Alpes Vaudoises
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Villars. More Than Gravel. Alpine Gravel.

Discover an Alpine playground

Villars. More Than Gravel. Alpine Gravel.
© A Swiss With A Pulse - Alain Rumpf

Climb alpine roads, take in breathtaking panoramas and stop off at a traditional mountain restaurant: from the valley floor to the peaks, five routes totalling more than 300 km allow you to ride for a day or embark on multi-day adventures in the heart of the Alpes Vaudoises.

Villars is a lively destination designed for gravel riding: advice from local riders, suitable accommodation, and all the essential services you need to ride freely, stop at the right moment and fully enjoy the region.

Villars is more than just gravel, it is a true Alpine gravel destination. Proof of this: Villars will host the UCI Gravel World Championships on 6 and 7 October 2029, an international recognition of an exceptional playground… ready to be discovered today.

More than gravel. A destination to discover.

Routes through valleys, mountain passes and alpine pastures

Five routes covering more than 300 km, from the Chablais plain to the summits of the Alpes Vaudoises.

Starting from Villars, these day loops were designed by passionate local riders to offer a full immersion into the world of Alpine gravel riding. Each route combines forest roads, scenic tracks and iconic sections, with different levels of difficulty to suit all abilities.

More than routes. Places to experience.

Among the highlights, don’t miss the gravel version of the legendary Col de la Croix, a spectacular climb rewarded with breathtaking views.

Along the way, you will pass through iconic locations such as Lake Chavonnes, Solalex and Taveyanne, perfect spots for a gourmet break in an authentic alpine setting.

5 alpine gravel routes passing through Villars

Top 5 gravel routes in the Alpes Vaudoises

Top 5 gravel routes in the Alpes Vaudoises

Top 5 Gravel Rides in the Alpes Vaudoises


  • Routes carefully selected by a local cyclist
  • GPX files for each route
  • Practical tips and recommended spots to make the most of your rides

More than gravel. An alpine playground.

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Varied terrain

Smooth forest tracks, steady climbs ideal for endurance, and flowing, fun descents. You’ll never get bored!

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Spectacular landscapes

Mont Blanc, the Dents du Midi, the Grand Muveran, and lush alpine pastures. Every turn of the pedals brings breathtaking views.

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Flexible routes

Sporty rides, scenic routes, or multi-day adventures. There’s something for everyone.

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Gravel-friendly infrastructure

Bike hotels, workshops, guides, and public transport. Everything is designed to make your experience comfortable, whether guided or self-guided.

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Authentic Alpine Experience

The gravel spirit is also about discovery. From must-see sites to Alpine traditions, there is always more to explore.

More than gravel. An adventure to experience over several days.

More than gravel. An adventure to experience over several days.

Gravel is also a way of travelling.

Starting from Villars, a 3-day gravel packing route crosses the Alpes Vaudoises through mountain passes, alpine villages, pastures and panoramic viewpoints.

Stay in mountain huts or hotels, travel light, take your time, stop more often.

A micro-adventure in the Alps, blending effort, freedom and immersion.

Tailor-made gravel: guided tours, workshops and a premium experience

Scott and Villars: partners for discovering gravel riding

Scott and Villars: partners for discovering gravel riding

In Villars, you can rent gravel bikes (both regular and electric) at Sport's House.

Combine the expertise and passion of the Sport's House team with the performance and comfort of Scott bikes, and set off to explore the gravel routes starting from Villars.

More than gravel. A destination made for cyclists.

Bike-friendly accommodation, rentals and on-site services

In Villars and nearby, the gravel experience is also about the quality of your stay. Several establishments offer a bike-friendly atmosphere and services tailored to cyclists’ needs: secure storage, expert advice, comfort, and recovery facilities.

Recommended accommodations for a gravel stay

Sports shops in Villars

Whether you are visiting for a weekend or a full week, Villars makes it easy to plan a cycling stay that combines sport, comfort, and nature.

The Majestics

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The Majestics

From July 10 to 12, The Majestics brings together three road and gravel cycling races in Villars.

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Tour de Suisse

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Tour de Suisse

This year, the Women’s and Men’s Tour de Suisse will arrive in Villars on Sunday, June 21.

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Strava Challenge

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Strava Challenge

From June 1 to September 30, take on the Strava Challenge of the Alpes Vaudoises. Four gravel routes and four road routes are on the program. Great prizes await the winners!

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Villars and the 2029 UCI Gravel World Championships: ambition at the highest level

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Villars and the 2029 UCI Gravel World Championships: ambition at the highest level

Goal 2029: Villars has been selected to host the 2029 UCI Gravel World Championships.

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The best way to truly understand a destination is to experience it by bike.

EErnest Hemingway

More than gravel. A mountain getaway.

Gravel in Villars – Frequently Asked Questions

Villars