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From Challex to Dardagny: the Franco-Swiss border through the vineyards

Hike open all year round.
Set off on a family walk through vineyards and woodland, crossing the border. An ideal getaway for young and old alike, combining nature, relaxation and enchanting landscapes.
Discover a family hike that takes you from Challex to Dardagny, along charming paths lined with vineyards. Walk through sun-drenched vineyards and let yourself be charmed by the tranquillity of the landscape. The route offers views of the Rhône and the Jura Mountains. At each stage, between the undergrowth and open fields, nature reveals itself in all its splendour, whatever the season!A charming getaway that combines wine discoveries and wide open spaces.
From Bois de Chancy to the banks of the Rhône

A family walk in the Chancy woods (Geneva, Switzerland) leading to the banks of the Rhône. There are some lovely surprises to discover along the way, such as a suspension bridge, views of the Jura and Vuache mountains, and streams. The perfect hike for hot summer days!
The high peaks from Thoiry

Hike accessible from 1 April to 30 November. Set off on a challenging and scenic loop through the peaks of Reculet and Crêt de la Neige, the highest in the Jura mountains. This demanding circuit offers a wide variety of landscapes: Jura forests, open ridges and vast mountain pastures. From the heights, enjoy a 360° panorama of Mont Blanc, Lake Geneva, Geneva and the Valserine Valley.The route crosses the Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park and the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve: dogs are not allowed, even on a leash. Please respect the regulations in force to preserve this remarkable environment.
Le Reculet from Tiocan

This is a very popular hike to the Croix du Reculet, the second highest peak in the Jura, offering superb views of Geneva, Lake Geneva, Mont Blanc and the entire Alps in good weather.
For geocachers, there are a few caches along the hike.
Le Reculet via Le Rosset, Le Gralet, and the Grotte de la Marie du Jura

Here is a second circular route to reach the Reculet (the first route can be seen here). You will be able to enjoy numerous views of the Valserine Valley and Lake Geneva (including Geneva and Mont Blanc). I can only say one thing: the landscapes are truly magnificent.
Fort l'écluse loop via the Belvédère de Léaz

Fort l'Ecluse, a fortified military structure dating from the 16th and 17th centuries.
Léaz viewpoint.
Panoramic view of the Rhône valley.
The Jura Mountains via Le Gralet and Menthières from Chézery-Forens

Starting from Chézery-Forens, I propose a lovely route to the Monts Jura between Le Gralet and Menthières. On the whole, it's a relatively easy route in a wooded environment punctuated by a few open spots offering some fine views.
Col de Menthières, La Pelaz et le Chalet du Sac

Les alpages de Menthières et les paysages du chalet du Sac offrent de grands espaces pour une évasion au cœur des Monts Jura.
Entre forêt et alpages, ce parcours varié ouvert d'avril à novembre, s'ouvre sur de superbes panoramas. Le sentier débute depuis le parking face au télésiège du Rendu, longe le parc accrobranche avant de monter vers le Col de Menthières. Il passe par des lieux emblématiques servant de repères pour les randonneurs : la "Grange Velue" et le "Chalet du Sac", qui offrent des vues panoramiques sur Valserhône, le plateau de Retord et les Alpes. Les chiens, même tenus en laisse, sont interdits dans cet espace situé en Réserve Naturelle.
Crêt de Chalam via Montagne des Moines

Here is a circular route to reach Crêt de Chalam from Chézery-Forens: the outward journey follows a little-known route via Montagne des Moines (you won't meet many people). The return journey follows the "classic" route.
The Étrès waterfall from Forens

Here is an accessible and enjoyable walk, perfect for enjoying summer days in the shade of trees, to the rhythm of a refreshing stream. The trail passes through peaceful, green surroundings and leads you to the Cascade de l'Etrès waterfall, nestled discreetly in the landscape. A well-deserved refreshing break. A simple and rejuvenating outing in nature to share with your family.
Crêt de la Goutte via Le Sac and Varambon

