A Golden Escape: Chasing Rapeseed Blooms in La Sarraz, Switzerland

There’s something almost surreal about standing in a sea of **golden rapeseed flowers**, their vibrant yellow stretching endlessly under a Swiss sky. Just a short trip from Lausanne, the countryside near **La Sarraz** transforms into a painter’s dream every spring (late April to early May). Here’s how I spent a dreamy day wandering these radiant fields—plus tips for your own visit! --- ### **🌼 Morning: Arriving in La Sarraz** This tiny medieval village in **Vaud** is straight out of a storybook, with its 11th-century **Château de La Sarraz** perched on a hill. But today, I skipped the history (for now) and headed straight for the **rolling farmlands** just outside town. **Pro Tip:** Rent a bike in La Sarraz or take the **train to Croy-Romainmôtier** (the next stop) for even more scenic fields along the way. --- ### **📸 The Rapeseed Fields: A Golden Wonderland** The moment I turned down a quiet country road, **endless waves of yellow** appeared. The rapeseed (or *colza* in French) was in full bloom, buzzing with bees and smelling faintly sweet—like honey and fresh grass. **Best Spots I Found:** - **Route de La Sarraz à Croy**: A backroad with uninterrupted views of fields + the Jura Mountains. - **Near Ferme de la Chapelle**: A working farm with photogenic barns as backdrops. - **Chemin des Verneyres**: A dirt path where the flowers spill right up to the edge. **Photo Tips:** ✔ Wear **white or blue** to pop against the yellow. ✔ Go early (sunrise) or late afternoon for soft, golden light. ✔ Respect the crops—stay on paths and never pick the flowers! --- ### **🏰 Afternoon: Exploring La Sarraz** After frolicking like a Swiss Heidi, I circled back to the village for: - **Château de La Sarraz**: A fairytale castle with exhibits on knights and local history. - **Le Café du Château**: A cozy spot for a *café crème* and slice of apricot tart. - **Horse Museum**: Quirky but charming (Switzerland’s only museum dedicated to horses!). --- ### **🚶♀️ Bonus Walk: The "Sentier des Blés" (Wheat Path)** For more pastoral vibes, I followed this **2.5km trail** through wheat fields and pastures. The views of the Alps on a clear day? *Magnifique.* --- ### **🌅 Sunset Picnic by the Fields** I packed a simple dinner—local **Gruyère, fresh baguette, and a bottle of Chasselas wine**—and found a quiet hilltop to watch the sun dip behind the Jura, turning the rapeseed into a glowing carpet. --- ### **Final Thoughts** La Sarraz’s rapeseed fields are a fleeting (but unforgettable) spring spectacle. Pair them with the village’s medieval charm, and you’ve got the perfect Swiss countryside day trip—no crowds, just peace and golden beauty. **Have you seen rapeseed blooms elsewhere? Share your favorite flower fields below!** 🌾 *P.S. Combine this with a trip to nearby **Romainmôtier Abbey** for more idyllic Swiss vibes.*