The ViaFrancigena is one of the most important pilgrimage routes in Europe. This long-distance hiking trail leads along an old Roman trade route documented by Archbishop Sigerich. Switzerland presents itself along this pilgrimage route as idyllic and diverse.
From Ste-Croix you hike down to Lake Neuchâtel with wonderful views. The route continues idyllically along the banks of the river Venoge until you reach the shores of Lake Geneva. On one side the vineyards of Lavaux, on the other the snowy peaks of the Alps and before you the vineyards of Chablais. Who says that pilgrimage cannot be a pleasure?
From the high Jura plateau of Sainte-Croix, the trail descends steeply on the historic salt road to the Jura plain. It runs through fields, forests and wine-growing regions on flat terrain, passing authentic villages and medieval churches to reach the day’s destination in Orbe.
After Orbe, the ViaFrancigena reaches the medieval town of Romainmôtier with its Clunysian abbey. Finally, one reaches the middle of the world, where part of the river Nozon flows to the Mediterranean Sea and the other part to the North Sea.
French poet Gilles described the beauty of the Venoge, the river that this stage follows from Cossonay to Saint-Sulpice, sometimes high up, sometimes beside the water. The pilgrims’ path finally reaches Lac Léman and continues on via the Roman town of Vidy to Lausanne.
From the quay in Ouchy, the ViaFrancigena runs along the Lac Léman shores to Vilette. It then winds through the Lavaux terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage. Fantastic views over Lac Léman.
From Vevey, the trail follows the lake to Villeneuve. On the way, you can visit the games museum in the Tour-de-Peilz castle or the famous Chillon castle before reaching the Chablais wine region.
approx. 6.5 h
approx. 27 km
300 m
280 m
Day
7
Departure or extension
Tour character
On pilgrimage routes through the Yverdon-les-Bains region to Lake Geneva. The paths are easy to follow, but for the long stages you need a good basic condition and some experience in long-distance hiking.
overnight stays according to the itinerary incl. Breakfast
Daily luggage transfers
Pilger pass
Costs for luggage pick-up at the station (for direct arrival and departure)
Subsidy for arrival by train
Carefully elaborated route description
Travel documents (1 x per room) incl. SwitzerlandMobility Plus subscription
Service hotline
Note:
Tourist tax, if due, is not included in the price!
Reservation fee of CHF 15 per adult (incl. legally required customer money protection)
Information
Arrival/Departure:
Arrival by public transport to Ste-Croix. Drop off your luggage at the Parterhotel by 10:00 am at the latest.
Departure by public transport from Aigle. Suitcases will be returned to the luggage counter by 17:00 at the latest.
Travel Documents
Travel documents "digital”
In future we will reduce the amount of printed documents. You will receive instructions to help you find your way around using the SwitzerlandMobility app. We will provide you with further information online. In advance you will receive a small package of documents with the following contents:
On the way, you can easily find your way with the SwitzerlandMobility app and other freely accessible aids. Background information and all other documents are delivered electronically and can be downloaded to your mobile phone in advance.