Attractions and Places To See around Bavois - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Bavois, a municipality in the canton of Vaud, Switzerland, offers a local experience and serves as a base for exploring the wider region. The area features historical sites, natural landscapes, and charming towns. Located on the Plain de L'Orbe, Bavois provides access to the Jura mountains and the scenic Orbe river valley. Visitors can explore a mix of cultural landmarks and natural features within and near the village.
Best attractions and places to see around Bavois
- The most popular attractions is Dard Waterfall, a waterfall found in the middle of a forest. It features magnificent cascades and a small pond at its feet.
- Another must-see spot is Orbe, a settlement. This charming old town is located on a hill in a meander of the Orbe river, featuring small shops, restaurants, and colorful facades.
- Visitors also love La Sarraz Castle, a castle that dates back to the 11th century and was renovated in the 15th and 16th centuries. It is located in a park above the village of La Sarraz.
- Bavois is known for historical sites, natural features, and charming towns. The region offers a variety of experiences, from exploring medieval architecture to discovering scenic waterfalls.
- The attractions around Bavois are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 230 upvotes and over 120 photos shared.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Dard Waterfall
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Orbe
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La Sarraz Castle
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Romainmôtier Abbey
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Canal d’Entreroches
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Tips from the Community
The idea was to create a connection between Yverdon and the Mediterranean, with the goal of selling wine. Unfortunately, the project ran out of money...
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The horse museum in the outbuildings shows horse-drawn vehicles and highlights the role of the horse and harness in warfare, in the circus, in hunting with greyhounds, etc.
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This castle is located in a park above the village and dates back to the 11th century. It was renovated in the 15th and 16th centuries. In front of the living area with two round corner turrets there are two heavy square towers with aisles.
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The old-fashioned but charming town of Orbe is located on a hill in a meander of the Orbe. From the Place du Marché, decorated by a fountain with a standard bearer (1753), a small street leads to the reformed church from the 15th-16th century (naves with interesting keystones) and further to the terrace of the former castle, which offers a beautiful view of the lower city and the Orbe valley.
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The old town, which consists of a lower and an upper part, is really kitschy and beautiful. Small shops, many restaurants, colorful facades and the castle characterize Orbe.
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If you want to hike through the "Nozon Gorge", you "must" definitely pay a visit to the medieval town of Romainmôtier and the former Benedictine abbey. It would be even better to include this place of power, full of romantic history and spirituality, in your hike. The somewhat sleepy village of Romainmôtier, nestled in the seemingly evergreen nature of the Vaud region, is just 1.5 km from the Croy-Romainmôtier train station and can be easily reached on foot or by postbus. Danger! Unfortunately, the PostBus doesn't drive so diligently. Therefore, first check the travel times for who is arriving by public transport. If you want to come here by car or camper, you will find a spacious nature park area just a few minutes' walk from the center. (Paying) The abbey and its surrounding buildings, squares and alleys form the heart of this pretty little town. Everything, absolutely everything, transports the visitor to a bygone era. The collegiate church, which is open to the public, is a real feast for the eyes. In general, the monastery complex is one of the oldest, if not the oldest, in Switzerland. So if you don't pay attention to this historic place on your trip to the Vaudois nature, you've really missed something. ABSOLUTE VISIT RECOMMENDATION!!!
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An idyllic place that changes from spectacular to romantic depending on the water level of the "Nozon". Only during the holiday season and when the weather is nice at the weekends is an increased crowd to be expected.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore near Bavois?
The region around Bavois offers several beautiful natural features. You can visit the magnificent Dard Waterfall, nestled in a forest with impressive cascades and a small pond. For hikers, the Nozon Gorge near Romainmôtier provides scenic natural landscapes. While not directly in Bavois, the prominent natural feature of Lake Geneva is also accessible for boat tours and enjoying the scenery.
Are there historical sites or cultural landmarks to visit in and around Bavois?
