Refine your search for walks in Lac Léman
Lac Léman walks
La Dôle from Les Dappes
Visorando Member
4.16 mi
+1,424 ft
-1,427 ft
3h 10
Moderate
Departure from Prémanon (Jura)
Without doubt, the shortest path up to the summit of La Dôle (1677m altitude) from the French side of the border. In good weather, the views are breathtaking and go on for over 250km: from the Swiss Alps to Mont Blanc and on to the Vanoise and the Ecrins, all of this with plunging views down over Geneva and its lake.
Lake Darbon from Bise
4.11 mi
+2,116 ft
-2,106 ft
3h 45
Moderate
Departure from La Chapelle-d'Abondance (Haute-Savoie)
A superb hike starting from the Chalets de Bise, to discover Lake Darbon, a little gem nestled among the rocks.
⚠️ This route crosses the protected natural area of the Cornettes de Bise. To avoid disturbing the wildlife and preserve its habitat, please respect the regulations in force (see practical information). ANYONE WHO FAILS TO DO SO WILL BE FINED.
Crêt de la Neige
9.75 mi
+3,291 ft
-3,271 ft
7h 20
Difficult
Departure from Lélex (Ain)
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.
Lac Noir and Lac de la Beunaz
7.37 mi
+594 ft
-620 ft
3h 55
Moderate
Departure from Saint-Paul-en-Chablais (Haute-Savoie)
Discover two glacial lakes: Lac Noir, nestled in lush greenery, and Lac de la Beunaz, which is also a popular summer leisure destination. This hike follows paths through forests and meadows, as well as small roads with very little traffic. It offers superb panoramic views of Lake Geneva to the north and the surrounding peaks to the south.
The Grand Montrond
5.19 mi
+1,227 ft
-1,240 ft
3h 25
Moderate
Departure from Mijoux (Ain)
Offers an unforgettable view of Lake Geneva, Geneva and its water jet, and Mont Blanc in the background.
Mont Sala
6.25 mi
+1,677 ft
-1,657 ft
7 hrs
Moderate
Departure from Les Rousses (Jura)
Mont Sala offers remarkable views of Lake Geneva and the Alps, particularly its highest peak.Important note mentioned by a hiker: this route is located in an area regulated by the Federal District of Le Noirmont; in winter, only marked trails are authorised in order to preserve wildlife, so access to Crêt des Danses and summit 1515 is prohibited.
Crêt de la Goutte via Le Sac and Varambon
7.07 mi
+2,346 ft
-2,326 ft
5h 20
Moderate
Departure from Chézery-Forens (Ain)
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.
La Faucille - Colomby de Gex - Mont Rond
10.22 mi
+2,890 ft
-2,894 ft
7h 15
Difficult
Departure from Gex (Ain)
Je vous propose de réaliser un parcours en boucle au départ des environs du Col de la Faucille (parking du Pailly) afin d’accéder au Colomby de Gex : à l'aller le tracé évolue sous les Monts Jura et au retour sur ses crêtes avec une succession de montées et descentes.
Certaines parties du parcours sont situées en zones de quiétude de la faune sauvage et il ne sera ainsi pas possible de le parcourir du 15/12 au 15/05 (à lire ci dessous)
Cornettes de Bise from Bise
6.40 mi
+3,888 ft
-3,862 ft
6 hrs
Very difficult
Departure from La Chapelle-d'Abondance (Haute-Savoie)
One of the most beautiful hikes in the Chablais! A long and demanding route, where you walk in sumptuous surroundings. From the summit, the highest in the region along with the neighbouring Mont de Grange (2,432 m), there is a superb panorama of Lake Geneva, the Chablais peaks, the Swiss Alps and the Mont Blanc massif.
N.B. Route within a protected natural area: see recommendations in the practical information section.
Balcon des Mémises via Sur les Prés
6.80 mi
+2,477 ft
-2,457 ft
5h 15
Moderate
Departure from Bernex (Haute-Savoie)
The Balcon des Mémises is a magnificent hike alternating between forest trails and walks along the ridges, with spectacular views of Lake Geneva, the Chablais and the Jura mountains throughout the return journey. This hike does not take the Passage de l'Échelle.
