Poised on a sunny plateau above the Rhône Valley, Villars-sur-Ollon (often simply called Villars) combines classic Swiss charm with a family-friendly vibe. Panoramic views stretch towards Lake Geneva and the surrounding Alpine peaks, while a convenient location, just over an hour from Geneva, makes it an appealing choice for both weekend getaways and longer ski holidays.
Here is your essential guide to planning the perfect Villars ski holiday, which includes everything from local highlights and slopes for all skill levels to the best spots for dining and unwinding after a day on the mountain.
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Villars-sur-Ollon is located in the canton of Vaud, in south-west Switzerland.
Nearest airport
Transfer time
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Quick and straightforward transfer from Geneva | Limited challenges for experts |
| Ideal for beginners and intermediates | Low altitude resort can lead to variable snow conditions |
| Typical village atmosphere | Weekends and peak periods can get busy |
| Lots of indoor/outdoor activities beyond skiing | Limited nightlife options |
This short video provides a glimpse of everything Villars-sur-Ollon has to offer.
Most terrain in the immediate Villars area suits beginners and intermediates, with wide blue and red runs that meander through forested sections and more open slopes near Bretaye. For reliable snow at higher altitude, you can hop over to Les Diablerets and Glacier 3000, where the Peak Walk by Tissot and year-round glacier skiing add a memorable high-alpine touch. Modern snowmaking supplements natural snowfall, although the south-facing aspect means late-season conditions can be variable.
Villars is a solid choice for first-timers. Gentle nursery slopes sit near the village edge (including areas accessed by the cog railway towards Bretaye), so novice skiers aren’t isolated far from shops or accommodation. As confidence grows, the wide blue runs above Bretaye or in Gryon offer a gentle progression.
Thanks to a variety of red runs with impressive views over Lake Geneva and the surrounding Alps, intermediates have ample terrain to explore. The main ski sector between Bretaye, Les Chaux, and Les Diablerets is packed with scenic cruising. The comfortable gradients make it simple to rack up mileage while hopping between different mountain restaurants along the way. Those wanting an extra challenge can do a day trip to Glacier 3000 for slightly steeper pistes, plus the chance to tackle the dramatic Combe d’Audon red run.
Villars isn’t known for extreme terrain, but it does have a handful of black runs for confident skiers, particularly the sustained descent from Les Chaux (below the Sodoleuvre chair) and steeper options off Croix des Chaux, Chaux Rondes, and Chamossaire. For added challenge and higher-altitude slopes, advanced skiers can take a day trip to Glacier 3000 (included on ski passes of three or more consecutive days). The journey there takes around 1 hour 45 minutes via gondolas, chairlifts, and a short shuttle bus to Col du Pillon, followed by two cable cars to the top. Be mindful of return times, plan to leave Glacier 3000 by mid-afternoon to comfortably make it back to Villars.
Villars often appeals to snowboarders, thanks to wide, rolling slopes and a generally gondola, and chairlift-friendly setup. Freestyle enthusiasts can check out the snowparks in Villars-Gryon or head to Les Diablerets for additional park features. Long blue/red runs around Bretaye are perfect for practising turns, while more adventurous riders can explore side stashes and occasional powder bowls near the glacier.
The main attraction of Villars is its off-piste opportunities, particularly around the Les Diablerets Glacier (Glacier 3000), which can provide a spectacular 1,500 m vertical descent into the valley when conditions permit. For these routes, hiring a qualified guide is crucial due to the risks of avalanches and the complexity of route-finding.
The ski season in Villars-sur-Ollon for 2024/25 started on December 14th and it's expected to run until April 6th, though dates may vary depending on snow conditions. If you're planning a ski holiday to Villars this winter, be sure to explore our Villars deals for the best ski offers available.
Villars-sur-Ollon offers optimal snow conditions from December through April, each month presenting unique opportunities for skiers. December and January consistently bring about 28 cm (11.0 in) and 27 cm (10.6 in) of snow respectively, dispersed across roughly 2.9 days each week, ensuring regular fresh snow. February's snowfall decreases to 22 cm (8.6 in) but it occurs more frequently, averaging 3.0 days per week. The pinnacle of snowfall arrives in the second week of December, traditionally the snowiest week in Villars, with an impressive 37 cm (14.5 in) of snow over 3.4 days, making it a paradise for those who cherish Bluebird Powder Days, when sunshine and light winds follow fresh snowfall. The season stretches into April with enjoyable conditions, accumulating 12 cm (4.7 in) of snow over 1.9 days.
| Month | Snow amount (week) | Snow days (week) |
|---|---|---|
| December | 28 cm (11.0 in) | 2.9 days |
| January | 27 cm (10.6 in) | 3.1 days |
| February | 22 cm (8.6 in) | 3.0 days |
| March | 21 cm (8.2 in) | 2.8 days |
| April | 12 cm (4.7 in) | 1.9 days |
(Ref: snow-forecast.com)
Villars boasts an array of dining options, from rustic Alpine huts on the slopes to more refined eateries in the village. Classic Swiss staples (fondue, rösti, raclette) feature strongly, but you’ll also find pizzerias, grills, and modern bistros. Highlights include:
Villars’ après-ski scene is laid-back rather than frenetic. You’ll find cosy bars and lounge spots rather than late-night clubs. For dancing and later evenings, El Gringo is a disco-bar that stays open into the small hours. Other venues include:
Download Villars-sur-Ollon village map here
