Experiencing Les Diablerets Mountain Traditions

Ramble Worldwide leader Avril continues exploring the land of the Swiss

Sometimes the most memorable moments arrive completely unscripted. We're on the local bus when one of our guests mentions to a Swiss gentleman that it's her birthday. Without warning, he fills the entire bus with yodelling at the top of his voice. We've never heard anything like it before, certainly not on public transport! The whole bus erupts in delighted applause. That's a birthday greeting to remember, and a reminder that the mountains hold surprises beyond their stunning views.

Today's walk takes us high into the pastures where we frequently move to the soundtrack of tinkling cowbells. These alpine creatures merely blink at us as they continue their ruminating and meditating, utterly unbothered by our presence. We stop at what looks like a simple farm chalet, but the family has opened a Buvette for summer, serving drinks and snacks to passing hikers.

The views from the wooden tables outside are wonderful, a perfect stop that feels like stepping into a postcard. We ask about the large selection of cow bells hanging from the roof. These larger bells, we learn, are used during la désalpe, when cattle are moved to lower grazing. Apparently the sound rings out all around the mountains, quite special to experience. We make mental notes to return in autumn to witness this ancient ritual.

Later, we discover a 'nano' brewery in the village, even smaller than a micro brewery! The owner explains the processes carefully as we sit in the small workspace, tasting various beers produced in the outbuilding of an old chalet. We don't know if the beer intoxicates us more or the atmosphere as we wander afterwards past wonderful vegetable gardens blooming in neighbouring houses.

These encounters, unplanned and authentic, remind us why we love guiding here. Les Diablerets offers not just mountain views but glimpses into a living culture that continues to thrive in these high valleys.