The tour of Mont Bénand
4.37 mi
+646 ft
-650 ft
2h 35
Moderate
Departure from Bernex (Haute-Savoie)
A family walk through pastures with beautiful views of the Mémises, Mont César and Dent d'Oche, as well as Lake Geneva. This hike can be done in its entirety or in a shorter version.
The water ridges
8.42 mi
+3,196 ft
-3,163 ft
6h 40
Difficult
Departure from Bellegarde-sur-Valserine (Ain)
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.
Ascent and tour of the Mémises via the ladder
6.96 mi
+2,037 ft
-2,034 ft
5h 00
Moderate
Departure from Bernex (Haute-Savoie)
A three-loop circuit: one around Mont César, and two on the ridges via the eastern summit of Les Mémises and then via Pic des Mémises (western summit). The length of the route can be adjusted depending on weather conditions, fitness level or the time at which you start the hike. Splendid panoramic views of Lake Geneva and beautiful views of the north faces of the Dent d'Oche and Pic de Borée.
The Vuache from Chaumont
4.65 mi
+1,673 ft
-1,663 ft
3h 35
Moderate
Departure from Chaumont (Haute-Savoie) (Haute-Savoie)
An easy walk with magnificent views of the Retord, Lake Geneva, Mont Blanc and the mountains around Lake Annecy.
Les hauts sommets du massif du Jura depuis Lélex
Tourist office
9.96 mi
+3,081 ft
-3,100 ft
7h 15
Difficult
Departure from Lélex (Ain)
Open from 1 April to 30 November, subject to snow conditions
This tour offers a varied and challenging route, from the banks of the Valserine to the highest peaks of the Jura, with sublime views of the Alps, Lake Geneva and the Jura mountains.
Starting from Lélex, the path runs alongside the Valserine and its peat bog before beginning the ascent of the Reculet (1,719 m) and the Crêt de la Neige, the highest point of the massif at 1,720 m. On the way back down to Lélex, note the remains of old buildings, evidence of the alpine farming tradition of the Jura Mountains.
Le Creux du Croue - Le Noirmont
9.61 mi
+2,024 ft
-2,018 ft
6h 10
Moderate
Departure from Saint-Cergue (Vaud)
A walk through unspoilt nature, across meadows, woods and scree slopes, following beautiful valleys with views of the Alps. The highlight of this walk is, of course, the Creux du Croue, a deep and magnificent depression.
Mont de Grange crossing
6.71 mi
+3,602 ft
-3,602 ft
6h 15
Difficult
Departure from Abondance (Haute-Savoie)
A loop trail that takes you to the highest point of the Vallée d'Abondance Chablais, offering exceptional views of the Alps. A fairly wild climb up the Montagne de Pertuis, followed by a more conventional descent via the Crête de Coicon.
Caution: near (4), there is a ridge that is a little exposed.
You are in a protected area! See the regulations in the practical information section.
The Pointe de Balafrasse
3.65 mi
+2,175 ft
-2,178 ft
3h 35
Moderate
Departure from Le Reposoir (Haute-Savoie)
Starting from the Col de la Colombière, the Pointe de Balafrasse is a hike that passes by Lac de Peyre. Panoramic view of the Aravis mountain range and the Mont Blanc massif if the clouds are not too thick. No technical difficulties except perhaps for those who are afraid of heights after the Col de Balafrasse between (3) and .
From La Croisette to Grand Piton
6.36 mi
+951 ft
-922 ft
3h 45
Easy
Departure from La Muraz (Haute-Savoie)
A pleasant walk starting from La Croisette, with a loop route at the top of Salève, on a short section of the "Balcon du Léman". The Salève des Pitons (or Pitons) is not the most spectacular part of Mont Salève, but it nevertheless offers exceptional views (the Franco-Genevan basin, the Jura mountain range, the Geneva harbour/Petit-lac, the Vaud and Valais Alps, the Arve Valley, the Chablais, the Mont Blanc range, the Bornes, the Aravis, etc.).
