Freiburg
Discover the beauty of Charmey and its surroundings
The region of Charmey, at the heart of Gruyère, is home to verdant natural environments that are accessible to everyone. A number of hikes provide the perfect way for visitors to enjoy the landscape. The region offers plenty of activities for families, couples and friends, no matter the season.
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Your hike in the Javro Valley
Discovering the “La Valsainte – La Berra” trail
Take a deep breath of fresh air on this trail that leads through the pastures of the Javro Valley. This is a mid-mountain route with no technical challenges but a good gradient.
The itinerary of the La Valsainte – La Berra trailTarget not accessible
Set off from the Chartreuse de La Valsainte and climb through mountain pastures and forests towards the Gîte d’Allières, a restaurant well known to skiers in Fribourg. From there, climb to the summit of La Berra, where you can enjoy a 360-degree view. Signs indicate the names of the surrounding mountains and settlements. Then continue along the ridge towards Auta Chia d’Amont. You will see the jagged peaks of the Recardets ahead, with a backdrop of the Kaiseregg to your left and the Dents Vertes to your right. The descent alternates between fields and woods before reaching La Valsainte, the last remaining active Carthusian monastery in Switzerland.
Benefit from supersaver tickets on this route! Route 290 Charmey–Cerniat–La ValsainteTarget not accessible operates during the week and at weekends all year round!
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Other unmissable activities
A moment of relaxation
Wellness center Les Bains de la Gruyère welcomes you for a revitalizing moment of relaxation in its three indoor and outdoor swimming pools, jacuzzi, hammam and other treatments.
History and traditions of the Charmey region
Musée Charmey, the La Tzintre Cheese Cellars and the old forge all reflect the link between the history and traditions of the Charmey region.
Winter activities
In winter, La Valsainte is a starting point for a number of snowshoe treks that are ideal for families, friends or those who prefer to go solo. Below are two suggested trails:
The “Pré-de-l’Essert” snowshoe trail
The “Pré-de-l’Essert” trail forms a loop through the Javroz Valley and is an ideal route for nature enthusiasts. The trail is signposted with retroreflective markers. You can park at the starting point or take Bus alpin route 290 to the “La Valsainte, Couvent” stop.
Even when there’s no snow, this is a lovely place for a winter hike, as it often catches the sun when the clouds are low.
The “La Valsainte – Vounetse” snowshoe trail
The “La Valsainte – VounetseTarget not accessible” trail leads you to the top of the Vounetse. Starting at La Valsainte, the route winds its way through mountain pastures and forests to La Chaux-du-Vent, Tissineva and finally the Vounetse summit.
From the summit, you can either return by the same route, take the ski lift or even take a different trail.
Alternatively, you can choose another winter hikeTarget not accessible!
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Duration |
4 hrs 45 mins |
Difficulty |
Medium – Difficult |
Distance |
14 km |
Altitude |
+ 833 m / - 837 m |
Outbound journey |
By car Parking Les Charrières à Charmey (cable car). Postbus route 290: depart from Charmey, Télécabine at 10.05 a.m.; arrive at La Valsainte, Couvent at 10.23 a.m. |
Return journey |
Postbus route 290: depart from La Valsainte, Couvent 4.30 p.m.; arrive at Charmey, Télécabine at 4.49 p.m. |