Medieval heritage and trails in the Jura provide two clear themes for a trip to Arzier. The Chartreuse d’Oujon is situated in a clearing within the municipality of Arzier-Le Muids and is considered the oldest charterhouse in Switzerland.
The Charterhouse and Local History
The Notre-Dame d’Oujon Charterhouse was founded in 1146. Its ruins preserve a complete monastic complex in its medieval state. Information boards provide context for visitors. Its founding year and the preserved complex give the site a specific historical context.
The signposted Chemin spirituel d’Oujon also connects a trail with a historical theme. It is open to everyone, passes through the municipalities of Arzier-Le Muids and Trélex, and explores the medieval historical and spiritual ties between the Carthusians and the then-young village of Arzier.
The history of the area also includes the Reformed church, formerly Saint-Antoine, in Arzier-Le Muids. It is protected as a historic monument and has preserved woodwork from the 18th century.
Trails and Landscape
The routes vary considerably in length: the Chemin spirituel d’Oujon is 1.50 kilometres long, the section of the Chemin au Loup between Saint-Cergue and Arzier is 6 kilometres, and the Sentier des Toblerones is 18 kilometres. This offers a short themed trail alongside longer hiking routes.
The Chemin au Loup starts at Saint-Cergue railway station and descends from there towards Arzier. The trail passes through the forest and reaches a picnic area with views of Lake Geneva and the Alps.
The Sentier des Toblerones is suggested as a walking route in Arzier-Le Muids. This easy educational trail runs alongside Second World War fortifications featuring 3,000 triangular anti-tank obstacles. Information boards cover the forest, tree species and the defensive line.
Another hiking route, De St-George à Arzier, passes through the Gorges de Moinsel and reaches Arzier. Seasonal conditions may vary.
Heights and Natural Environment
The municipality of Arzier-Le Muids extends from the hamlet of Le Montant at 596 metres to the summit of Noirmont at 1,567 metres. Arzier is one of the Vaud municipalities within the nationally significant landscape area IFP 1022 Vallée de Joux et Haut-Jura vaudois.
The protected natural area of Creux du Croue lies within the municipality of Arzier. Geologically, it is an anticlinal hollow into which the strata of the Noirmont anticline have been cut. The area also includes a raised bog of national importance with peripheral drainage.
The wooded pastures of Arzier-Le Muids shape a typical Jura landscape and form an exceptional reservoir of biodiversity. The forests are open to everyone; walks pass through forests and pastures.
Railway and Hotel Search
Arzier is served by the NStCM railway. Arzier railway station is the starting point for several walking routes. From there, views extend across the lake, Mont Blanc, and the Swiss and French Alps. If the NStCM is part of your journey, check the timetable for your travel dates.
Discover more destinations: Saint-Cergue, Borex, Duillier, Founex, Coinsins, La Rippe, Genolier, Coppet.
For the broader travel overview: Nyon.
