The Col de Jaman, at 1,512 m between Vaud and Fribourg, opens the way into the Vaud Prealps above Montreux. From here you can set off on foot towards the Dent de Jaman and the nearby alpine pastures, with wide views over Lake Geneva and the Riviera.
Viewpoints & lookouts
Col de Jaman
Main highlights
- Starting point for the climb up the Dent de Jaman (1,875 m), with a 360° view from the summit
- Sweeping views over Lake Geneva from a 1,512 m pass between Vaud and Fribourg
- Restaurant Le Manoïre at the pass, with free parking and regional brasserie cuisine
Overview
The Col de Jaman lies in the Vaud Prealps at an altitude of 1,512 m, on the border between the cantons of Vaud and Fribourg. It forms a natural crossroads for several hiking routes and serves as the gateway to the Dent de Jaman.
This former cheese-making region retains its character thanks to the surrounding alpine pastures and pastoral traditions that are still practised today. The pass can be reached by car via a mountain road or by public transport, taking the train from Montreux to Les Avants.
"*" indicates required fields
Things to see and do
The main activity is the climb up the Dent de Jaman (1,875 m). The trail starts behind the Le Manoïre restaurant, crosses the forest for around thirty minutes and then reaches a scree field. The final ascent is technical : it requires sure footing and occasionally the use of your hands.
At the summit, the 360° view stretches over the Riviera, Lake Geneva and the neighbouring peaks, including the Rochers de Naye, the Merdasson and the Molard. The panorama over the lake is especially popular at sunset.
Other routes suit different levels. A trail from Les Avants offers views of Lake Geneva, while longer loops link several passes in the area. In winter, the area can be explored on snowshoes or ski touring from Les Avants, or on skis from the slopes of the Combe de Jaman and the Rochers de Naye.
Practical information
Access : narrow mountain road from Montreux or Les Avants, free parking at the Le Manoïre restaurant. MOB train to Les Avants, then on foot. The road is closed to vehicles in winter.
Suitable for : hikers with a reasonable level of fitness. The climb up the Dent is not suitable for young children or people prone to vertigo.
On site : Le Manoïre restaurant, and the Buvette de Jaman at 1,742 m, at the foot of the Dent.
Visiting tips
The best time to visit is from May to October depending on snow conditions, with autumn colouring the alpine pastures. Wear hiking boots, as the trails get slippery after rain, and bring warm clothing, water and a first-aid kit.
The pass is part of the selection Vevey and Montreux : gems of the Vaud Riviera.
Nearby attractions
- The Rochers de Naye, at 2,042 m, offer views over Lake Geneva and the Alps and can be reached by cogwheel train.
- The Chauderon Gorge, above Montreux, can be explored along a shaded trail punctuated by stairways.
- Chillon Castle is a medieval fortress set on the shores of Lake Geneva.
Report an error or complete the informations
Reviews about this place