Aravis to Lake Annecy Hiking Tour

Arrive in an authentic Aravis village. Stay at a serene 3-star hotel in St Jean de Sixt with a pleasant view, featuring a pool and the option to explore the village.

This first day offers a gentle journey to the Confins plateau. Choose between two wonderful hikes. You can either complete a scenic loop through Tête du Danay (1731m), traversing Mouilles de la Perrière with stunning views of the Aravis range to the east, Mont Lachat de Chatillon, and the Bouchet valley. An alternative route via Pointe de Beauregard, passing by Lac de la Ferriaz and descending to La Clusaz through Le Planet.

Begin your adventure with a bus transfer (at your expense) to Lac des Confins, the starting point of your hike. Traverse the Annes pass (1721m), offering captivating views of the iconic Aravis summit, Pointe Percée (2750m). Wander through the high mountain pastures of the Confins plateau, leading to the picturesque Bouchet valley nestled beneath Pointe Percée (2750m) and Pointe du Roulletaz (2077m). The trail gracefully navigates the Borneronde pass and Annes pass (1721m). Enjoy a lunch break at the charming cottage at Annes' pass. Descend to the Chinaillon hamlet beneath the striking ridges of Pointes d’Almet, Grande Combe, and Pointe de Deux Heures. Expect a 6-hour hike covering 15km with a +800m and -850m elevation gain (short option: 5 hours, 14.5km, +600m, -650m).

Embark from Chinaillon, ascending to the enchanting Guillery chalets and onward to Col de la Colombière at 1607m. From the pass, two remarkable routes unfold. The more difficult goes to Pointe de Balafrasse. Here you navigate into the heart of the Bargy range, reaching Peyre Lake and Balafrasse Pass, culminating at Pointe de Balafrasse (2296m). Revel in panoramic views before descending the same route to Chinaillon. Covering 13km with a +/-1000m elevation. The easier route takes in the Tête d'Auferrand. Ascend beneath Pointe de la Botte to the alpine pastures of Tête d'Auferrand at 1981m. Traverse the ridge through Combe des Fours, descending to Aufferand farm before rejoining Chinaillon. This 13km journey boasts a +/-700m elevation.

Ascend along the Aiguille Verte ridge (2000m) to Lessy Lake. Revel in the splendid view from Aiguille Verte to the Aravis summit (Pointe Percée). Traverse Forclaz pass and descend to Mayse hamlet offering sheepfold, cottage, drinks, and snacks. The trek proceeds with an ascent to Planay pass between Roc des Tours and Roc des Charmieux, followed by a descent leading to the path connecting Mouilles, Tannaz, and Grand Bornan.

Expect a 6-hour and 45-minute walk covering 18km, with a +1070m ascent (no technical difficulties), and a -1450m descent. A delightful picnic spot awaits at Mayse chalet. Opt for a shorter walk (4 to 5 hours) with an optional route, featuring a +470m ascent and a -650m descent.

Commence the day with an early transfer to Montremont. From there hike to Nantets Pass(1426m). Then descend by the Dents de Lanfon path, reaching Talloires near the lake.

Enjoy a day on the lake to return to Annecy by taking the "omnibus" (not included), or take the bus (at your own expense) if you prefer to stay on land or the boat isn't running. Explore the charming old town's restaurants for a delightful dinner experience.

Depart at your leisure after breakfast or extend your stay in Annecy. Alternatively, embark on an optional hike: Take the regular bus towards Thones (7km to Col de Bluffy, the same route used on the 1st day to St Jean de Sixt). Ascend Mont Barret's ridge (1065m), traverse the smugglers pass (1054m), and reach Mont Baron for a captivating view (1254m). Follow the ridge to Mont Veyrier (1291m) before descending to Lake Annecy's shore. This 5-hour adventure involves a +735m ascent and a -920m descent.