Tour of the chalets of the Col du Sac and Varambon via the Crêtes du Sorgia - 360° view at the Crêt de la Goutte with orientation table to discover the Monts d'Ain, Lake Geneva and its water jet, the start of the Jura mountain range, the Swiss and French Alps including the Matterhorn in good weather and the majestic Mont Blanc.
Crêt de Chalam from Chézery-Forens

The aim of this hike is to reach Crêt de Chalam (1,545 m) from Chézery-Forens, covering a circular route of approximately 14 km. Although the path to the summit is a little steep, the return journey is gentler but longer.
The Crêt de la Neige loop via La Calame, starting from Crozet

This challenging trail takes you to the highest point of the Jura mountains! It combines woodland, open ridges and superb views of the Lake Geneva basin and Mont Blanc. A beautiful immersion in varied environments, between light and shade. In summer, the Fierney cable car (open on certain days) provides easy access to the route without detracting from the richness of the landscape.
The route runs through the Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park and crosses part of the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve. Dogs are not allowed, even on a leash. Please respect the regulations in force to preserve this environment (see the practical information section).
From Crozet to Crêt de la Neige, at the top of the Jura peaks

Open from 1 April to 30 November, depending on snow conditions.Set out to conquer the highest peak in the Jura mountains on a varied hike through forests, open ridges and superb panoramic views of the Lake Geneva basin and, on clear days, Mont Blanc. The route alternates between shade and light, offering a beautiful immersion in the Haute Chaîne du Jura.In summer, on certain days, the Fierney cable car provides easy access to the route while preserving the essence of the landscape.The route crosses the Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park and part of the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve, a protected area: please respect the regulations.Dogs are not permitted, even on a leash.For information on the rules in force, see the link in the practical information section.
The Lynx route from Crozet

A perfect forest walk for families, combining discovery, observation and learning about nature. A special moment to share, filled with curiosity, relaxation and wonder in the heart of the woods.
This 2.5 km circular themed trail (106 m elevation gain) crosses the forest alongside downhill mountain bike trails — watch out for cyclists! Easy and enjoyable, it is dotted with information panels about the Eurasian lynx, making for an informative and fun outing for the whole family.
The water ridges

Plateau of the Jura mountain range, overlooking the valleys of Bellegarde sur Valserine and Fort l'écluse. The highest point of the Crêt de la Goutte offers a 360° panorama of the Jura Natural Park and Lake Geneva on the Geneva side, with a horizon dominated by the Alps, including Mont Blanc.
The Cirque des Avalanches

After leaving the village of Champfromier and all its amenities, walk through pastures and forest paths. The highlight of this circular: the magnificent panorama from Les Avalanches over the Jura mountains.
Crêt de la Neige

The Crêt de la Neige, the highest point in the Jura at 1,720 metres, offers an exceptional view of Lake Geneva and the Alps, with Mont Blanc as a bonus.
The Crêt de Chalam

Short hike with magnificent views of Reculet, Crêt de la Neige and Mont Blanc (in clear weather).
Moderator's addition on 07/08/2021: Since this hike was created, the trail for the return seems to have deteriorated and some hikers have preferred to do the round trip. See reviews
The Gorges and Pertes de la Valserine

A pleasant walk along the Valserine Gorges, from Les Pertes to Bellegarde. Very popular in hot weather as much of the route is in the woods and always close to the river.
Please note that a municipal by-law dated 11 April 2024 prohibits continuing the hike beyond point 5 along the banks of the Valsorine (footbridges closed)
Les Pertes de la Valserine and much more
This is a long hike that allows you to visit and admire not only the Pertes de la Valserine area, but also to walk along the banks of this river, which has profoundly shaped the landscape over the centuries and enabled industrial activity in the 19th century.
Lélex - Mijoux

From Lélex to Mijoux via the Haute Chaîne: the first stage of the two-day "On the roof of the Jura mountains" hike.
From the wild Valserine Valley to the balcony of Lake Geneva, this route immerses you in the authenticity of the Haut-Jura. As you cross the Hautes Combes, you will be struck by the raw beauty of the wide open spaces, the silence of the deep forests and the open horizon of the plateaus. The trail climbs gradually, revealing exceptional panoramic views of Mont Blanc and the entire Alpine range. A life-size immersion in a land of traditions and high-altitude landscapes.Good to know – Protected areaPart of the route crosses the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve, which is subject to specific regulations:Dogs are not allowed, even on a leash.Camping in tents is prohibited.Please respect these rules to preserve the richness of this exceptional environment.
Lélex - Mijoux