Balcon du Léman via the Signal des Voirons
7.73 mi
+2,031 ft
-2,011 ft
5h 20
Moderate
Departure from Lucinges (Haute-Savoie)
A walk along the ridge and through the woods (in the cool), without tarmac, with beautiful views of Geneva and Lake Geneva to the west, and the Alps and the Mont Blanc range to the east.
This loop has the advantage of being shortened (or extended) as you wish, as it intersects with many other trails.
Pointe de Miribel loop from La Glappaz
4.69 mi
+1,309 ft
-1,289 ft
3h 20
Moderate
Departure from Habère-Lullin (Haute-Savoie)
A modest but isolated peak, the Pointe de Miribel offers extensive views of Lake Geneva and the Haute-Savoie mountains as far as Mont Blanc. The route on the southern slope of the summit is marked by a Way of the Cross dating from 1804. This loop offers a more original and varied approach than the usual climb from Ajon, through pleasant mountain pastures and a few wooded sections.
Mont Mourex
6.06 mi
+823 ft
-827 ft
3h 30
Easy
Departure from Divonne-les-Bains (Ain)
Panoramic view of Lake Geneva, the Alps, the high Jura mountains and the Pays de Gex
The two castles of Allinges
1.99 mi
+574 ft
-574 ft
1h 25
Moderate
Departure from Allinges (Haute-Savoie)
Two castles on the same hilltop were rivals for many years before being dismantled. This short hike, which includes a few steep sections, allows you to visit the ruins of these castles, including a Romanesque chapel, and enjoy a sweeping view of Lake Geneva. An even shorter alternative avoids most of the climb.
The Belvédère du Turet from the Col de la Faucille
3.17 mi
+574 ft
-561 ft
2 hrs
Easy
Departure from Mijoux (Ain)
Open from 1 December to 30 March
A lovely walk through the forest in the nature reserve leading to a viewpoint offering views of the Alps, Mont Blanc and Lake Geneva. Hiking in the nature reserve - Dogs not allowed - Most of the route is located in a wildlife quiet zone, so it is mandatory to follow the markings.
On the Salève Plateau
5.74 mi
+906 ft
-906 ft
3h 25
Moderate
Departure from Collonges-sous-Salève (Haute-Savoie)
This is a pleasant hike, with beautiful views of the Mont Blanc range in the first part.
From the cable car station, the Geneva basin spreads out below you.
The Salève via the Orjobet trail
4.67 mi
+2,090 ft
-2,090 ft
4h 00
Moderate
Departure from Collonges-sous-Salève (Haute-Savoie)
The Salève in Haute Savoie is a bit like the mountain of the people of Geneva. The Grotte d'Orjobet still bears the stamp of the CAS (Swiss Alpine Club). From Le Coin, a steady climb takes you to the cave, which you can then cross. After a final climb, you come out onto the plateau, which is also an alpine pasture. The view is simply magnificent.
Pointe d'Ireuse via the chalets of Nifflon
4.99 mi
+1,909 ft
-1,903 ft
3h 55
Moderate
Departure from Vailly (Haute-Savoie) (Haute-Savoie)
The summit is rarely visited, despite offering a splendid 360° panorama of Lake Geneva, the Chablais peaks, the Dents du Midi and the Mont Blanc massif. The route includes forest trails at the bottom and alpine pastures at the top.
On the shores of Lake Geneva between Yvoire and Nernier
3.63 mi
+180 ft
-194 ft
1h 50
Easy
Departure from Yvoire (Haute-Savoie)
Located on the shores of Lake Geneva, Yvoire and Nernier are two medieval villages that can be visited on foot. This hike offers the opportunity to discover these two superb sites by walking between them. The route described here is a short round trip, but in summer it can be done as a one-way trip with a return by boat.
Le Reculet via Le Rosset, Le Gralet, and the Grotte de la Marie du Jura
9.97 mi
+3,904 ft
-3,930 ft
8h 00
Very difficult
Departure from Chézery-Forens (Ain)
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.
