Bike & Stay
at Chalet Royalp
01. The Vaud Alps: Switzerland's hidden cycling paradise
Nestled in the Swiss Alps, near Lake Geneva, the Vaud Alps are a dream destination for cyclists. With legendary climbs, peaceful mountain roads, and rolling valleys, the region offers unique diversity and beauty on every ride.
On the road, cyclists can conquer iconic passes such as the Col de la Croix and the Col du Pillon, both of which feature regularly in the Tour de Romandie and the Tour de Suisse. In addition to these iconic climbs, adventurous cyclists can venture off the beaten track and explore the quiet roads of the valleys that wind through alpine villages, vineyards, and forests, offering breathtaking views without heavy traffic.
Gravel enthusiasts will discover another world: forest trails above Villars, panoramic ridges with views of Mont Blanc, and hidden paths connecting alpine meadows and traditional hamlets. These trails will gain even more prestige when the region hosts the UCI Gravel World Championships in 2029.
The Vaud Alps are not only a playground for enthusiasts, but also a true hub for global cycling. Just a few minutes away, in Aigle, the UCI World Cycling Center welcomes riders from around the world for training and development, reinforcing the region's reputation as the capital of cycling.
02. A PASSIONATE CYCLIST
Egbert Buursink
Director of Chalet Royalp and cycling enthusiast, Egbert welcomes guests with professional hospitality and genuine cycling enthusiasm. He knows the region's routes intimately and is happy to share his local knowledge, from the best climbs to hidden cafés along the way. Thanks to his passion, the hotel is committed to offering cyclists the best possible experience, with tailor-made services: personalized route suggestions, high-end facilities in the bike room, and attentive support before and after each ride, to ensure that every stay is both comfortable and inspiring.
03. OUR SERVICES DESIGNED FOR CYCLISTS
At Chalet RoyAlp, every detail is designed with cyclists in mind. Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or a week of training, you'll enjoy five-star comfort combined with professional cycling support.
Workshop & Secure storage space
Our dedicated bike room provides a safe and professional environment for storing and maintaining your equipment. Equipped with video surveillance and a full Park Tool workshop, it is designed to combine practicality and peace of mind. A washing station is also available to keep your bike in perfect condition.
Sports nutrition
For optimal performance and recovery, KeFORMA professional sports nutrition products (energy bars, gels, electrolytes, and recovery drinks) are also available for purchase directly at the hotel, ideal for fueling up during your bike rides or replenishing your energy after exercise.
Laundry service
Your cycling gear can be washed after every ride, so it's fresh and ready for the next day. Simply hand it over to our team: we'll take care of the rest.
Spa & Recovery
After a day in the saddle, recovery is an integral part of the experience. Enjoy full access to the RoyAlp Spa & Wellness Center, including a swimming pool, sauna, steam room, fitness area, and professional sports massages on request.
Meals tailored to cyclists
The RoyAlp kitchen team understands the needs of those who spend their days in the saddle. From energizing breakfasts to light and restorative dinners, meals can be tailored to support both performance and recovery. At Le Rochegrise, guests enjoy seasonal dishes prepared with local ingredients and the care reflected in the "Fait Maison" label. After a day out, BeAr's Bar offers a comfortable setting to relax with a drink or snack. In summer, Le Refuge du RoyAlp invites guests to enjoy outdoor barbecues facing the Vaud Alps as they are bathed in the last rays of daylight. Here, nutrition remains a pleasure, guided by balance, quality, and the hotel's warm hospitality.
Guided tours & Local expertise
Discover the Vaud Alps alongside our local professional cycling guides, who tailor each outing to your level and goals. Whether you're looking for scenic endurance rides or challenging alpine climbs, they'll take you on the most beautiful routes and to the region's most secret corners.Prefer to ride independently? Explore our Komoot collection "Best of Villars by Chalet RoyAlp," which offers a selection of road and gravel routes for all levels, with downloadable GPX files and detailed profiles.
Late check-out
A late check-out can be arranged subject to availability, allowing you to enjoy one last stroll and a smooth transition before your departure. If extending your stay is not possible, guests are invited to take full advantage of the spa and wellness facilities to refresh and relax before departure.
