In L'Abbaye, abbey history, trails by Lac de Joux and waterside activities are part of the village’s character. The village is part of Parc Jura Vaudois. Visitors planning a stay can choose from historic sights, walking trails, lakeside activities and excursions into the surrounding countryside.
Abbey history and Tour de L'Abbaye
The Premonstratensian monastery was built between 1126 and 1134 and remained in operation until the arrival of the Bernese in 1536. L'Abbaye is considered the first inhabited place in the Vallée de Joux. Today, only the Tour de L'Abbaye and the reconstructed remains of the arcades are visible from the former abbey. The tower, visible from afar, was built in the first third of the 14th century and is considered a landmark of the village of the same name. From the tower, the view stretches across Lac de Joux to the hill of Epinettes, also known as Revers.
Inside the church is a model of the former monastery. Dr. Convert made it in the 1950s and used it as a set for a film about the monastery. Some of the anti-tank fortifications built during the Second World War are also still visible in L'Abbaye; they are known as “Toblerones.”
After renovation work was completed in spring 2019, the Tour de L'Abbaye opened for public guided tours. Visits are offered from 1 April to 31 October by advance reservation. Check booking options in advance if you plan to visit the tower.
Trails with different focuses
The Chemin de Saint-Norbert uses nine stained-glass windows to tell the story of the abbey by Lac de Joux. It is an easy 0.9 km walk, with 25 m of ascent and 7 m of descent. For a different way to explore the village’s history, the Chemin de méditation follows the historic lakeside trail used by the parish priest of L'Abbaye on his way to Les Bioux. Six reflective stations with panels each pose a question to walkers. One trail focuses on stained-glass windows and abbey history, while the other offers questions along a historic route.
The Chaudière de l'Enfer is a hiking destination and is described as the source of the Lionne. A lakeside trail connects L'Abbaye with Le Pont along Lac de Joux. Those interested in cross-country skiing will also find the 6 km, easy L'Orient–Les Bioux–L'Abbaye route along the lakeshore. Cross-country ski equipment can be rented from sports shops in L'Abbaye.
Lakeside, activities and regional cuisine
Plage de L'Abbaye has a large lawn, a playground, a table tennis table and a pétanque court. There are also equipped barbecue areas, tables and a small covered seating area. A floating pontoon is suitable for launching rowboats, canoes or stand-up paddleboards. In summer, activities in the village also include a sailing club with a sailing school; archery is offered by Les Archets de Joux.
Above the village is the Les Croisettes mountain inn, surrounded by pastures and forests. Visitors can sample local or regional farm products there. The menu includes rösti, croûtes, fondue, Malakoffs and various salads; the offerings may change, so it is worth checking before you arrive. Brunch is served from 10:00 to 11:30 by advance reservation. It is seasonal, so check availability in advance. Access to the mountain inn may also vary by season.
For a stay with winter activities, the Téléskis du Lac de Joux ski area has a snack bar and the “Le Tremplin” picnic room. As facilities may change, check the latest details before your visit.
Getting there and choosing accommodation
The Vallée de Joux is accessible by SBB train from Lausanne without a change. Buses and trains run hourly around Lac de Joux, serving the villages in the region. Check the timetable before departure for your specific connection.
Visits to the tower are subject to the season and advance reservation; for Les Croisettes, check the season and availability.
Discover more destinations: Baulmes, Bonvillars, Le Chenit, Grandevent, Vaulion, Cronay, Les Rasses, Mathod.
View the broader travel overview: Northern Vaud Jura.