La Dent d'Oche from Novel
Association / Club / Walk leader
8.89 mi
+4,478 ft
-4,475 ft
8 hrs
Very difficult
Departure from Novel (Haute-Savoie)
La Dent d'Oche is accessible via various routes. This one starts from a place called "La Planche" above Novel. It passes through "les chalets de Neuteu", the Pavis pass, the portes d'Oche, the lac de la case, the planchamp pass, the dent d'Oche and returns via the Rebollion pass, the Neuve pass, the Neuva dessous, the enclos, and finally "la Planche".
This route allowed us to see many ibex in different places and the local flora.
The Pointe de Pelluaz loop from La Fétiuère
5.34 mi
+2,421 ft
-2,418 ft
4h 35
Moderate
Departure from Bernex (Haute-Savoie)
This loop takes a variation of the route to Dent d'Oche and offers magnificent views of Lake Geneva and the surrounding peaks.
Le Reculet from Tiocan
4.55 mi
+2,792 ft
-2,792 ft
4h 30
Difficult
Departure from Thoiry (Ain)
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 Grammont
7.83 mi
+3,776 ft
-3,776 ft
6h 55
Difficult
Departure from Vouvry (Valais)
Passing through the preserved site of Tanay, with its lake, you climb to a summit that offers a unique view of Lake Geneva and a wide panorama of the surrounding mountains. A popular hike with steep sections but no technical difficulty.N.B. The calculated elevation gain is slightly overestimated; the actual cumulative elevation gain is close to 1,000 metres.
Pointe d'Autigny from Ubine
4.93 mi
+1,273 ft
-1,293 ft
3h 20
Moderate
Departure from Vacheresse (Haute-Savoie)
A pretty little summit with extensive views, a short, easy climb in the wild setting of the Vallon d'Ubine with a beautiful view of the north face of Mont Chauffé.
The Salève circular: Orjobet, Corraterie, viewpoints and Grande Gorge
7.80 mi
+2,625 ft
-2,612 ft
5h 50
Difficult
Departure from Collonges-sous-Salève (Haute-Savoie)
A circular trail that showcases the many facets of Salève: climb up via the Orjobet Cave, pass through the Trou de la Tine, Vire de la Corraterie, viewpoint towards Mont Blanc and Rochers de Faverges, viewpoints from the Observatory over Geneva and Lake Geneva, descent via the Grande Gorge and return to the start by passing under the large rock climbing routes.
On the shores of Lake Geneva between Meillerie and Locum
3.65 mi
+26 ft
-26 ft
1h 40
Easy
Departure from Meillerie (Haute-Savoie)
This short hike follows a path that runs continuously along Lake Geneva, which is an exception for this lake, whose shores are mostly located on private property. On one side, you can enjoy beautiful views of the opposite shore of the lake and the Vaud Alps, and on the other side, a view of the cliffs overlooking the lake.
The Terraces of Lavaux, the Three Suns
6.83 mi
+899 ft
-787 ft
3h 55
Moderate
Departure from Vaud
A beautiful walk through the vineyards of Lavaux, discovering the different appellations. Lovely views of the lake and the Alps.
Local wines can be tasted throughout the hike.
N.B. Contrary to what is automatically indicated on the hike information sheet, the Lavaux terraces are located in the canton of Vaud and not in Valais.
Le Linleu from Sevan
3.79 mi
+1,627 ft
-1,627 ft
3h 10
Moderate
Departure from La Chapelle-d'Abondance (Haute-Savoie)
Climb to a local viewpoint offering a 360° panorama of the Vaud and Valais Alps, Mont Blanc, the Abondance Valley and the main peaks of the Chablais, as well as Lake Geneva. A hike that lends itself to several variations and additions.
N.B. Route within a protected natural area: see recommendations in the practical information.
Lake Lioson and Pic Chaussy
3.98 mi
+2,208 ft
-2,208 ft
3h 45
Moderate
Departure from Ormont-Dessous (Vaud)
After reaching Vers les Lacs, you will hike through beautiful scenery to climb to the summit of Pic Chaussy, where you can enjoy a sweeping panorama. The descent is on another slope, still in beautiful surroundings, to the lovely Lac Lioson.
