Attractions and Places To See around Cervens - Top 20

Nice Spot! Absolutely cyclitsapproved 🫵🫰

This chapel, dedicated to Saint Bruno, founder of the Carthusian Order, was built on the remains of the former convent church of the Carthusian monastery of Sainte-Marie de Vallon[1]. In 1543, the Carthusians of Vallon were forced to leave their monastery, which was dismantled[1]. When they regained possession of their property in 1607, they found only ruins of the old charterhouse. Only a few sections of the walls remained standing[1]. After building their fortified house in Génicot[2] on the right bank of the Brevon (now on the lake), they erected a chapel in the part of the old charterhouse, in homage to Saint Bruno and in memory of the monks who preceded them. Since the walls of the choir of their former convent church and those of the sacristy had not collapsed, a nave surmounted by a wooden vault was built in 1651[3]. In 1793, it was sold as national property[3]. Abandoned by its new owners, it then passed to the Gougain family, along with the entire property known as "La chèvre"[1]. In 1833, the Carthusians returned to work repairing the walls and vault, redoing the roof, and installing a bell tower. Bishop Pierre-Joseph Rey inaugurated the renovated chapel during the summer of 1836[3]. It received various donations, including from Converset David François Marie[citation needed]. In 1847, it was finally transferred to the churchyard[1]. Processions would go there to pray for rain or good weather; but Bishop Louis Rendu banned these events in 1852[citation needed]. In 1855, it was burned to the ground. A violent wind blew as the Abbey building burned and burning embers set it alight in turn[1]. Nothing new remained except the walls. M Chappaz undertook a collection throughout the parish and had repairs carried out during 1856: plaster vault, roof, bell tower, gallery, floor, altar[3]. On July 11, 1857, the renovated chapel was blessed.

Beautiful views into the depths and beyond.

The climb up the winding path to Chapelle Saint-Bruno is rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Lac de Vallon and the surrounding mountains. This historic chapel, perched on top of a hill, with its peaceful interior, is a place where you can enjoy a serene atmosphere. Don’t forget to take the time to soak up the breathtaking view and listen to the soothing sounds of nature.

The Col de Cou, at an altitude of 1,117 metres, takes you from the Vallée Verte to the Côte-en-Chablais region. Several roads lead there, which allows you to train by varying the routes and difficulties. The hardest climb is the one on the western slope from Fessy, with seven kilometres at an average of 7.5%.

Even though the funicular ride isn't free, it's definitely worth it. With the ticket you can also take an hour's bus ride. The views are fantastic. It's truly an experience!

A ride on the funicular is worthwhile. From the top you have a wonderful view of Lake Geneva and the port of Thonon-les-Bains. There are seats on the train, but also plenty of standing room. With the ticket you buy you can also use the buses in Thonon-les-Bains for a day.

Nice climb just too steep, about 5%, and not too busy.