches

Switzerland is known for its high-quality watches, and Villars-sur-Ollon is home to several luxury watch shops. You can find a variety of Swiss watches in different styles and price ranges.

Local Culture and Customs of Villars-sur-Ollon

Villars-sur-Ollon is a quiet, picturesque village that prides itself on its traditions and customs. The village celebrates several festivals throughout the year, including the Swiss National Day on August 1st and the Villars Vintage car rally in July.

Best Time to Visit Villars-sur-Ollon

The best time to visit Villars-sur-Ollon depends on your travel preference. If you enjoy skiing and snowboarding, the winter season from December to March is the best time to visit. If you prefer hiking and outdoor adventures, the summer season from June to September is the perfect time to visit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Villars-sur-Ollon

Do:

  • Try the local Swiss cheese and chocolates.
  • Be respectful of the local customs and traditions.
  • Take advantage of the outdoor adventures and activities offered in Villars-sur-Ollon.

Don’t:

  • Speak too loudly in public places, as it is considered impolite in Swiss culture.
  • Violate the natural environment by littering or damaging the local flora and fauna.
  • Ignore the dress code when visiting religious sites in the area.

Safety and Health

Safety in Villars-sur-Ollon

Villars-sur-Ollon is a very safe destination. However, it is still important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Always keep your belongings safe and secure, especially in crowded areas.

Health in Villars-sur-Ollon

Switzerland has a high standard of healthcare, and Villars-sur-Ollon has several medical facilities in case of an emergency. Comprehensive travel insurance is always recommended.

Getting to Villars-sur-Ollon: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Villars-sur-Ollon

The closest airport to Villars-sur-Ollon is Geneva Airport, located about 120 km away. You can take a train or bus from the airport to Villars-sur-Ollon.

Bus Stations Near Villars-sur-Ollon

Villars-sur-Ollon is well-connected by bus to other destinations in the region, including Geneva, Lausanne, and Montreux. The local bus company, TPC, offers regular bus services to and from Villars-sur-Ollon.

Other Options

You can also reach Villars-sur-Ollon by car or train. The nearest train station is Aigle, located about 15 km away. From Aigle, you can take a local bus or taxi to Villars-sur-Ollon.

How to Get Around in Villars-sur-Ollon

The best way to get around Villars-sur-Ollon is by walking or cycling. The village is small and compact, making it easy to explore on foot. There are several bike rental shops in the area if you prefer to cycle.

Where to Go Next from Villars-sur-Ollon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Montreux

Montreux is a beautiful lakeside city located about a 45-minute drive from Villars-sur-Ollon. It is famous for its jazz festival, stunning vineyards, and charming promenade along Lake Geneva.

Gstaad

Gstaad is a picturesque mountain village located about a 90-minute drive from Villars-sur-Ollon. It is a popular destination among hikers and skiing enthusiasts and is known for its world-class ski resorts and luxury shopping.

Conclusion

Villars-sur-Ollon is a hidden gem in the Swiss Alps. Whether you are looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or just a relaxing holiday, Villars-sur-Ollon has something for everyone. With its stunning alpine scenery, delicious Swiss cuisine, and welcoming locals, a visit to this charming mountain village is sure to be a memorable one.