Premium bike rental
For absolute comfort, Chalet RoyAlp offers high-end bike rentals through trusted local partners. Choose from a selection of high-performance road bikes, gravel bikes, or electric bikes. All are perfectly maintained, adjusted to your needs, and ready for your alpine adventures. Helmets, pedals, and accessories are included, and reservations can be made directly through our concierge service.
04. Exceptional routes starting from the Chalet Royalp
The Villars region is a real playground for cyclists. From iconic Alpine passes to shorter loops and picturesque gravel trails, there is something for everyone, from seasoned climbers to occasional adventurers.
During their stay, cyclists are spoiled for choice. This collection, designed for Chalet RoyAlp by local guides Alain Rumpf and Luca Gadotti, offers eight inspiring loops that showcase the best of the region.
Each loop starts and ends either at Chalet RoyAlp or at the UCI World Cycling Center in Aigle, where parking is available.
UCI Granfondo Switzerland
Road – 157 km – 3,640 m elevation gain
A world-class endurance challenge, starting and finishing at Chalet RoyAlp. The UCI Granfondo Switzerland loop connects the Col de la Croix, Col du Pillon, Mittelberg, and Col des Mosses for an unforgettable alpine experience. Expect long climbs, spectacular descents, and 3,600 meters of elevation gain amid breathtaking scenery. An alpine epic that tests your strength, pacing, and mental fortitude, right on the doorstep of RoyAlp.
See on Komoot
See on Komoot
Sanetsch Pass
Road – 124 km – 2,920 m elevation gain
A hidden gem in the Swiss Alps, the Col du Sanetsch is one of the most spectacular and little-known climbs in the country. The loop starts in Villars, descends through Bex and the Rhône Valley before climbing through the vineyards of Valais towards a wild alpine landscape. With over 1,700 meters of continuous climbing, impressive hairpin bends, and views of the Tsanfleuron Glacier, this route is a real test of endurance and reward. To complete the adventure, take the cable car down to Gsteig, return via the Col du Pillon, and finish with the Col de la Croix to return to Villars.
See on Komoot
See on Komoot
The Mosses Pass
Road – 117 km – 1,560 m elevation gain
A gentle, scenic loop that celebrates one of the most iconic climbs in French-speaking Switzerland. From the UCI World Cycling Center in Aigle, the route winds along quiet roads, passing through vineyards above Lake Geneva and the rolling countryside of Gruyères before tackling the steady climb up the Col des Mosses. A long, flowing descent brings you back to Aigle, perfect for an early season ride combining history, beauty, and pace.
See on Komoot
See on Komoot
La Croix, Mosses, Pillon
Road – 117 km – 1,560 m elevation gain
The ultimate loop in the Vaud Alps, connecting the Col de la Croix, Col des Mosses, and Col du Pillon for a full day in the mountains. From Villars, you will climb through forests and pastures, cross the elegant Gstaad valley and return via Aigle and the vineyards of Bex. A demanding but unforgettable route, showcasing the best of Swiss mountain biking.
See on Komoot
See on Komoot
Col de la Croix, Gravel version
Gravel – 51.4 km – 1,390 m elevation gain
A true alpine gravel adventure capturing the essence of the Vaud Alps, future hosts of the 2029 UCI Gravel World Championships. Starting in Villars, this demanding loop climbs to the Col de la Croix via forest trails, alpine pastures, and scenic gravel roads. Pass through Taveyanne, Les Chaux, and Solalex, with perfect stops along the way. A mix of challenge, exploration, and pure alpine beauty. Gravel at its best.
See on Komoot
See on Komoot
The Hills of Chablais
Road – 39.7 km – 550 m elevation gain
A varied and scenic loop starting from the UCI World Cycling Center in Aigle, ideal for building endurance or enjoying a short, structured ride. Five rolling climbs: La Pelouse, La Pâtissière, Le Bévieux, Antagnes, and Verschiez. Adds rhythm and challenge without the demands of a full day in the mountains. Quiet roads, vineyards, and sweeping alpine views offer a pleasant mix of effort and relaxation, returning to the starting point, café and velodrome included.
See on Komoot
See on Komoot
Down and Up
Road – 51.5 km – 1,080 m elevation gain
A balanced round trip from Chalet RoyAlp to the Rhône Valley, ideal for a half-day outing. The descent turns into a shaded climb through Les Plans-sur-Bex, a peaceful alternative to the main road. Forests, meadows, and gentle switchbacks lead slowly to Gryon, with a well-deserved stop at the Charlet bakery in Barboleuse on the way back. A perfect blend of effort, calm, and alpine atmosphere.
