Les Mosses offers a clear seasonal contrast: in winter, alpine and Nordic skiing take centre stage; during the summer production season, you can watch cheese being made at the Fromagerie du Lioson d’en Bas. The hiking route to Lac Lioson adds a specific nature experience to the mix. When planning, it is worth first bringing your travel dates and personal interests together.
Les Mosses at the pass
Les Mosses is a locality in the municipality of Ormont-Dessous in the canton of Vaud, in the Aigle district. At around 1,436 metres, it lies at the Col des Mosses pass in the Vaud Pre-Alps. Since 2012, the municipality of Ormont-Dessous has been part of the Gruyère Pays-d’Enhaut Regional Nature Park.
Downhill skiing, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing
The Les Mosses–La Lécherette ski area is connected to Leysin and has more than 100 kilometres of pistes. Its features include wide pistes and a snowpark. There is also a large snow park for beginners, with games, small jumps, a conveyor belt, an Arrache-mitaine and a beginner platter lift.
The Espace Nordique des Alpes Vaudoises has 42 kilometres of Nordic ski trails for classic and skating styles. In addition, 50 kilometres of snowshoe trails are regularly prepared there. When comparing the figures, the discipline matters: the 42 kilometres are for Nordic skiing, while the 50 kilometres are for snowshoeing. Snow conditions, trail preparation and individual facilities are subject to seasonal conditions. In winter, biathlon is practised at Col des Mosses, combining shooting with travelling on cross-country skis or on foot.
Hike to Lac Lioson
The Les Mosses–Lac Lioson hiking route starts at Col des Mosses and leads to the lake. It then passes Les Petits Lacs and descends again along a small watercourse. Lac Lioson lies above Les Mosses in protected natural surroundings and has emerald-coloured water. Its shores are suitable for a picnic after the hike.
The lake is regularly stocked with fish; it is home to Arctic char and rainbow trout. Fishing conditions and permits may vary.
Cheesemaking and practical facilities
During the summer production season, you can follow the entire cheesemaking process at the Fromagerie du Lioson d’en Bas. Around a milk vat heated over a wood fire, the demonstration covers everything from curdling the milk to moulding the cheese wheels. It also includes an introduction to the craft production of alpine cheese, followed by a tasting. Visits are available seasonally or by request.
The Maison de l’Espace Nordique is open to everyone; access may vary depending on the season. Facilities include a waxing station, changing rooms with lockers, showers, toilets and a reception area.
Plan your journey and accommodation
From Aigle railway station, take the ASD train (Aigle–Sépey–Diablerets) to Le Sépey, then bus B175 towards Château-d’Oex to reach Col des Mosses. Check the timetable before travelling.
Discover other destinations: Roche Vd, Corbeyrier, Ormont-Dessus, Barboleusaz, Leysin, Chessel, Bex, Lavey-Les-Bains.
For the wider travel overview: Aigle.
