Things to do in Ormont-Dessus

No. 3 of Ski Resorts in Switzerland

Glacier 3000

Glacier 3000 is located on the way from the shores of Lake Geneva to the Alps, so it is easily accessible from Geneva, Montreux, Lausanne, etc. If you have limited time in Switzerland, this is a great place to save time viewing the glaciers and have fun with the snow. The restaurant on top of the hill was designed by world designer Mario Botta and is futuristic. From here you can see the European peak Mont Blanc, Switzerland's iconic Matterhorn and the Jungfrau. There are also a variety of snow and ice sports available here: snowboarding, snow golf, snow bus and dog sledding. Here you can enjoy ice and snow fun even in summer. In addition, it is also a paradise for hiking from October to May. Climb the Oldenhorn at 3123 meters, or try the glacier hike from the summit cable car station ScexRouge to the Sanetsch pass and the fixed rope route to Gemskopf.

No. 6 of Fall Viewing Attractions in Switzerland

Chillon Castle

Chillon Castle stands on a small rocky island jutting into the eastern end of Lake Geneva, facing the lakeside town of Montreux and connected to the shore by a wooden bridge. The entire castle follows the contours of the oval island rock, surrounded by water on all sides. From the shore, it appears to float on the lake, with its gray-white stone walls and reddish-brown conical towers reflecting the lake and mountain scenery like a painting. The land-facing side is studded with arrow slits and shooting ports, forming a heavily fortified defense structure, while the lakeside features elegant Gothic arched windows, once the residence of the House of Savoy—a harmonious blend of strength and grace in this ancient waterborne fortress. The earliest written records of the castle date back to the mid-12th century, though its central keep was built in the 11th century, predating documented history. Strategically located on a vital north-south European trade route, merchants traveling to Rome via the Great St. Bernard Pass would pass by its gates. The House of Savoy leveraged this position to collect tolls and expanded the castle into their summer palace in the 13th century. After Bernese forces captured it in 1536, it successively became a bailiff's residence, armory, and prison. The castle's fame stems partly from its dungeon: François Bonivard, abbot of Geneva's St. Victor Abbey, was chained to a pillar here for years after opposing the Duke of Savoy's control of Geneva, until his rescue by the Bernese. In 1816, Lord Byron visited, immortalized the story in his poem "The Prisoner of Chillon," and carved his name on the pillar. Rousseau featured it in "Julie, or the New Heloise," while Hugo and other literati also wrote about it. Crossing the wooden bridge into the castle reveals courtyards, halls, bedrooms, the keep, and dungeons—like stepping through a three-dimensional medieval history book. The underground prison is particularly noteworthy: its walls are built from the island's natural rock, topped with Gothic vaulting typically reserved for cathedrals, with Byron's inscribed pillar still standing. Several grand halls once hosted Savoyard feasts, their windows framing Lake Geneva's vistas. The Bernese bedroom displays an elaborate four-poster bed with heating, a bathroom, and running water—remarkably advanced for its time. The Chapel of St. George preserves 14th-century religious murals, rare survivors of Reformation iconoclasm. The armory exhibits medieval to 17th-century weapons—swords, halberds, arquebuses, crossbows, and armor—offering insights into period warfare. Visitors should linger: beyond interior artifacts, the lakeside path offers classic panoramic views of this aquatic fortress.

No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Riviera Suisse

Golden Pass Railway

Two languages, three worlds, six lakes, one route: this is the Golden Pass route. In Montreux, the palm trees and southern vibes along the "Swiss Riviera" still prevail. French romance fills the air. Vineyards and gardens can be captured as the Golden Pass Express goes uphill, the trains are fading away, and a look back at Lake Geneva, the tunnels, and more. The Golden Pass Express is a fascinating route connecting the beautiful lakes of Switzerland such as Lake Geneva, Lake Thun, Lake Brienz and Lake Lucerne.

No. 5 of Family-friendly Attractions in Switzerland

Télé-Villars-Gryon-Diablerets SA

Télé-Villars-Gryon-Diablerets SA is located in the Canton of Vaud, Switzerland, with an altitude ranging from 1,300m to 2,000m, making it a paradise for ski enthusiasts. The ski resort here offers multiple slopes suitable for beginner and intermediate skiers, among which an 8 km long red slope is particularly notable, offering panoramic views of the Rhône Valley as you glide down. The ski school provides group lessons for children aged 4 and up, as well as private lessons for adults, helping visitors quickly master skiing skills. For non-skiers, there is no shortage of exciting activities here, where you can experience thrilling toboggan runs or challenge yourself with ice climbing to feel the unique charm of winter. In summer, Télé-Villars-Gryon-Diablerets SA is a paradise for hiking enthusiasts, featuring picturesque hiking trails. The beautiful scenery along the way adds infinite color and fun to your hiking trip. At the mountain-top restaurant, you can enjoy authentic Swiss cuisine while taking in the magnificent view of Mont Blanc from the terrace, which is undoubtedly an ideal choice for relaxation after a day of skiing.