See on Komoot
See on Komoot
Chablais Flat Loop
Road – 32.2 km – 40 m elevation gain
A relaxed and picturesque loop through the Chablais countryside, ideal for families, beginners, or an easy recovery ride. Starting and finishing at the UCI World Cycling Center in Aigle, on small roads and the Rhône cycle path, with very little elevation gain. Enjoy the open views, a break by Lake Geneva, and a coffee or meal at the center after your ride. Calm, flat, and full of charm, this is a great way to savor the Alps at a leisurely pace.
See on Komoot
See on Komoot
05. Our guides and ambassadors
cyclists
Expertise on every outing – Our guides tailor each route to your level and goals, whether it's a challenging alpine climb, a scenic endurance ride, or a more leisurely loop through villages and vineyards.
Multilingual and professional – Our team speaks English, French, Italian, German, and Dutch, so every international guest feels at home on the road. All are trained and certified, with a particular focus on safety and quality of experience.
Private or group tours – Choose the intimacy of a private guide for a fully customized outing, or join a small group to share the experience with other cycling enthusiasts.
Alain Rumpf
Born in Geneva and based in Gryon, Alain is a former elite cyclist who worked for over 20 years with the UCI in Aigle. Today, he shares his expertise as a guide, photographer, and route designer, drawing on decades of experience in cycling. Whether it's a legendary pass like the Col de la Croix or a gravel adventure through quiet valleys, Alain knows every corner of the Vaud Alps. Friendly, multilingual, and deeply rooted in the cycling community, he allows guests to discover the region like insiders.
Luca Gadotti
Originally from Turin, Italy, Luca has lived in Gryon for over 15 years and has made the Vaud Alps his cycling playground. A lifelong cyclist with experience in both road and mountain biking, he runs Bike O'Clock, a local meeting place for repairs, advice, and guided tours. Luca enjoys creating routes that balance challenge and enjoyment, combining iconic mountain passes with hidden gems. His easygoing personality and strong local roots make him a valued riding companion, whatever the cyclists' level.
Lillie Rumpf
Certified by Swiss Cycling, Lillie is a professional guide based in Gryon, where she runs Cycling Heidi. She offers road and gravel rides, always tailored to the pace and level of her guests. Her guiding style combines technical advice—climbing, descending, riding with confidence—with a friendly and supportive atmosphere. Passionate about women's cycling, she often creates tailor-made experiences for women and small groups. Off the bike, she enriches each outing with gourmet stops and a warm personal touch.
06. Cycling events in the region
The Vaud Alps are not only a destination for cycling. They are also the setting for some of the most exciting events in the sport. From professional races that attract the world's best riders to amateur events where everyone can test their skills, the calendar is packed with opportunities to cycle and enjoy the thrill of the race.
Tour of Romandie
Every spring, this prestigious WorldTour race showcases the region's spectacular climbs and alpine landscapes. The stages often pass close to Villars and feature decisive mountain finishes that test even the best climbers. For Royalp guests, this is a unique opportunity to ride the same roads in the morning and then watch the pros compete there in the afternoon.
Tour of Switzerland
Switzerland's biggest stage race frequently crosses the Vaud Alps and attracts the biggest names in cycling. Famous for its high-altitude climbs and spectacular time trials, it is a major national sporting event. Guests can combine guided tours and VIP experiences to fully enjoy the atmosphere.
The Vaud Alps Challenge
A digital cycling challenge designed to introduce participants to the region's most beautiful mountain passes, from the legendary Col de la Croix to hidden gems such as Solalex. Thousands of routes are recorded each year, and participants take part in a seasonal draw offering prestigious prizes. A fun way to add a touch of excitement to your stay at Royalp.
The Majestics – Villars
A unique UCI race weekend, open to amateur cyclists of all levels, bringing together three complementary events in an exceptional alpine setting. The program includes a time trial, a Granfondo qualifying event for the UCI Granfondo World Championships, and a gravel race qualifying event for the UCI Gravel World Championships. Together, these events offer a rare combination of competition, accessibility, and alpine terrain.
Staying at the Royalp means being at the heart of the action, whether you want to ride, cycle alongside the pros, or simply enjoy VIP hospitality while admiring the best of world cycling on your doorstep.
