Last week, we had the most enchanting experience in the French-speaking region of Switzerland: a night-time snowshoe hike followed by a gourmet dinner at the Auberge du Lac Retaud. It was a perfect blend of adventure, nature, and culinary delight that left us in awe.
A Starry Hike to Remember
The evening began at Col du Pillon, where we strapped on our snowshoes and set off on a serene trail illuminated only by our headlamps and the countless stars above. The snow-covered landscape sparkled under the moonlight, creating an almost magical atmosphere. The hike itself was slightly uphill, taking about 35 minutes along a well-marked path, (winter road). It felt as though we were stepping into a winter wonderland, at one point we turned off our headlamps to just look at the sky full of starts, incredible experience.
A Warm Welcome at Auberge du Lac Retaud
Perched at an altitude of 1,685 meters, the Auberge du Lac Retaud greeted us with its warm and cozy charm. The restaurant’s rustic alpine décor instantly made us feel at home. We were welcomed by the restaurant manager, whose knowledge and passion for the region’s cuisine added a personal touch to our evening. He shared stories about the local ingredients, making the meal even more special.
A Feast for the Senses
The dinner was nothing short of spectacular. The highlight was the food. I opted for the Fondue à l’Auberge the traditional “moitié-moitié” fondue—a creamy blend of Gruyère and Vacherin cheeses that paired perfectly with crusty bread and potatoes. My family thoroughly enjoyed the Cordon bleu de porc à la viande séchée de bœuf et roquette d’alpage, which was absolutely delicious and made the evening truly unforgettable.
The meals were perfectly paired with local Swiss wines recommended to us. For dessert, we indulged in the chef’s decadent chocolate cake, a tangy lemon verrine, and a delightful blueberry tart.
Every dish was prepared to perfection, showcasing the chef’s skill in combining traditional Swiss flavors with refined techniques. The portions were generous, leaving us all satisfied and impressed.
The Descent Under Moonlight
After dinner, we reluctantly left the warmth of the auberge to begin our descent. The return hike felt even more magical as we retraced our steps under the starry sky, with full hearts and happy bellies.
Why You Should Try It
This experience is perfect for anyone seeking a unique winter adventure that combines physical activity with fine dining. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or new to snowshoeing, the trail is accessible and rewarding. And with such an exceptional meal waiting at the end, it’s an outing you’ll never forget. If you’re not up for the snow hike, they also offer the option of taking a snowmobile to the restaurant. However, I’d definitely recommend hiking at least one way to fully enjoy the stunning winter scenery and perhaps opting for the snowmobile ride back.
If you’re ever in Les Diablerets during winter, don’t miss this unforgettable combination of nature and gastronomy at Auberge du Lac Retaud. It’s a memory we’ll cherish forever!
A heartfelt thank you to Auberge du Lac Retaud. and Alpes Vaudoises for hosting us and giving us the opportunity to experience this incredible adventure. While this was a sponsored post, all opinions and impressions are entirely our own.
