Hiking in Haute-Savoie: 12 of the most beautiful mountain trails
Haute-Savoie, the jewel in the crown of the French Alps, offers an exceptional playground for hiking enthusiasts. With its crystal-clear lakes, majestic peaks and unspoilt valleys, this mountainous département offers breathtaking scenery. From the shores of Lake Annecy to the glaciers of Chamonix, via the imposing cirques of the Giffre massif, discover our selection of the 12 most beautiful walks to do in Haute-Savoie.
See also the Annecy guide :
- Visit Chamonix in 1 day: 22 things to do and see on foot
- 10 must-do activities in Chamonix
- Annecy’s 10 most beautiful beaches
- The 15 best places to swim around Annecy
- The most beautiful villages to discover in Savoie
- Top 10 culinary specialities in Annecy
- Discovering Lake Annecy, panorama of activities
- Top 10 best hotels to stay in Chamonix
1. Lac Blanc via La Flégère – Chamonix
A must for hikers in Haute-Savoie, Lac Blanc offers one of the most spectacular views of the Mont-Blanc massif. This intermediate-level hike starts from the top station of the Flégère cable car, at an altitude of 1,877 metres.
The trail winds through the Aiguilles Rouges nature reserve, offering exceptional panoramic views over the Chamonix valley. At the summit, at an altitude of 2,352 metres, Lac Blanc reveals its turquoise waters in a striking mineral setting. Facing you is Mont Blanc and the entire Aiguilles de Chamonix range.
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Duration: 3h30 round trip – Difference in altitude: 500m – Difficulty: Intermediate
2. La Tournette from the Col de l’Aulp – Annecy
Nicknamed the “throne of Annecy”, La Tournette rises to 2,351 metres and is the highest point in the Bornes massif. This demanding hike rewards walkers with breathtaking views of Lake Annecy and the surrounding Alps.
The route starts at Les Prés Ronds, on the Col de l’Aulp, and passes through a variety of Alpine landscapes. The last few metres to the summit are climbed using secure ladders, adding an adventurous dimension to the ascent. At the top, the panoramic view takes in Lake Annecy in its mountain setting.
To extend your discovery of the region, don’t hesitate to visit Annecy and its picturesque canals. The Venice of the Alps deserves a thorough exploration of its architectural treasures and historical heritage.
Duration: 6-7h round trip – Difference in altitude: 1,300m – Difficulty: Difficult
3. The Fer-à-Cheval circus – Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval
Classified as a Grand Site de France, the Fer-à-Cheval cirque is one of the most beautiful natural amphitheatres in the Alps. This family-friendly hike takes in an imposing setting shaped by glaciers, with around thirty waterfalls gushing down depending on the season.
The well-marked path runs alongside the Giffre torrent as far as “Bout du Monde”, where the waterfalls converge. The limestone cliffs rise to a height of almost 700 metres, creating a breathtaking natural spectacle. In spring, when the snow melts, the spectacle reaches its peak with the crash of waterfalls tumbling down the rock faces.
Duration: 4 hours round trip – Difference in altitude: 400m – Difficulty: Easy
4. Mont Veyrier from Annecy-le-Vieux
A veritable natural balcony overlooking Lake Annecy, Mont Veyrier offers one of the finest panoramic views in Haute-Savoie. This intermediate-level hike winds through beech and spruce forests before reaching the ridges.
The route crosses the Col du Pré Vernet and then climbs the Col des Sauts. At the summit, at an altitude of 1,291 metres, the panorama takes in the whole of Lake Annecy, the town and the surrounding mountains. From this exceptional vantage point, you can admire the “Venice of the Alps” from a unique angle.
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Duration: 5 hours round trip – Difference in altitude: 900m – Difficulty: Intermediate
5. Aiguillette d’Argentière
Located in the Aiguilles Rouges nature reserve, the Aiguillette d’Argentière offers a spectacular aerial hike. This route, which follows the GR of the Tour du Mont-Blanc, is for experienced hikers because of its tricky sections and iron railings.
The trail offers breathtaking views of the Chamonix valley and the Mont Blanc massif. The rocky passages and vertiginous sections add an Alpine dimension to this exceptional hike. The panoramic views from the summit are well worth the effort.
Duration: 6 hours round trip – Difference in altitude: 1,100m – Difficulty: Difficult
6. Lac Vert from Plaine Joux – Passy
Easily accessible from Plaine Joux, Lac Vert is an ideal family hike for discovering the beauty of Haute-Savoie. This listed natural site offers an unspoilt setting at the foot of the Fiz rocks, with a remarkable view of the Mont-Blanc massif.
The well-maintained path passes through a variety of Alpine landscapes before reaching this natural gem with its emerald waters. The lake, made famous by the series Kaamelott, is the perfect spot for a family picnic. Swimming is prohibited to preserve this fragile ecosystem.
