Lac des Chavonnes on the gravel bike

With its hundreds of kilometers of paths, the region of the Vaudois Alps is ideal for practicing gravel. An example: this loop which connects the pastures of Villars, Les Diablerets and Gryon. Leaving from Villars-sur-Ollon, a well-known resort in winter and summer, you reach Bretaye via Les Ecovets and the route des Tailles, which offers a superb view of the surrounding peaks such as the Grand Chamossaire and the Dents du Midi. This tarmacked climb (except for the last kilometer) can be avoided by taking the train from Villars. In Bretaye, you first head to the Lac des Chavonnes whose restaurant at the water's edge is an ideal stop for those who have ridden their bikes. You then pass under the Tête de Meilleret (1938m) before discovering a breathtaking view of the imposing Massif des Diablerets. Shortly after the summit of the Col de la Croix that you cross by road, you turn left towards the farm and you approach the most technical part of this loop: a descent on a path that takes you to the Taveyanne road , a hamlet listed as a historical monument. Arriving at Le Chaux in the Gryon ski area, you descend towards Barboleuse via Frience and Solalex, whose refuge is an ideal stopover for a meal before returning by road to Villars. This loop combines gravel and calm roads in the pastures. It requires tires of at least 35mm and small developments to comfortably negotiate the climbs.

This alpine gravel loop from Villars showcases the rugged beauty of the Alpes vaudoises - home of the 2029 UCI Gravel Worlds. Expect a mix of scenic climbs, forest tracks, and technical descents, with stunning views and alpine stops like Solalex. A true adventure for experienced gravel riders.