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Culoz walks
Grand Colombier ridge from Culoz
Visorando Member
12.21 mi
+3,150 ft
-3,136 ft
8 hrs
Moderate
Departure from Culoz (Ain)
The ascent to the plateau and the Grand Colombier ridge through the snow follows an easy route, though it is relatively long due to the low starting altitude. The Grand Colombier offers a magnificent view over the Alps.
The Grand Colombier circuit from Fénestré
8.41 mi
+1,722 ft
-1,706 ft
5h 20
Moderate
Departure from Culoz (Ain)
A lovely hike at the foot of Mont Colombier, with panoramic views from the start and of Mont Blanc at the summit. Picturesque landscapes and pastures.
⚠️ 19/05/2026: Take care at this point (4)! Dangerous hike. Not recommended for children or those prone to vertigo. Read the reviews.
From Béon to Grand Colombier
15.19 mi
+5,174 ft
-5,194 ft
11h 30
Difficult
Departure from Béon (Ain)
The hike starts in Béon and aims to reach the summit of Grand Colombier (1,534 m) with a quasi-circular route. It can be classified as somewhat challenging due to the elevation gain and distance covered.
The ascent includes a few fairly steep slopes overall. Otherwise, there are no major difficulties (at most, it should be noted that orientation can be a problem around point (9) and that the markings are less precise at the end of the route).
Circular via Roche Percée and the Romagnieux viewpoint from Béon
5.52 mi
+2,060 ft
-2,073 ft
4h 20
Moderate
Departure from Béon (Ain)
A circular forest loop that is accessible in almost all seasons, running along the slopes of Grand Colombier and passing through an arch that you only discover at the last moment and a viewpoint over Culoz, Lac du Bourget and the surrounding mountains.
In (6), be sure to stay away from the paths leading to the Romagnieux farm.
See review dated 08/08/2022.
Chanduraz and La Roche Percée from Béon
7.60 mi
+3,369 ft
-3,392 ft
6h 25
Difficult
Departure from Béon (Ain)
This is a challenging route that will take you to Chanduraz, a remarkable viewpoint over Lake Bourget, the Rhône and the entire panorama around Culoz, passing through La Roche Percée. However, you will have to tackle a climb of over 1,000 metres, which is as difficult going up as it is coming down, to earn it.
The Lavours Marsh
1.99 mi
+16 ft
-16 ft
0h 55
Easy
Departure from Ceyzérieu (Ain)
A short walk to discover this Sensitive Natural Area, with 2 km on stilts. Numerous information panels and superb views of the Grand Colombier.
Circular in the Lavour Marsh
5.59 mi
+230 ft
-230 ft
2h 45
Easy
Departure from Ceyzérieu (Ain)
Circular trail exploring the Lavours Marsh and its nature reserve, via the boardwalk, then along the Séran river before climbing the Courbettes hill to return to Ceyzérieu.
Circuit from Pierre Noire to Chanaz
2.54 mi
+646 ft
-646 ft
1h 45
Moderate
Departure from Chanaz (Savoie)
A short walk for a half-day outing from the tourist village of Chanaz. In the village, directional signs clearly indicate the Circuit de Pierre Noire.
Lovely viewpoint over the village and its canal, the Rhône river developments, Mont Colombier, etc.
From Chanaz to Vions or from the Rhône to the Commanderie
7.77 mi
+453 ft
-453 ft
4h 00
Easy
Departure from Chanaz (Savoie)
An autumn walk in the Avant Pays Savoyard, to see something other than mountains, even if Mont Colombier is omnipresent throughout the hike.
Chanaz - Pomey circular
5.02 mi
+1,155 ft
-1,145 ft
3h 20
Easy
Departure from Chanaz (Savoie)
An easy walk with beautiful views of Chanaz, then Lac du Bourget on the Chemin de Pomey.
Mont Landard
8.27 mi
+1,558 ft
-1,545 ft
5h 10
Moderate
Departure from Chanaz (Savoie)
A pleasant, easy hike through the Mont Landard forest and the Montagnin vineyards.
Grand Colombier via Chanduraz
5.72 mi
+1,588 ft
-1,562 ft
4h 00
Moderate
Departure from Virieu-le-Petit (Ain)
This little-used route offers an original approach to the Grand Colombier, with a rocky final ascent that adds a bit of spice to the hike! Nevertheless, it is manageable for the average hiker. The Chanduraz promontory, overlooking Lake Bourget, is well worth the effort... Not to mention the view from the Granges du Colombier.
