Moléson, a mountain full of activities
Moléson-sur-Gruyères, a small village situated 1,100 meters above sea level, overlooks the small medieval town of Gruyères and the “Les Marches” plain. The Moléson is the most popular mountain not only for its panoramic views of the Fribourg Prealps, but also for its funicular and cable railway which are accessible to all. The mountain caters for all tastes thanks to a wealth of recreational activities and is equally popular with mountaineers and day trippers both in winter especially for its well-known black ski slope and summer. In addition to traditional activities, more contemporary sports also attract visitors to the mountain, for example the Via Ferrata with permanent belays, the summer toboggan run, the grass karting, the bobsleighs and the mini-golf.
A breathtaking panorama unfolds from the summit at an altitude of 2,002 meters above sea level. An observatory containing the world’s largest telescope awaits stargazers. During the day the telescope provides a 360-degree panorama stretching from Lake Geneva to the Jura and from Mont-Blanc to the peaks of the Bernese Oberland. Experts offer introductions to night-time astronomy during which visitors can embark on a fascinating journey across thousands of light years. It is impossible to get any closer to the stars! Plan Francey and “La Pierre à Catillon” offer simple accommodation for visitors wishing to make the most of this experience.
Population Village Moléson-sur-Gruyères: 183 inhabitants
Municipality of Gruyères: 2,198 inhabitants
Area Municipality of Gruyères: 28 km2
Language French
Altitude Village: 1,100 m
Summit of the Moléson: 2’002 m
Key data 1963 – First winter season in Moléson-sur-Gruyères
2011 – Official opening of the new aerial ropeway
2014 – 50th Anniversary of Moléson
Tips
All year round
During summer the mountain railways also run on the Moléson on Friday and Saturday evenings, so there’s nothing to prevent visitors sharing a fondue in the panoramic restaurant as they contemplate the magnificent sunset. In winter, the funicular is also open on Saturday evenings to enjoy the offer “Funi-fondue” and eat at the restaurant Plan Francey. It is essential to book those exclusive offers in advance.
Summer
The cheese-dairy path between the Alpine pasture dairy in Moléson village and La Maison du Gruyère, the cheese-making museum in Pringy, is an entertaining and educational experience. The walk across meadows and through woods takes around two hours and affords plenty of opportunities to admire the Mount Moléson. Visitors who fancy a delicious meal en route, cooked on a wood-fired stove, will plan their walk to pass through Reybes, taking them to the cozy Les Mongerons Alpine hut (open from May to September).
Contact
Tourist office Moléson – Place de l’Aigle 6 – 1663 Moléson-sur-Gruyères
T+41 (0)26 921 85 00 – F+41 (0)26 921 85 09
E-mail: – www.moleson.ch