Yes, the area is rich in history. In Bavois itself, the historically registered 14th-century Château de Bavois is a significant landmark, showcasing elegant old-world architecture. Nearby, you can explore La Sarraz Castle, an 11th-century fortress with a horse museum. The medieval town of Romainmôtier is home to the former Benedictine Romainmôtier Abbey, one of Switzerland's oldest monastery complexes. The charming old town of Orbe also features historical buildings and a reformed church.
What outdoor activities are available near Bavois?
The region is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous routes for hiking, gravel biking, and mountain biking. For hiking, explore trails like the Canal d’Entreroches loop or the Étang du Buron loop. Gravel biking options include routes to the source of the Venoge or around Romainmôtier. Mountain biking trails offer challenging rides, such as those around Dard Waterfall or La Sarraz. You can find detailed guides for these activities at Hiking around Bavois, Gravel biking around Bavois, and MTB Trails around Bavois.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in the Bavois area?
Absolutely. Several attractions are noted as family-friendly. La Sarraz Castle, with its historical exhibits and horse museum, is a great option for families. The medieval town of Romainmôtier Abbey also welcomes families to explore its ancient grounds. Many of the easier hiking trails around Bavois, such as the Étang du Buron loop, are suitable for families with children.
What is the best time of year to visit Bavois for outdoor activities?
The best time to visit Bavois for outdoor activities largely depends on your preferences. Spring and autumn are ideal for hiking and cycling, offering pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. The Dard Waterfall is particularly impressive between seasons or after rainfall. Summers are warm, suitable for exploring towns and perhaps enjoying Lake Geneva, though some waterfalls might have reduced flow. Winters can be cold, with opportunities for different activities, but some trails might be less accessible.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints around Bavois?
For scenic views, the terrace of the former castle in Orbe offers a beautiful panorama of the lower city and the Orbe valley. The Château de Bavois itself provides idyllic views of the rolling countryside and the Jura mountains. Additionally, the Dard Waterfall is considered a viewpoint due to its impressive natural setting.
Can I find dog-friendly trails or activities near Bavois?
While specific dog-friendly designations for attractions are not always listed, many natural trails and outdoor areas around Bavois are suitable for walks with dogs, provided they are kept on a leash and owners clean up after them. The hiking routes mentioned, such as those around Étang du Buron or the Canal d’Entreroches, are generally good options for dog owners.
What is the Canal d’Entreroches and why is it significant?
The Canal d’Entreroches is a historical man-made monument representing an early European attempt in the 17th century to connect the North Sea and the Mediterranean Basin via an inland waterway. Although never fully completed, it served for decades to transport goods like wine, salt, and cereals. Today, it's a fascinating historical site and a popular area for walks, forming a connection between the Rhine and Rhone Basins.
Are there any charming towns or villages worth visiting near Bavois?
Yes, several charming towns are easily accessible. Orbe is a picturesque old town with small shops, restaurants, colorful facades, and a medieval atmosphere. Romainmôtier, with its ancient abbey, offers a glimpse into a bygone era. La Sarraz, home to its historic castle, is another delightful village to explore.
What kind of terrain and difficulty can I expect on hiking trails near Bavois?
Hiking trails near Bavois offer a range of difficulties. You can find easy walks like the Étang du Buron loop, which is relatively flat. Moderate trails, such as the Canal d’Entreroches loop or the Orbe – Old Town loop, might involve some elevation changes or longer distances. For more challenging experiences, some mountain biking and gravel biking routes in the wider region are rated as difficult, often involving significant climbs and technical sections.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Bavois?
Visitors appreciate the diverse experiences offered. The Dard Waterfall is loved for its 'Colorado Canyon feeling' and magnificent cascades. The old town of Orbe is praised for its charming, 'kitsch and beautiful' medieval townscape, colorful facades, and views. Romainmôtier Abbey is highly recommended as a 'place of power' full of romantic history and spirituality, transporting visitors to a bygone era.
Most popular attractions around Bavois
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