Circular loop on the Montagne du Gros Foug
3.87 mi
+1,234 ft
-1,227 ft
2h 50
Easy
Departure from Serrières-en-Chautagne (Savoie)
A walk for Sunday afternoon.
This hike takes place on the western slope of Gros Foug mountain above the village of Serrières-en-Chautagne. It features various themes: tuff quarry, mountain land restoration, vineyards. Add to that the presence of the Rhône and Mont Colombier.
Excellent signposting and numerous directional signs.
The Lac de Barterand circular from Vongnes
8.50 mi
+1,083 ft
-1,070 ft
4h 50
Moderate
Departure from Vongnes (Ain)
An easy route to discover the Bas Bugey. Pass by Lac de Barterand, a small, refreshing lake (fishing and swimming), Marignieu with its wines, honey and an almost 800-year-old chestnut tree, and the nearby Marais de Lavours with its discovery trail. Not forgetting Vongnes, its Bugiste wine cellar and the Ecomuseum on the trades of the vine and wine.
Mont-Clergeon and Grande Cuve
5.75 mi
+938 ft
-951 ft
3h 30
Moderate
Departure from Ruffieux (Savoie)
Mont Clergeon, with its summit at over 1,000 metres, is not one of the most popular peaks in Savoie. However, it offers a 360° view of the Rhône valley and the Bauges, Aravis and Mont Blanc mountains. The route is mostly shaded.
Route through the Chautagne Forest and ascent of the Mollard de Vions
14.85 mi
+643 ft
-653 ft
7h 25
Difficult
Departure from Chindrieux (Savoie)
A lovely walk through the Chautagne State Forest (poplar groves), heading for the Mollard de Vions and the Port of Chatillon. The short, steep climb up to the Mollard de Vions offers panoramic views from the Canon de Vions site over the Rhône, the Grand Colombier and the Lavours Marshes plain. During the descent towards Vions, there’s a viewpoint overlooking Lac du Bourget and the Croix du Nivolet. From Vions, it’s possible to continue on a round trip to Chanaz and the lock on the Canal de Savières, but the entire section along the Rhône has very few shaded areas.
Route from La Rochetaillée to Chindrieux
4.11 mi
+1,070 ft
-1,047 ft
2h 50
Moderate
Departure from Chindrieux (Savoie)
Short midday route, with the Croix de Beauvoir viewpoint and the Rochetaillée pass.
Le Grand Colombier
9.86 mi
+3,281 ft
-3,271 ft
7h 25
Difficult
Departure from Virieu-le-Petit (Ain)
This is a fairly strenuous hike, but without any major difficulties. The climb is very steady, with no respite. From the Grand Colombier, there are beautiful 360° views.
Mont Clergeon from the Col du Sapenay
8.80 mi
+1,362 ft
-1,345 ft
5h 15
Moderate
Departure from Cessens (Savoie)
This hike will allow you to discover the natural site of the Grande Cuve and then take you to the summit of Mont Clergeon and its orientation table. You can also discover the traditional habitat of these mountains in the hamlet of Montclergeon.
Artemare circular loop
9.24 mi
+1,348 ft
-1,348 ft
5h 25
Moderate
Departure from Artemare (Ain)
A hike not to be missed: the 18 wonders! You’ll discover the Ferlioz massif, with the Madone and its sharp limestone pavement. You’ll enjoy an incredible view from the Cerveyrieu Waterfall, follow the River Séran and marvel at the Thurignin potholes. And if these wonders aren’t enough, head towards the village of Vieu and its beautiful church. Cross another lovely forest before turning off at the source of the Adoue and admiring the curiosity that is the source of the Groin. Finally, you’ll discover a beautiful castle upon arriving in Artemare.
Sharp limestone pavement, waterfall, resurgence and canyons around Artemare
9.73 mi
+1,280 ft
-1,273 ft
5h 35
Moderate
Departure from Artemare (Ain)
This loop allows you to visit several characteristic sites in this area where the folds of the Jura meet the alluvial plain: the sharp limestone pavement of Fierloz, the Cerveyrieu waterfall, the Turignin Gorges on the Séran, the sources of the Groin and the chasms it forms. In high water, the route can be slippery but it is impressive.
