Hotels in Villars-Sur-Ollon

Villars-Sur-Ollon is a winter and summer resort in the municipality of Ollon in the canton of Vaud. It is located in the Vaud Alps, at an altitude of around 1,300 metres and about 900 metres above the Rhône Valley, in the Chablais region. Its alpine landscape provides a setting for a wide range of travel plans: in winter, snow sports and snow-covered trails take centre stage, while in summer, visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking and other outdoor pursuits.

Lakeside trails and themed paths

The natural Lac des Chavonnes lies at an altitude of 1,690 metres, surrounded by nature. An easy, family-friendly route there combines the cog railway from Villars to Bretaye with a subsequent walk of around 30 minutes. In winter, the lake’s shores can be reached on snowshoes or skis. The routes to the same destination therefore vary according to the season and mode of travel; check the current timetable if you plan to take the train.

Another way to explore the landscape is the Path to the History of the Earth themed trail. It runs for 4.6 kilometres between Bretaye and Villars and explains the history and development of our planet at nine stations. Explanations are available in English and French and are illustrated with iron sculptures. The trail thus combines physical activity with an educational focus: it not only links two places, but also offers insights into the history of the Earth along the way.

Winter in the mountains

In winter, Villars-Sur-Ollon provides access to an extensive ski area with 420 kilometres of ski slopes. If you would rather go snowshoeing than ski, the Circuit des lacs offers a five-kilometre route starting from Bretaye. It begins at Col de Bretaye, which can be reached by the Villars–Bretaye mountain railway, and leads through quiet winter landscapes featuring glacial lakes, mountains and scenery lined with fir forests. Before setting out, check the winter conditions and confirm that the railway is operating.

The shores of Lac des Chavonnes can also be reached on snowshoes or skis in winter. This offers a different way to experience the mountain landscape from the marked snowshoe trail starting in Bretaye: here, the lake is the destination, whereas the Circuit des lacs is described as a circuit through the winter landscape.

Wellness, ice skating and leisure in the resort

Les Bains de Villars brings together a range of bathing and wellness facilities. Two hammams have temperatures of 45 and 50°C respectively, and there are also two saunas at 90°C. The outdoor pool is heated to 33–36°C and has massage jets. The bathing area also includes a 25-metre swimming pool with five lanes. The different pools and temperatures give you specific points to consider if wellness is an important part of your stay.

The Patinoire de Villars at the Centre des Sports offers ice skating from July to April; equipment can be rented on site. In winter, regular activities such as curling and disco evenings take place there, though the programme may vary by season. Check dates and seasonal availability before visiting. Also in the heart of the Villars resort, near the Centre des Sports des Tennis, is Villars Fun Park, an outdoor play area for families. It offers outdoor leisure activities throughout the year.

Summer activities and getting there

For golf enthusiasts, the Golf Club de Villars is a special feature: it is the only 18-hole mountain golf course in the Vaud Alps. Summer visitor activities around Villars-Sur-Ollon also include canyoning trips through deep gorges. Longer hikes with panoramic views are another great fit for the alpine surroundings. These options offer different experiences, from time on the golf course to gorge excursions and longer hikes.

The Bex-Villars-Bretaye railway (BVB) R74 runs from Bex via Gryon to Villars in about 45 minutes. In Villars, passengers can transfer to another train to Bretaye. If your plans depend on taking the train or on a particular seasonal activity, plan your travel dates accordingly and check the relevant timetables or dates.

Discover more destinations: Lavey-Les-Bains, Villeneuve Vd, Barboleusaz, Les Mosses, Chessel, Aigle, Gryon, Ollon Vd.

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