Villars-Burquin lies on the southern slope of the Jura at an altitude of about 750 metres above sea level and around 300 metres above the level of Lake Neuchâtel. Marked trails, an arboretum and the local cheese dairy give the village its many facets. When planning your visit, consider how much time you would like to set aside for nature, village history and regional specialities.
Hiking trails and nature around Villars-Burquin
Villars-Burquin has a network of marked hiking trails. These include the Chemin des crêtes du Jura, which connects with long-distance hiking routes. The Sentier Tévenol starts in the village and follows an easy 6.4-kilometre route; the walk takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes. Eleven information panels cover the nature and four villages of the municipality of Tévenon. Along the way, you can also spot around ten bird species—the number may vary depending on the season.
The circular walk by the Tévenon Arboretum is a shorter option: it is easy, 0.65 kilometres long and takes about 30 minutes. This makes it significantly different from the Sentier Tévenol in terms of time required. The arboretum, located below Villars-Burquin, contains native forest tree species; the walk offers views of Lake Neuchâtel.
A barefoot trail also runs through the arboretum and continues to a forest sofa. There are places to picnic or barbecue there. The trail is open from May to September. If you plan to take this seasonal route, bear this opening period in mind.
A break and a view of the landscape
The Ancienne Cabane des Cantonniers is available to the public and is open year-round and unlocked. Inside, there is a wood-burning stove, a table and a bench for a sheltered break. There is also a table and bench outside, where you can enjoy views of the landscape. If you are planning a winter visit, check access in advance.
Village history and church
On the western edge of the village stands the Église de Villars-Burquin, a stone monument built under the direction of architect Isoz. The church was consecrated in October 1895. The earliest documented traces of the village name date back to 1403. The history of the parish is also linked to the village: it was established in Villars-Burquin in 1897 and included the four municipalities of the Pied-de-la-Côte at the time.
Cheese and regional cuisine
The Fromagerie de Villars-Burquin makes Gruyère AOP in mild, semi-salted and strong varieties. Its soft cheese specialities include Brie, Briquette, Sanglé and Tartelette des Patrons; the cheese dairy produces around 15 varieties of soft cheese in total. Tastings and guided tours are among the events organised by the Fromagerie. Check the current programme in advance if you would like to attend one of these events.
The shop is located at Route de Romairon 2, CH-1423 Villars-Burquin (VD). It is open Monday to Friday from 8:00 to 12:15 and from 16:00 to 19:00. On weekends and public holidays, opening hours are 8:00 to 12:15 and 14:00 to 19:00. Check opening hours before your visit. Café-Restaurant Vitoria serves local and Portuguese dishes prepared according to traditional recipes; the menu and availability may change.
Discover more destinations: Vugelles-La Mothe, Vallorbe, L'abbaye, Sainte-Croix, Concise, Le Lieu, L'abbaye, Yverdon-Les-Bains.
For the broader travel guide: Northern Vaud Jura.
