Tour des Alpes Vaudoises, Stage 6/8

Setting off from Les Diablerets, the trail climbs past an impressive rock face with a waterfall to Col de la Croix. Then comes a geological highlight: the pyramids of gypsum are a natural wonder formed by the weathering of ancient limestone over thousands of years. There follows an idyllic lake and far-reaching views of the highest mountain in Europe, both equally enchanting.

From Les Diablerets railway station, the hike initially leads through the village and follows the Grande Eau for a short distance. The long ascent then begins: woodland and open pastures alternate at first, before the mountain trail becomes considerably steeper higher up. Shortly after L’Encrène, the highest point is reached at around 1,940 m.

The route now descends across open terrain and through sections of woodland to Lac des Chavonnes. The trail leads directly to the lakeshore, with the Restaurant Lac des Chavonnes situated on the route just beyond. Lac de Bretaye follows a little later, with the trail likewise passing close to its shore. The long descent begins at the Col de Bretaye.

The hiking trail gradually descends across open slopes, interspersed with sections of woodland. At the Col de Soud, the route passes the Auberge before the first houses of Villars-sur-Ollon come into view. The final section leads through the village to Villars-sur-Ollon railway station, where the hike of just over six hours ends after around 18 kilometres.