First stage of the 3-day, 2-night Crêts en Combes hiking tour.Starting from Lélex, this circular route combines the main GTJ route with the alternative route via Mijoux and the Col de la Faucille.The crossing of the Hautes-Combes jurassiennes, the Valserine valley and the ridges of the Haute Chaine du Jura promise breathtaking landscapes. On one side, the view overlooks the ridges, on the other, it overlooks Lake Geneva and the Alps. In the heart of the Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park and partly in the Haute-Chaîne Nature Reserve, this hike takes place in a preserved natural area.
Le Crêt de la Neige via Les Brulat
A less frequented and less direct approach to the highest point in the Jura than the traditional routes. Once you reach the ridge, you'll find yourself back among people, and the descent offers several options depending on the ski slopes.
Les hauts sommets du massif du Jura depuis Lélex

Ce tour propose un parcours varié, et exigeant, depuis les rives de la Valserine jusqu’aux plus hauts sommets du Jura. Un sublime panorama s’étend sur les Alpes, le Léman et les montagnes jurassiennes, s’offrant aux randonneurs dans un cadre préservé.
Praticable d'avril à novembre, le chemin débute depuis le village de Lélex et part en direction du Pont de la Fruitière et du Niaizet. Il se poursuit en longeant la Valserine en fond de vallée et passe par sa tourbière. Une flore remarquable y pousse aux beaux jours. , avant d'entamer l'ascension des Monts Jura et du Reculet (1719m). Une croix de 1600 kg y fut hissée en 1892 par quatre habitants de Thoiry. Le sentier se poursuit jusqu'au Crêt de la Neige, point culminant du massif, à 1720 m. Avant de redescendre dans le village de Lélex, remarquez aux abords du sentier les vestiges d'anciennes constructions, qui témoignent de l'activité humaine dans les Monts Jura et de sa tradition alpagiste.
Crêt de Chalam from La Pesse

A beautiful winter snowshoe hike.
Once you reach the summit, which looks a bit like a sugar loaf (1,545 m), you will discover a 360° panorama (the Haut Jura mountain range and, of course, Mont Blanc in good weather).
Please note that depending on snow conditions, there may be a risk of avalanches at the Crêt de Chalam.
Le Saleve - Pomier - Le Bois des Fées

Discover the Maison du Salève, the Chartreuse de Pomier and the mysterious Bois des Fées
An easy hike, even for children, that is both cultural and fun.
Around the Combe d'Orvaz

This is a fairly challenging circular trail around the Combe d'Orvaz: the main points of interest are the banks of the Sémine river and its waterfalls, the plateau around the Combe d'Évuaz, and then the Roches d'Orvaz and its cirque.
The Vuache from Chaumont

An easy walk with magnificent views of the Retord, Lake Geneva, Mont Blanc and the mountains around Lake Annecy.
Les Moussières - Lélex

The third and final stage of the 3-day, 2-night Crêts en combes hiking tour.
Starting from Lélex, this loop route combines the main GTJ route with the alternative route via Mijoux and the Col de la Faucille.
The crossing of the Hautes-Combes jurassiennes, the Valserine valley and the ridges of the Haute Chaine du Jura promise breathtaking landscapes. On one side, the view overlooks the ridges, on the other, it overlooks Lake Geneva and the Alps. In the heart of the Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park and partly in the Haute Chaîne Nature Reserve, the hike takes place in a preserved natural area.
The trail is marked with GR® (red and white) signs
Going up the Versoix river to Sauverny

Much of the walk takes place in the coolness of the forest and the Versoix river, ideal for hot summer days. When you leave the woods, in good weather, there are magnificent views of the Jura mountain range (the Aiguille de la Faucille and the Boule Blanc de la Dole are easily recognisable) and the Alps (Mont Blanc).