At the eastern end of Lake Geneva, at the foot of the Vaud Pre-Alps and where the Rhône Valley begins, lies Villeneuve. Its historic Bourg, vineyards, trails through Les Grangettes and lakeside activities offer different ways to spend your stay. You can tailor your visit to the time available, from a stroll through the town centre to longer routes in the surrounding area.

Landscape and townscape

Villeneuve is a Swiss municipality in the canton of Vaud, in the district of Aigle. Mont d’Arvel and Malatraix rise above the town to the southeast, while Rochers de Naye lies to the northeast. Its summit, at 2,042 metres, is the municipality’s highest point. This places Villeneuve between the lake, the Rhône Valley and the Pre-Alps, without implying any particular hiking route.

The Bourg and local history

The historic Bourg, the “Ville neuve de Chillon”, has a cobbled main street, beautiful houses and numerous shops, and is ideal for a leisurely stroll. A walking tour takes 2 hours and 15 minutes and traces the history of a town founded more than 800 years ago. Individual buildings also tell the story of the town: the Church of Saint-Paul on Grand-Rue displays the coats of arms of the House of Savoy. It replaced the Church of Compengie, first mentioned in 1166. The Hôtel de Ville on Place de la Gare is housed in the former Notre-Dame hospital.

From the Quais de Villeneuve, you can see Île de Peilz, described as Lake Geneva’s only natural island. The promenade features sculptures from the Montreux-Villeneuve Biennale and is a pleasant place for a walk at any time of year. The sculptures may change between Biennale editions.

Trails through vineyards and nature

Three marked routes starting in Villeneuve explore the Les Grangettes area. They take about 30 minutes, an hour and a half or four hours—a significant difference when planning your time. Trail conditions may change, so check them before setting out. The Les Grangettes nature reserve can be explored on foot or by bicycle, subject to local restrictions in protected habitats.

The Sentier des vignes runs from Villeneuve to Saint-Maurice through the Chablais vineyards and via Yvorne, Aigle, Ollon and Bex. The Villeneuve loop is 5 kilometres long and takes about 1 hour and 35 minutes. Along the trail, 19 information panels explain the history of winemaking and introduce the winegrowers along the route. Another option is the “Balade au royaume des Châtaigniers” hike: it leads through vineyards and forest to the chestnut groves of Chenaux and Montolivet; trail conditions may vary.

Wine and regional traditions

The Viticole Villeneuve produces just under ten red, white and rosé wines; its selection may change. It welcomes visitors from Monday to Saturday. Tastings outside opening hours and tastings for groups are available by reservation. From the terrace of Domaine Bertholet in central Villeneuve, among the vineyards, you can enjoy views of Lake Geneva and the mountains. Wine tastings and public and private events are held there; event dates may change.

Experience a seasonal tradition on the communal alpine pastures above Villeneuve: in summer, you can watch traditional alpine cheese being made. Demonstrations and opportunities to observe the process may vary.

Activities on Lake Geneva

A stand-up paddleboarding route from Villeneuve heads towards Château de Chillon. Because of boat traffic, it is reserved for experienced paddlers or those accompanied by a guide. Another stand-up paddleboarding route from Villeneuve passes Île de Peilz and the Les Grangettes nature reserve, where about 250 bird species nest. Respect habitat protection rules and check water conditions and the provider’s guidance before setting off.

Nautic Loisirs, near the railway station, rents stand-up paddleboards, pedal boats, boats and kayaks, and offers courses for all levels; seasonal operations may vary. Piscine Les Marines has heated pools, diving boards, sunbathing lawns and direct access to Lake Geneva. Seasonal opening hours may also vary here, so it is advisable to check the latest schedule before visiting.

Getting there and finding your way

Villeneuve railway station is on the Simplon line and connected to the Vaud regional express network. Check the timetable for your travel date. Near the station, the Villeneuve Tourist Information office is located in the former Gothic chapel of the Notre-Dame hospital, built in 1236. There you can get suggestions for sightseeing and walking tours.

Discover more destinations: Corbeyrier, Yvorne, Leysin, Gryon, Barboleusaz, Villars-Sur-Ollon, Les Mosses, Bex.

For the main travel overview: Aigle.