Crêt de Chalam via Montagne des Moines
7.04 mi
+3,232 ft
-3,215 ft
6h 05
Difficult
Departure from Chézery-Forens (Ain)
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.
Tête des Fieux and Mont Baron from Pré Richard
4.52 mi
+1,880 ft
-1,873 ft
3h 45
Moderate
Departure from Bernex (Haute-Savoie)
Although not a high-altitude hike, it offers beautiful views of Lake Geneva and the Chablais massif.
Mount Ouzon
3.86 mi
+2,096 ft
-2,096 ft
3h 35
Moderate
Departure from Le Biot (Haute-Savoie)
An isolated summit offering superb 360° panoramic views of Lake Geneva to the north and, to the south, the Chablais, the Swiss Alps and the Mont Blanc massif. A steep but short climb, a beautiful half-day hike.
The castles of Avully and Buffavens
5.05 mi
+371 ft
-371 ft
2h 40
Easy
Departure from Lully (Haute-Savoie)
At the foot of the Signal des Voirons and the Col de Cou, a rural loop leads to two beautiful castles, including Avully Castle, which is open to visitors.
Le Crêt de la Neige from the Catheline cable car station
4.87 mi
+925 ft
-928 ft
4 hrs
Moderate
Departure from Crozet (Ain)
Open from 15 December to 30 March, subject to the Catheline cable car being open.
Put on your snowshoes and set off to explore the famous Crêt de la Neige, the highest point in the Jura offering spectacular scenery!
The route is marked with purple posts for snowshoeing and is signposted for hiking all year round.
This route can be accessed by taking the Catheline cable car.
Les Hauts de Saint-Paul
5.65 mi
+364 ft
-358 ft
2h 55
Moderate
Departure from Saint-Paul-en-Chablais (Haute-Savoie)
A hike in a very rural setting that follows paths or small roads with very little traffic. There are some beautiful views: on the way up, of the Dent d'Oche and the surrounding peaks, and on the way down, of the Jura Mountains and, in places, Lake Geneva. There are also two oratories to visit.
Crêt de La Neuve
6.67 mi
+1,070 ft
-1,086 ft
4 hrs
Moderate
Departure from Le Chenit (Vaud)
This Swiss hike was done on snowshoes but could easily be done on foot, especially in autumn or spring, to enjoy the beauty of nature.
The Col du Marchairuz connects the Vallée de Joux to Lake Geneva.
Mont d'Hermone and Montagne des Soeurs from Vailly
5.69 mi
+1,572 ft
-1,572 ft
4h 00
Moderate
Departure from Vailly (Haute-Savoie) (Haute-Savoie)
This hike offers superb panoramic views of Lake Geneva and follows the entire ridge line of a modestly high peak. This circular route offers a more original and varied approach than the usual climb from the Col du Feu. Some sections require caution.
Pointe de Tréchauffé
2.21 mi
+1,152 ft
-1,152 ft
2h 00
Moderate
Departure from La Forclaz (Haute-Savoie)
At an altitude of 1,627 metres, Pointe de Tréchauffé rises between the Dranse d'Abondance and Dranse de Morzine valleys. The route is often shaded but offers some beautiful views of these two valleys and the surrounding peaks. Superb panorama from the summit.
Pointe de Bellevue, aptly named
3.94 mi
+1,375 ft
-1,358 ft
5 hrs
Moderate
Departure from Châtel (Haute-Savoie)
For lovers of breathtaking scenery, this is an outing not to be missed. The 360° panorama is worth the detour: Lake Geneva, Dents du Midi, Mont Blanc, etc. The first part, up to Portes de Culet, is not difficult. The second part, up to the summit, is more physically demanding.
Tour d'AÏ
6.04 mi
+2,831 ft
-2,831 ft
5h 15
Difficult
Departure from Leysin (Vaud)
The Tours d'Aï and Mayen are twin peaks visible from afar. The Tour d'AÏ is slightly higher than its neighbour, and also visited more frequently. It's a progressive climb which offers an aerial tour at the very end. Amazing views of Lac Léman, le Chablais, les Dents du Midi and the Mont Blanc massif from the summit.