2026 Global 100 - Best Things to Do

Jungfrau

△ Ascend to 3,454 m above sea level and enjoy a 3‑hour visit at the Jungfraujoch “Top of Europe”. △ Stopovers and spectacular views, including glacier plateaus, the Sphinx viewing terrace, Snow Fun Park, Ice Palace, and a 360° cinematic experience. There are usually three starting points: Interlaken East, Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen. i.Interlaken:A lively town with convenient transportation and dining options, often chosen by tourists. ii.Grindelwald:Offers unbeatable scenery and charming slopes, with high playability. It is closer to Jungfrau and also offers outdoor activities at First Mountain, making it a popular choice among young people. iii.Lauterbrunnen:A beautiful valley and waterfall town. △ Climb the Jungfraujoch! Drive to the charming town of Interlaken and immerse yourself in the picturesque scenery along the way. Admire the legendary Jungfraujoch in Switzerland, which was blessed by angels. △ Take your trip on the train, and enjoy the scenery along the way. △ A must-visit photo spot with the Swiss flag.On the glacier platform with amazing views, you will experience snow and ice 365 days a year, guaranteed. △ Facilities: excellent restaurants (Crystal, Bollywood, Aletsch Self‑Service), Lindt Chocolate Heaven, and immersive exhibitions like Alpine Sensation.

No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Lake Geneva

The Fork - Alimentarium

The Fork is a unique public art installation located on the shores of Lake Geneva in Vevey, right next to the Lavaux Food Museum. Standing about eight meters tall, the giant stainless steel fork stands in the lake, creating a striking landscape along the lakefront. The Fork was initially installed temporarily to celebrate the museum's 10th anniversary, but due to its popularity, it has since become a permanent exhibit. Visitors can stroll along the lake and admire the integration of this artwork with the lake and the mountains. The Fork is not only a popular spot for taking photos, but also provides visitors with an opportunity to think about the relationship between food and culture. The nearby Lavaux Food Museum offers more exhibitions on the history and culture of food, which is worth a visit as well. The city of Vevey, where the Fork is located, is easily accessible by train or bus. The city center is just a short walk from the lake, and there are many restaurants and cafes around, so it is convenient for visitors to enjoy a meal after viewing the Fork.

Peak Walk By Tissot

2026 Global 100 - Best Things to Do

Milan Cathedral

•Located in the center of Milan, the cathedral is a landmark of Milan •Admire the enchanting hall, towering stone pillars, and dazzling stained glass windows while studying design elements of various styles •On the platform level, you can see the exquisite spires of Milan Cathedral and the statues on top of them. The statues vary in form and are lifelike. △The church has 135 spires of varying sizes, each topped with a statue. Carvings and spires are one of the defining features of Gothic architecture, and Milan Cathedral exemplifies this characteristic to the fullest. As such, it is also the Gothic church with the most statues in the world, featuring approx. 6,000 marble statues in total. △Immerse yourself in the treasures and artistic touches within the magnificent church. Admire the incredible nave and the way light flickers through the stained glass windows. Study the sarcophagi and approach the exquisitely decorated altar.

No. 19 of Ski Resorts in Switzerland

Nendaz (4 Valleys)

Located at the heart of the Four Valleys ski area, at 1,300 metres above sea level, Nendaz (4 Valleys) is a year-round outdoor sports hub in the Alps. As part of the European Connected Ski Area (412km of ski slopes), it is connected to four major ski areas including Verbier by a modern cable car system, with year-round ski access to the glacier ski slopes at 3,330 metres above sea level. Winter highlights include the family ski area and freestyle terrain park on the Tracouet Plateau, equipped with 22 cable cars and 97km of dedicated ski slopes. Non-skiers can experience a 15km network of snowshoe trails through pine forests to visit a group of 17th-century wooden barns. In summer, it transforms into a mountain sports centre, with 80km of marked hiking routes connecting alpine pastures, and a cable car directly to the Mont-Gond viewing platform at 2,870 metres above sea level, providing a paragliding launch point and a rock wall abseiling area.

Tobogganing Park