Loop between the lakes and the Séran river, starting from Saint-Martin-de-Bavel
23.93 mi
+2,664 ft
-2,651 ft
3 hrs
Moderate
Departure from Saint-Martin-de-Bavel (Ain)
A pleasant ride on an electric mountain bike.Waterfall, Marmites des Géants, lake and castle are all on the agenda.
Lake Barterand
5.10 mi
+1,145 ft
-1,119 ft
3h 20
Moderate
Departure from Cressin-Rochefort (Ain)
A peaceful hike on the border between Ain and Savoie. From the start, there is a beautiful view of the Rhône riverbed. Further on, you will see Lac de Barterand, bordered by unexpected sculptures in the rock. A short climb towards the flag reveals a beautiful view of the lake.
Route of the wine-growing villages of Bugey, starting from Lac du Lit au Roi.
26.06 mi
+1,745 ft
-1,762 ft
4 hrs
Easy
Departure from Cressin-Rochefort (Ain)
Starting from Lac du Lit au Roi, passing by Lac de Barterand and then through the wine-growing villages of Bugey, Flaxieu, Pollieu, Vongnes, Ceyzerieu and its hamlets, and Saint-Martin de Bavel.Views of the Grand Colombier and the Lavours marshes.Circular with return to Lac du Lit du Roi for a quick dip.
Mont Landard circuit
3.97 mi
+719 ft
-725 ft
2h 25
Easy
Departure from Saint-Pierre-de-Curtille (Savoie)
An easy walk in the Savoyard foothills starting from the curious Church of Saint-Pierre-de-Curtille.
The walk provides access to a pretty viewpoint over the Rhône river developments.
On the cliffs of Cessens
2.08 mi
+656 ft
-646 ft
1h 30
Moderate
Departure from Cessens (Savoie)
A short walk on the Cessens mountain, with views of the lake and the Bugey.
Circular route on Sapenay Mountain
2.83 mi
+840 ft
-817 ft
2 hrs
Easy
Departure from Cessens (Savoie)
This is an unmarked and little-used route that is best taken in the middle of winter if you want to have enough snow, as the altitude remains modest (between 800 and 950 metres). The views of Lake Bourget are magnificent.
In summer, it is possible to follow a marked route called "le tour de la montagne du Sapenay" (the Sapenay mountain tour), which does not, however, take the section directly overlooking the lake.
Le Grand Colombier from the Arvière lodge
Association / Club / Walk leader
6.69 mi
+1,542 ft
-1,535 ft
4h 25
Moderate
Departure from Lochieu (Ain)
Hike from the Chalet d'Arvières with a gradual, shaded climb to the Col de Charbemènes. Then follow the marked trail, which will take you to the Grand Colombier at 1,525 m in about an hour. You will then have a magnificent view of the Alps, Mont Blanc, Lac du Bourget, the Rhône, and more.
Le Grand Colombier with return via the Griffe du Diable ridge
9.11 mi
+1,785 ft
-1,772 ft
5h 45
Moderate
Departure from Lochieu (Ain)
To complete the hike (Le Grand Colombier from the lodge d'Arvière n°1241202), you can extend it from the pass by returning via the Griffe du Diable and Grange d'en Bas ridges.
This trail is less frequented than the one leading to the cross and then to Le Grand Colombier itself, offering you more distant views.
Best done in good weather without snow, this trail seems less suitable for snowshoes.
Cessens to La Chambotte circular loop
5.79 mi
+1,306 ft
-1,322 ft
3h 50
Moderate
Departure from Cessens (Savoie)
This walk is a circular route starting at Notre-Dame de la Salette (Cessens) and ending at La Chambotte. It passes by the Tours de César and the castle ruins before descending towards the hamlet of La Chambotte, following the ridge.
Chalet d'Arvière - Pont de La Loi
Tourist office12.36 mi
+1,365 ft
-4,439 ft
6h 50
Very difficult
Departure from Lochieu (Ain)
Open from 1 April to 30 November – subject to snow conditions.
The section from the Chalet d’Arvière to Pont de La Loi is the sixth stage of the six-day walking tour “La GTJ from Mijoux”.
The GR®9 enters the Ain department via Mijoux, before following the spectacular ridges of the Monts-Jura, passing through the Crêt de la Neige, the highest point of the massif. It then descends towards Bellegarde-sur-Valserine, crosses the Retord plateau and then crosses the Grand Colombier. The trail continues its route to Culoz and the Rhône Valley, before leaving the Ain to reach Savoie and continuing southwards.
