As I mentioned, recently I spent a week in the village of Les Diablerets, tucked away in the Swiss Alps at 1160m. There was no time for skiing unfortunately as it was a work trip, but in the evenings I went for a few walks in the woods, and on the last afternoon I went up to the glacier with some friends. When I arrived the forests were quite green, the paths were icy, and the snow levels in the village were not as high as the previous years – it was a snow-poor winter all round in Europe this year. However on about day two or three it started snowing…and snowing…and snowing…the mountain disappeared in mist, and soon the forest and village were transformed into a winter wonderland. Following that was another day of snow, and then the sun came out and we were able to experience the village and the mountains with sunshine and deep blue skies, perfect for a visit to the glacier at 3000m. It was great to experience the area in all types of weather. Without further ado, here are some photos from my visit.
First glimpse of the mountains on the train from Lausanne to Aigle.
The scenery was green at first on the mountain train from Aigle to Les Diablerets. In the valley are many vineyards and wine tours are popular in summer.
The wooden chalets of Les Diablerets, a village and ski resort.
A conference venue tucked in the mountains. Last time the snow was 1m high, this year when we arrived there was not so much.
So close to the ski slopes, but no time to ski. We’ll have to go back for a holiday.
Off for an icy walk at the end of the day.
Hotels in the mountains.
A river rushes through the town.
Green woods and icy path – a few days later it would look completely different.
Many wooden chalets
There are many options for outdoor activities in the area: hiking trails, snow shoe walking, cross-country skiing (when there is snow)…
Little houses in the woods
A river runs through it
In the woods
Some little waterfalls
And back to the village
Before it gets dark
Another walk the next day
Then it starts snowing, the mountains disappear in the mist.
And snowing…
And snowing
Time for a walk in the snow
The forest looks different now…
The path by the river is no longer icy…
Everything is newly coated
Including the houses
So much snow
Everything is beautiful
The next day the sun comes out
With all the snow, the dogsled races can start
Young dogs are brought along to see how it works, although they do not run yet
The park looks interesting in winter
Another walk in the woods
I’d love to spend some time in a house in the woods
Amazing how the roof can take the weight of all that snow.
It’s quiet around, but some people are practising with their dogs in the snowy fields nearby.
The last day dawns with sunny skies
I’ll miss these snowy forests
And the river…
And the mountains
After the last seminars we head into town to catch the bus to the cable car
Off to Glacier 3000!
Here is the glacier
We are surrounded by snowy mountains
The bridge on top is a little scary, but the views are worth it
From here you can see Mont Blanc, and also the Matterhorn. It’s 360 degree mountain views.
Back across the bridge
To get down to the glacier you have to go on the ski chair lift
On top you can ski
The snow is deep
Trails in the snow
Back up on the chair lift
Time to take the two cable cars back down. First to the one peak…
Can you see the skiers, skiing off piste?
It’s a long way back down…
Very long…
Getting closer…
Almost back, you can see the road back to Les Diablerets.
Waiting for the ski bus
Back to Les Diablerets, and almost time to leave
At the train station. Goodbye, Les Diablerets.
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