Best attractions and places to see around Hermenches, a commune in the Broye-Vully district of Vaud, Switzerland, offers a blend of historical charm and natural scenery. Situated on the Swiss plateau, it features the deeply carved Mérine and Bressonne Valleys, and the Bois de Ban forest. The area is characterized by agricultural land and forested areas, with historical landmarks such as Hermenches Castle.
Last updated: May 25, 2026
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The church tower of Saint-Etienne was once an integral part of the fortifications. Easily recognizable by its solid construction and the loopholes on the sides. In the tower passage there is an interesting information board stating that Wolfgang Amadé Mozart and his family stopped in Moudon in 1766 on their journey through Switzerland.
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One of the 12 fountains on the fountain circuit. It was used to supply the soldiers with water on their journey between the Pontaise barracks and the shooting range on the Mauvernay plain.
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The first mention of a church dedicated to Saint Stephen in Moudon dates from 1134-1143, although its existence probably dates back further. Located outside the medieval village centered on the hill, it was then the counterpart to the Notre-Dame chapel located at the top of this hill1. Nicknamed “the cathedral of Broye” by the city's inhabitants, it is the largest parish church in the canton of Vaud and one of the best examples of radiant Gothic style in French-speaking Switzerland2. Construction began around 1281, the date of the enclosure flanking the apse wall, and was completed around 1330 with the construction of the last three vaults and the western rose. The bell tower, openworked at its base by the town gate, was erected between the years 1417 and 1436. Chapels were then added to the sides. The simple plan, without transept, evokes a Cistercian influence with its three naves and its rectangular choir, but in elevation the style is radiant Gothic. The vaults are decorated with paintings in 1506-1512. The stalls from 1499-1502 are the work of sculptors Rodolphe Pottu, Peter Vuarser and Mattelin Vuarser. The communion table, Gothic, dates from 1564. The molasse pulpit was built in 1695. The baroque buffet organ from 1764 is by the maker Adrien-Joseph Pottier and the sculptors Joseph Dellion and Charles Puidoux. Finally, the stained glass windows date from 1935-1937 (Ernest Biéler), and 1951-1953 (Charles Clément)2. The church was restored several times, in 1836-1839 by the architect Henri Perregaux3, then again in 1896-1897, in 1934-1935, in 1949-1974 (with interruptions)2. The church is listed as a Swiss cultural property of national importance. Source Wikipedia
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The Reformed Church of Saint-Étienne, also known as the Temple of Saint-Étienne, is a Protestant church in the commune of Moudon in the canton of Vaud, Switzerland. It is a parish church of the Evangelical Reformed Church of the canton of Vaud
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Good for cooling off, drinking and pretty fountain
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Good trail mountain biking to do his training. 10 km or 20 km of your choice.
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Water controlled but cannot be declared drinkable. It is however consumable, but it depends on the seasons and the weather.
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Hermenches and its surroundings offer several historical sites. The 17th-century Hermenches Castle, though now a medical-social establishment, is a significant landmark. You can also visit the impressive Saint-Étienne Reformed Church, Moudon, known as the largest parish church in the canton of Vaud and a prime example of radiant Gothic architecture. Further afield, the fairytale-like Château de Lucens, perched on a hill, is also worth seeing.
Yes, there are several family-friendly options. The Talent River Trail is a marked 10 km hiking path that follows the peaceful Talent river, perfect for a family outing. The Soldiers' Fountain is also considered family-friendly and offers an interesting historical anecdote about its use. Additionally, the Saint-Étienne Reformed Church, Moudon is a historical site suitable for all ages.
Hermenches is situated on the Swiss plateau, specifically the northeastern part of the Jorat plateau, offering a diverse natural landscape. Its western border is marked by the deeply carved Mérine Valley, while the Bressonne Valley forms its eastern boundary. The Bois de Ban forest to the southwest contains the commune's highest point at 834 meters. The area is predominantly agricultural land and forested areas, with streams like Corcelles and Cuchepan contributing to its rural charm.
The region around Hermenches offers various routes for walking and hiking. The Talent River Trail is a popular marked hiking trail extending about 10 km, offering views of the region and forests. For more options, you can explore the many routes available in the cycling guides around Hermenches, which often include paths suitable for walking.
Yes, mountain biking enthusiasts will find trails around Hermenches. For example, the highlight Crossing the logs on the forest trail indicates specific features for mountain biking. You can find a comprehensive selection of routes, including options like 'The Broye Singletrack' or 'Picnic Area by the Flon River', in the MTB Trails around Hermenches guide.
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical charm and natural beauty. The Soldiers' Fountain is noted for its interesting history, while the Talent River Trail is loved for its peaceful river and scenic views. The architectural grandeur of the Saint-Étienne Reformed Church, Moudon also leaves a lasting impression on those who visit.
Absolutely. The region offers various road cycling routes. You can find options ranging from moderate to difficult, such as the 'Forest Road Descent loop from Moudon' or 'Lucens Castle – Scenic Riverside Cycle Path loop from Moudon'. For detailed information and route maps, refer to the Road Cycling Routes around Hermenches guide.
Hermenches Castle is a 17th-century historical landmark in the commune. Over its history, it has served various functions, including a restaurant and apartments, and currently operates as a medical-social establishment. Its presence highlights the rich past of Hermenches, with a chapel in the area even predating the castle's construction, first mentioned in 1453.
While Hermenches itself is a smaller commune, the nearby town of Lucens, which hosts Château de Lucens, offers a good selection of amenities. You'll find various restaurants, from pizzerias to traditional eateries, as well as supermarkets like Denner and Coop. The Moulin d'Assens, located near the Talent River Trail, has also been converted into a restaurant of excellent reputation.
The Soldiers' Fountain is an old fountain with an interesting history. It was historically used to supply soldiers with water as they traveled between the Pontaise barracks and a shooting range on the Mauvernay plain. It's one of 12 fountains on a local circuit and is considered a family-friendly historical site.
Yes, the region offers scenic views, particularly from elevated points. The Château de Lucens, situated on a hill, provides a great viewpoint over the surrounding area. The Bois de Ban forest, southwest of Hermenches village, contains the commune's highest point at 834 meters, likely offering expansive views of the Swiss plateau and the valleys below.
The Talent River Trail is a marked hiking path, approximately 10 km long, that was inaugurated in 2011. It allows visitors to discover the region while following the peaceful Talent river. Starting from Montheron, it leads to Echallens, crossing the Assens forests and offering the opportunity to discover the Moulin d'Assens, which now houses a restaurant.


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