Nestled in the Lake Geneva Region, the Parc Jura Vaudois enchants hikers, bikers, and outdoor adventurers of every stripe. This stunning regional park features 523 kilometers (324.97 miles) of winding trails that cut through thickly wooded emerald green pastures and occasional stonewalls. Extending from the Col de la Givrine, to the Col du Molledruz, hikers in the park will encounter mesmerizing landscapes that range from the shimmer of Lake Geneva, to the pristine alpine beauty of the Alps.
Deep in the recesses of the Sauvabelin forest lies a modern, wood-built tower which affords a breathtaking view of the rolling Jura Mountains and glistening Lake Léman. Measuring 35 meters (115 feet), the distinctive tower takes its name from the surrounding forest. Although it serves a spectacular purpose, the structure itself is eye-catching, and its spiral staircase was inspired by the helical architecture found at the Chateau de Chambord in France. Fashioned out of Douglas firs sourced from local forests, this tower and its supporting institutions are greatly inclined towards sustainable development and environmental consciousness, and strive to radiate the same principles to visitors.
Les Pléiades, marks the beginning of the foothills and overlooks Lake Geneva and the towns and villages of the Swiss Riviera. It can be easily accessed via a cog train. Once at the upper station, the AstroPléiades tour is one that should not be missed for the world! Providing deep insights about the entire solar system, the tour starts by taking the Earth as a starting point and then moving on to exploring different phenomena occurring in space for millions of light-years apart. After a complete observation of the solar system, the visitor is transported to different fixed stars in distant galaxies. To add to the beauty of the peak, fields of blooming daffodils adorn the landscapes and are an absolute delight for walkers, hikers and avid photographers.
Located on the outskirts of Mollens, the Mont Tendre mountain is a popular hiking spot among tourists for its easy trails. With a height of 1679 meters (5509 feet), the mountain summit provides stunning views of the Swiss countryside.
Sauvabelin Forest is a suburban park where Lausanne locals have come for Sunday strolls and afternoon walks in a soothing natural setting for more than a century. Walks lead past the River Flon, the picturesque Bois de Sauvabelin, and the ruins of a former Swiss village. The true highlights of the forest are the Lac du Sauvabelin, an artificial lake built in the late 19th century, and the Sauvebelin Tower, an interesting wooden structure nine stories tall with beautiful views of the surrounding region. Visitors often take picnics on landscaped grounds, row boats on the lake in the warmer months, and take children to see Swiss-native farm animals. Legend has it that the late and great David Bowie owned a home on the forest grounds.
Overlooking the beautiful settlement of Montreux, the Dent de Jaman is an interesting climb. It can be accessed from the Col de Jaman and the various well-marked trails leading to the summit are absolutely stunning, with herds of sheep, lush Alpine trees and serene mountain lakes making an entry along the way. However, this mountain also poses various risks in the form of loose rocks, marshy terrain and steep ridges. Mostly popular with experienced climbers, it is advised that proper caution is taken before ascending this enchanting yet challenging mountain.
Located a few miles away from Broc, the mountain of Dent de Broc in the Swiss Prealps is a popular destination among tourists for hiking and skiing. The summit lies at a height of 1,829 meters (6,001 feet) and provides breath taking views of the Swiss countryside.
Le Chasseron is an alpine mountain and is a part of the Jura mountain range. One can get a good view of the town of Sainte-Croix once at the top. The mountain stands at a height of 1607 meters/5272 feet above sea level. It is said to have been listed as one of the most isolated mountains in the country.
Lac de Darbon lies at a height of 1813 meters (5948 feet) in the mountains of the French Chablais. To its north is the Dent d’Oche and to the south, a picturesque view of the Cornettes de Bise. Visitors can hike up to the lake from Chalets de Bise, a gentle circuit of around six hours. The glacial lake covers a surface area of 2 hectares (5 acres) and has a maximum depth of 8.2 meters (27 feet). The hills are home to mountain goats and sturdy cows.
Mont d'Or is one of the highest peaks of the Jura mountain range situated at an altitude of 4800 feet (1463 meters) above sea level. Being one of the highest peaks in the region, it is also one of the most popular mountaineering destinations, testing the skills and temperaments of elite mountaineers. Apart from being an adventure junkie's favorite, it is also known for its skiing ranges and limestone quarries.
Overlooking Lake of Joux is Dent de Vaulion, a mountain peak, in the canton of Vaud. It is known for its ski resorts and hiking ventures. Hiking starts from Lake Joux up to the peak of Dent de Vaulion. It takes about 3 hours with the La Petit Dent restaurant on the way. The Chalet de la Dent de Vaulion at the top serves fondue cheese, dried meat and cream desserts with meringue. An orientation map is provided to the hikers which enable them to identify the lakes and mountains as they go by.
Le Suchet is a rugged mountain belonging to the Jura mountain range, and is the pride of the Swiss municipality of Rances. It has a height of 1,588 meters (5,210 feet), and has several trails. This place is ideal for hiking and biking. It summit provides panoramic views of the nearby mountains and the valley stretching endlessly, burgeoning with greenery and animal life. Do give this place a visit if you happen to be in the canton of Vaud.