Groisy walks

An easy hike with many remarkable views.

A circular hike to enjoy the Belvédère de Pierre Taillée viewpoint overlooking the Filière valley. The route is varied, through forest and then along the river. The village of Usillon is the starting point for the Glières plateau, another popular hiking destination.

Le Parmelan, via a slightly less traditional route. At the summit, sharp limestone pavement, Grotte de l'Enfer (and other caves), Mont Blanc range.

Le Parmelan, via the Col de Perthuis and return via the Petit MontoirVaried landscapes passing through green pastures, dense forests, rocks and impressive sharp limestone pavements on the summit.

Between showers, with temperatures rather cool for what was supposed to be spring, we enjoyed a short walk in familiar surroundings, but the route was as enchanting as ever.

This is one of the most accessible "mountains" around Lake Annecy. ⚠️ A decree issued by the municipalities of Annecy and Veyrier-du-Lac prohibits motorised vehicles from accessing the Col des Contrebandiers and Pré Vernet.

On the north-western edge of the Annecy conurbation and a stone's throw from the Épagny shopping area, this well-marked forest trail offers a refreshing change of scenery. From the summit, you can enjoy a magnificent view of the lake, the mountains and the Fier valley as it winds its way through the countryside.

The ridge trail from Mont Veyrier to Mont Baron overlooks Lake Annecy from a height of over 800 metres and offers panoramic views of the Bauges peaks. ⚠️ A decree issued by the municipalities of Annecy and Veyrier-du-Lac prohibits motorised vehicles from accessing the Col des Contrebandiers and Pré Vernet.

Snowshoe circuit on the vast Glières Plateau. Besides the historical aspect, the Glières Plateau is interesting to visit because the mountains that surround it are strong points of reference.

A beautiful, easy hike on the Glières Plateau, offering clear views of the mountain pastures and the Notre-Dame des Neiges Chapel. There are many chalets and mountain farms with herds of livestock in summer.

Tête Noire, Tête Ronde and Tête de l'Arpettaz: three peaks overlooking the southern end of the Glières Plateau. The hike takes you through a fairly wild and unfrequented part of the peaks surrounding the famous historic plateau. Magnificent 360° view.

An extremely easy walk in the heart of Annecy (because even city dwellers are allowed to take a stroll), along the famous lake spillway: the Thiou. A flat walk through the trees, dotted with numerous wash houses, mills and ducks... Ideal for a short stroll after lunch or a family outing.

A short and easy walk around the informative trail about the formation of marshland and the different fauna and flora found there, followed by a visit to the monument erected to the resistance fighters who were based at the Plateau des Glieres in the latter part of WWII. The way back follows part of the historic trail and passes the place where equipment drops were housed and the site of the infirmary.

A bit of history and prehistory for the whole family amid the waterfalls. An easy, educational walk through the Ice Age and the French Revolution with a detour to see some waterfalls.

A very family-friendly, rural hike through fields and woods. No particular difficulty. Lots of variations in the woods. Can also be done by mountain bike, but be careful as there may be fallen trees. Beautiful views of the Montagne d'Âge, the Mandallaz and the Montagne du Gros Foug, which separates us from the Rhône valley.

A little-used ridge route, mainly in forest, with a beautiful alpine climb. A few views of Lake Annecy, Mont Veyrier and the Dents de Lanfon. ⚠️ A decree issued by the municipalities of Annecy and Veyrier-du-Lac prohibits motor vehicles from accessing the Col des Contrebandiers and Pré Vernet.

An easy family walk through the valleys around the commune of Vaulx. On a clear day, Mont Blanc is omnipresent and the walk offers a wide view of most of the Savoyard massifs (Bornes, Aravis, Bauges) as well as the southern Jura (Colombier massif) and further south towards the Chartreuse and the Belledonne range.

I suggest a lovely walk in the south-western part of Mont Lachat, taking in a variety of landscapes and some interesting viewpoints in uncrowded areas. Please note that this is a challenging walk with difficult sections off the beaten track and exposed terrain where a misstep could be dangerous (see the practical information section).