Tour de l'éboulement des Diablerets
A walk around the landscape created in a remote valley by two colossal rockslides in the 18th century. A tranquil lake, pristine forest, abundant wildlife: Derborence is now a national nature reserve.
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Difficulty
easy
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Length
6.6 km
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Duration
2:15 h
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On 23 Sep 1714, a geological cataclysm devastated the pastures of Derborence: part of the mountain above collapsed, wiping out the community of animals and herders who spent the summer there. Locals believed the disaster the work of the devil; the mountain became known as Les Diablerets. Because the “cursed” valley was largely abandoned, there were fewer casualties from an even bigger rockfall 35 years later. Giant boulders covered the valley floor, damming the river and creating Europe’s youngest natural lake. Scientists believe that about 50 million cubic metres of rock in all tumbled down from the mountain. Today, the “new” landscape – a national nature reserve – is the delight of biologists, geologists, photographers and visitors all ages. This hike links two tours: one of the rockslide debris (“Tour de l’éboulement des Diablerets”) and one of the lake (“Tour du Lac de Derborence”). Highlights include the virgin forest west of the lake with monumental fir trees up to 450 years old and undergrowth exceptionally rich in plant species. Walkers have excellent chances of spotting wildlife: local mammals include ibex, deer, chamois, marmot and lynx; birds include golden eagle, black grouse and bearded vulture. Families may prefer to opt for just one of the two tours that form our circuit. Each has a dedicated guide book (free download) with activities for children. A friendly mountain restaurant close to the two main lakes on the circuit offer rest and play stops. The journey up to Derborence is an adventure in itself. The only access is via a narrow, twisting road along the gorges of the river La Lizerne. Highlights Thrilling road journey to access the hike along a wild canyon Impressive landscape created by the rockslides, framed by dramatic mountains Attractive family theme trails