Chalet d'Arvière - Pont de La Loi
12.35 mi
+1,368 ft
-4,439 ft
6h 50
Difficult
Departure from Lochieu (Ain)
Open from 1 April to 30 November ( subject to there being no snow).
The final and sixth stage of the six-day “Grande Traversée du Jura à pied: from La Borne au Lion to Culoz” trek.
The GTJ links Mandeure (Doubs) to Culoz (Ain) in 15 to 20 days, crossing the Jura Mountains and the Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park. The route suggested here corresponds to the second half of the itinerary.
Route of heather starting from Chazey-Bons
3.66 mi
+322 ft
-315 ft
2h 00
Easy
Departure from Chazey-Bons (Ain)
Pleasant, shaded hike
Few markings at the start of the route, yellow markings in the undergrowth, cairns to cross the stone plateaus.
Circular route north of Grand Colombier to admire the Alps and Valromey.
7.16 mi
+1,575 ft
-1,568 ft
4h 40
Moderate
Departure from Lochieu (Ain)
The Grand Colombier, part of the Jura mountains but located in the department of Ain, was made popular by the Tour de France. This hike, starting from the Chalet d'Arvière, takes you along two parallel ridge paths and past the foot of the Grand Colombier. Magnificent views on all sides.
The Tours de César
4.42 mi
+1,004 ft
-988 ft
2h 55
Easy
Departure from Saint-Germain-la-Chambotte (Savoie)
A loop above lake Bourget for a late afternoon walk.
A walk amid historical sites and beautiful viewpoints.
Tours of César and Mont Laval circular loop
4.22 mi
+1,181 ft
-1,184 ft
3h 00
Moderate
Departure from Saint-Germain-la-Chambotte (Savoie)
Les Tours de César offers a variety of routes suitable for all seasons. The circular route follows the cliffs of Mont Laval as closely as possible: at the foot of the cliffs on the way out, along the edge of their summit on the way back.
Mont Laval and the Tours de César
5.14 mi
+1,604 ft
-1,601 ft
3h 45
Moderate
Departure from Saint-Germain-la-Chambotte (Savoie)
This hike takes you to the summit of Mont Laval and then follows a circular route via the Tours de César to return via the Col de la Chambotte. Beautiful views of Lac du Bourget and the surrounding mountains.
Lucey and Jongieux circuit
7.64 mi
+1,129 ft
-1,129 ft
4h 30
Moderate
Departure from Lucey (Savoie) (Savoie)
This circuit runs along a sunny hillside. It takes you to the heritage sites of the commune of Lucey and offers a beautiful view of the Jongieux vineyards dominated by the Saint-Romain Chapel.
The Mountain of Parves
6.97 mi
+1,329 ft
-1,302 ft
4h 20
Moderate
Departure from Parves (Ain)
Parves and a few other villages are nestled between the old Rhône and the canal (actually the canalised Rhône): you could say that this area forms an island. The suggested walk takes place at low altitude through woods, forests, agricultural landscapes, villages and hamlets that have preserved or enhanced the typical buildings of the Bugey region. There is also a beautiful view of the Savoyard foothills.
Sentier des Granges trail starting from Lac du Bourget
9.68 mi
+2,651 ft
-2,644 ft
6h 45
Difficult
Departure from Brison-Saint-Innocent (Savoie)
A hike mainly through woodland with beautiful views of Lac du Bourget.
Val du Fier viewpoint from Chavanne d'en Bas
5.02 mi
+1,617 ft
-1,637 ft
3h 45
Moderate
Departure from Val-de-Fier (Haute-Savoie)
Nice looped hiking trail mostly in the undergrowth where you can see pretty views like Val du Fier's canyon, the river Rhône downstream Seyssel or the lovely ruined Saint André's chapel overlooking Albanais' plains.
Loop above Brison
8.20 mi
+2,326 ft
-2,359 ft
5h 50
Easy
Departure from Brison-Saint-Innocent (Savoie)
This loop starts in Brison and climbs to the Croix de Meyrieu, then follows the ridge line to La Chambotte and returns to the starting point via a path through old vineyards. This walk offers numerous views of Lake Bourget.
Mont de Corsuet via the Meyrieux crosses
5.74 mi
+1,598 ft
-1,572 ft
4h 00
Moderate
Departure from Brison-Saint-Innocent (Savoie)
This is a hike with magnificent views of Lake Bourget, the Chat Mountains, the Chartreuse Mountains, as well as the Albanais and Bauges regions, on a well-maintained path.