Duration: 2h30 round trip – Difference in altitude: 300m – Difficulty: Easy
7. The Spanish Trail – Plateau des Glières
Steeped in history, the Spanish Trail on the Plateau des Glières combines natural discovery with historical remembrance. This trail crosses the French Resistance stronghold where the fighting took place in 1944, in an unspoilt Alpine setting.
The path winds through the alpine pastures of the plateau, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The National Resistance Monument marks this emblematic site in French history. This accessible walk combines contemplation of the Alpine landscapes with historical remembrance.
Duration: 3 hours round trip – Difference in altitude: 200m – Difficulty: Easy
8. The Angon waterfall from Talloires
This family hike from the shores of Lake Annecy leads to one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Haute-Savoie. The route passes through shady undergrowth, flower-filled meadows and charming Savoyard villages.
The gradual ascent through the forest offers magnificent views of Lake Annecy and the Dents de Lanfon. The 60-metre-high Angon waterfall is the highlight of this refreshing walk. Autumn is a particularly beautiful time of year for this trail, with its flamboyant foliage.
Duration: 3 hours round trip – Difference in altitude: 400m – Difficulty: Easy
9. Lac Bénit from Mont-Saxonnex
Nestling at the foot of the Bargy mountain range, Lac Bénit offers a peaceful Alpine setting that is accessible to families. This easy hike crosses the ski slopes of Mont-Saxonnex before reaching this little lakeside gem at an altitude of 1,451 metres.
The well-marked path climbs gradually through alpine pastures. Arriving at the lake, hikers discover an exceptional panorama of the Arve Valley and surrounding mountains. The imposing limestone cliffs of the Bargy dominate this unspoilt setting, creating an atmosphere of mountain serenity.
Duration: 3 hours round trip – Difference in altitude: 450m – Difficulty: Easy
10. Le roc de Chère – Talloires
The Roc de Chère nature reserve, located between Menthon-Saint-Bernard and Talloires, offers an exceptional forest walk overlooking Lake Annecy. This shady trail is perfect for hot summer days and family outings.
The well-marked trail passes through a forest rich in biodiversity before reaching a number of scenic lookouts. These vantage points offer unique views of Lake Annecy and its unspoilt shores. The ecological richness of this nature reserve makes it an ideal site for observing Alpine flora and fauna.
Duration: 2h30 round trip – Difference in altitude: 300m – Difficulty: Easy
11. Mont Charvin via the Col des Porthets
This demanding alpine hike leads to the summit of Mont Charvin, at an altitude of 2,409 metres. Reserved for experienced hikers, it offers exceptional panoramic views of the Mont-Blanc, Aravis and Beaufortain massifs.
The route starts in the hamlet of Tournance and gradually climbs up the steep mountain pastures to the Mont Charvin lake. The climb to the Col des Porthets and then the summit takes you through some magnificent Alpine scenery. At the summit, the panoramic view takes in a large part of the French Alps, from the Pointe d’Orsière to the Tête de l’Aulp.
Duration: 7 hours round trip – Difference in altitude: 1,400m – Difficulty: Difficult
12. The Rouget waterfall – Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval
Nicknamed the “Queen of the Alps”, the Rouget waterfall is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Haute-Savoie. This accessible hike leads to this 90-metre-high natural wonder, nestling in a setting of greenery and rock.
The path winds its way up through the woods, offering glimpses of the surrounding mountains. The waterfall gradually reveals itself in all its splendour, tumbling down the rock faces in an impressive crash. This exceptional natural site perfectly illustrates the wild beauty of the French Alps.
Duration: 3 hours round trip – Difference in altitude: 441m – Difficulty: Easy
In conclusion, these 12 walks reveal all the diversity and beauty of Haute-Savoie. From crystal-clear lakes to breathtaking peaks, spectacular waterfalls and grandiose cirques, each route offers a unique experience in this exceptional region. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, a lover of panoramic views or an enthusiast for natural heritage, Haute-Savoie unfurls its Alpine treasures for unforgettable adventures. Don’t hesitate to visit Annecy to complete your discovery of this exceptional region.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to go hiking in Haute-Savoie?
The ideal period is from June to October, with optimum conditions in July and August. September and October offer magnificent scenery in autumn colours, while June is the time to discover Alpine flora in full bloom.
What equipment do you need for your hikes in Haute-Savoie?
Equipment adapted to the mountains is essential: hiking boots, layered clothing, sun protection, map and compass, first-aid kit and sufficient provisions. For high-altitude hikes, bring warm clothing, even in summer.
How do I get to the starting points for these walks?
Most of the walks are accessible by car from the main towns in Haute-Savoie. Annecy and Chamonix have good rail links and local public transport. Some routes require the use of lifts, such as the Flégère cable car.
Are these tours suitable for families with children?
There are several walks suitable for families: Lac Vert, Cascade d’Angon, Lac Bénit and Roc de Chère. These routes offer moderate gradients and durations suited to young hikers, while offering points of interest that will captivate their attention.
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