Loop at Mont Lachat starting from Bellevue

Access is by ski lift either from the departure point:
- saint-Gervais, via the Mont Blanc Tramway (TMB): get off at Bellevue station,
- les Houches via the Bellevue cable car: get off at La Chalette station.

(S/E) From Bellevue station, head east along the railway line and a ski lift to the north. Continue towards the Bellevue cable car station at La Chalette.

(1) Turn left. The path continues along a balcony with a permanent view of Les Houches and the Chamonix valley. One section is marked as tricky but is widely used by parents with young children. Join a pass at the foot of the Roche Fendue, at the Arandellys crossroads.

(2) Turn right to continue climbing along the balcony path, skirting Mont Lachat. Stay on this path to reach the Col du Mont Lachat and the TMB station.

(3) Pass behind the station, then turn right and continue to Mont Lachat.

(4) Now start the descent on the west ridge of Mont Lachat to the left of the orientation table. Continue and return to the initial crossroads at La Chalette.

(1) Follow the same route in reverse to return to Bellevue station (S/E).

There are no water sources but there are places to eat at Col de Voza and La Chalette.
The route can be done in both directions. The anti-clockwise direction is significantly more challenging.
In the TMB, try to sit on the right-hand side when climbing for the best views. It is possible to climb up to the Col du Mont Lachat. After the climb to Mont Lachat, it is best to descend in an anti-clockwise direction.

(S/E) Note: on the way back, you can reach the next stop at Col de Voza in about 30 minutes.
Ideally, do this on a day with clear skies to make the most of the distant views.