La Praz is considered a small village at the foot of the Jura. A prehistoric megalithic ensemble, the Reformed church and views of the Gros-de-Vaud, Lake Geneva and the Alps give visitors different ways to experience the place: archaeological history, protected architectural heritage and the landscape on the hillside. These themes range from prehistoric stones to a 19th-century church building and complement the landscape perspective.
Hillside setting, forest and views
The municipality stretches across the gentle slope of the Jura balcony and covers 512 hectares, of which 210 hectares are forest. Forest therefore accounts for a little over two-fifths of the municipal area. Its south-eastern orientation provides particularly generous sunshine. The sloping terrain offers views of the Gros-de-Vaud, Lake Geneva and the Alps. Forest, open hillside and distant views are thus distinct features of the local landscape.
Cromlech and architectural history
A prehistoric cromlech can be seen in the forest southwest of the village, beside a footpath. Five blue-green rhyolite blocks are arranged in a circle, held together by several smaller connecting stones. The ensemble was excavated in the 19th century, classified as a historic monument in 1900 and designated protected cultural heritage. The form of the site and its historical classifications complement one another: the circle of five blocks is its visible feature, while the excavation and classification mark its archaeological history. When visiting the forest, visitors should stay on the paths and follow the recommended routes.
Remains of Roman buildings, tufa-stone tombs and ancient weapons were uncovered in the area known by the field name La Chapelle, south of the village.
The Reformed church on Place du Temple also combines architectural history and protected status: it has been protected as a historic monument since 10 June 1960 and has interesting stained-glass windows. The building plans and cost estimates for the temple date from 1840 to 1842 and bear the signature of the architect Perregaux. Together with the cromlech, the church offers a comparison across time: the stone setting points to prehistory, while the building plans relate to a 19th-century project.
Cheese from La Praz
Fromagerie La Praz lists fondue, Prazette (raclette cheese), Gruyère and Délice du Nozon among its products. Check their availability before visiting. Gruyère AOP from La Praz received a silver medal at the 2024 Swiss Cheese Awards.
La Praz on the cycling tour
The Chalet Dernier cycling tour runs from RomainmĂ´tier through La Praz and Juriens to Chalet Dernier; the return route goes via Juriens to RomainmĂ´tier. Along the way, the route approaches La Praz through the Bois de la Sapelle and the Champs Cocard, before a steep ramp leads into the village centre. La Praz is therefore a stop on the circuit; it starts and ends in RomainmĂ´tier. If planning the ride, check the trail conditions before setting off.
Discover more destinations: Bullet Vd, Vugelles-La Mothe, Concise, Baulmes, L'abbaye, Le Chenit, Mathod, Ballaigues
See the wider travel overview: Northern Vaud Jura.
