Les Mosses

The Col des Mosses has been used since ancient times, as evidenced by the discovery of an axe dating back to the Bronze Age. One of the first written mentions of the pass dates back to 1475, when the Bernese used it to conquer the town of Aigle.

The origins of the Col des Mosses

Initially used as a mule track, in particular for the salt trade from the Bex mines, the need for a passable road was felt as early as 1832, urged on by the inhabitants of Les Ormonts. The road was finally built between 1868 and 1869, and then modernised several times over the course of the 20th century.

Until the end of the 19th century, the Col des Mosses was the main direct link between the Pays-d'Enhaut and the rest of the canton of Vaud. Tourism began to develop in the 18th and 19th centuries, notably with the L'Etivaz baths.

In 1959, the first ski lift was installed at Les Mosses, and the region quickly became a popular destination for skiing, hiking, horse riding and mountain biking.

Thanks to its topography, the Col des Mosses is also an ideal place for cross-country skiing, with numerous trails that can be used as soon as the first heavy snow falls.