L'abbaye combines monastic history with activities at Lac de Joux. A lakeside path runs between L'abbaye and Le Pont, while the history of the former monastery dates back to the 12th century. There is also a grassy beach by the lake, water-based activities and regional produce. When planning your visit, you can therefore choose different focuses: time by the lake, historical discoveries or routes through the countryside.
Lakeside and water activities
Plage de L'Abbaye is a grassy beach on Lac de Joux. The site includes a playground, a table tennis table and a pétanque court, as well as equipped barbecue areas, tables and a small shelter. A floating jetty serves as a starting point for outings by rowboat, canoe or paddleboard. This means a lakeside visit can be combined with a range of activities on the water, rather than centring on just one activity.
L'abbaye also has a sailing club with a sailing school. Club d'aviron de la Vallée de Joux offers group introductions and coaching, and organises regattas. Les Archets de Joux, an archery activity, is another option in the municipality. If you prefer to get around on foot, you can plan a walk along the lakeshore between L'abbaye and Le Pont.
Monastery, church and history
The former Premonstratensian monastery was built between 1126 and 1134 and remained active until the Bernese arrived in 1536. Inside the church, you can see a model of the former monastery, made by Dr. Convert in the 1950s. The Tour de L'Abbaye du Lac de Joux dates from 1326 and serves as the bell tower of the present-day church. In 2026, it will be open to the public as part of guided tours from 1 April to 31 October; check the dates before your trip.
The buildings and paths also tell stories of different eras. Les Toblerones are anti-tank fortifications from the Second World War; some are still visible in L'abbaye. The Sentier didactique du chemin de Saint-Norbert uses nine stained-glass windows to depict traditional occupations and the development of the village and its economy over the centuries. The trail is accessible to everyone. The Hors Normes Festival has been held in the Vallée de Joux at Pentecost for more than ten years; its venues include the Grande salle de l'Abbaye. The programme and venues may change, so it is worth checking the dates before your trip.
Walks and the local natural environment
For a quieter route, try the three-kilometre landscaped Chemin de méditation, with its six meditative stations. The Chaudière de l’Enfer, described as the source of the Lionne, is also listed as a walking destination. These routes offer different experiences: the Chemin de méditation is defined by its stations, while the Chaudière de l’Enfer is a named destination that gives you a specific point to walk to.
L'abbaye is a municipality in Parc naturel régional Jura vaudois, a Swiss regional nature park of national importance since 2013. The park extends across the Vallée de Joux and other parts of the canton of Vaud. Its landscapes and protected natural areas stretch from the Pied du Jura to the Vallée de Joux, across mountain ridges and the La Givrine, Le Marchairuz and Le Mollendruz passes. Across the park as a whole, there are hiking options as well as cycling, mountain biking and e-bike routes. In winter, the park offers routes for walking, skiing and snowshoeing.
Winter activities and regional cuisine
The Téléskis du Lac de Joux in L'abbaye comprise four ski lifts, including one for beginners. Operating conditions may vary by season. Alongside lakeside trails and activities, winter sports are another option to consider.
Above the village, visitors can sample local or regional produce at the Les Croisettes alpine pasture. Options include typical mountain-hut dishes such as rösti, croûtes and fondue, as well as Malakoffs and various salads. The service is seasonal; check opening times before your trip, and note that the menu may change. La Gourmanstine's products include sweet and savoury bricelets, Linzer tarts, amaretti, sweet-and-sour zucchini and seasonal jams; the selection may vary.
Discover more destinations: Giez Vd, Vugelles-La Mothe, Mathod, L'auberson, Onnens, Villars-Burquin, Bonvillars, Le Lieu.
For the wider travel overview: Northern Vaud Jura.
