Maxilly-sur-Léman walks

Discover the countryside and woods that stretch along the slopes bordering Lake Geneva. Take small roads, good paths and trails, playing leapfrog with two streams rushing down from the Plateau de Gavot and the old disused railway line known as the Tonkin Line.

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 commune of Lugrin stretches from the shores of Lake Geneva (375 m) to the Plateau de Gavot (900 m) and the northern summit of Mont Bénand (1,240 m). This hike begins with a climb to the hilltop village of Les Combes (570 m) with its beautiful old houses, passing by the venerable chestnut tree of Troubois. Next, a balcony trail and a descent lead to the old church of Lugrin, before returning to the main village. A bucolic hike where heritage is very much in evidence.

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.

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.

A tour of the main peaks of the Mémises massif. A long and beautiful route, where you have time to enjoy the mountains. Splendid panoramic views of Lake Geneva, the Chablais and the Vaud Pre-Alps.

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.

After a climb through the forest to wake up our muscles, we leave the mountain pastures of the Bas-Chablais Pre-Alps behind us. The route runs alongside several lakes and offers panoramic views stretching from the Jura mountains to the Mont Blanc massif before plunging down below the Cornettes de Bise.

The Pic de Borée offers superb panoramic views of both Lake Geneva and the Chablais massif. The route suggested here is probably not the most popular, but it offers an interesting variety of landscapes.

Much less frequented than its famous neighbour, the Dent d'Oche, and 24 metres lower, the Roc du Château d'Oche offers no less of a majestic panorama, both of Lake Geneva and the Northern Alps. Up to the Chalets d'Oche, the route is the same as that for the Dent d'Oche, and from these chalets, the climb takes place in a wilder setting.

This hike takes you to the Dent d'Oche. From this distinctive peak overlooking Lake Geneva, you can enjoy a magnificent 360° panorama of the Lake Geneva basin, the Jura and the Alps, including the Dents du Midi and the Mont Blanc massif. It's a difficult and exposed route, but the reward is well worth the effort when you reach the top!

A short hike that ends at a dead end... This is an opportunity to venture into a little-visited forest and walk along the slopes overlooking the Dranse River above its gorges. Expect to find damp vegetation where moss grows freely.

Treat yourself to an invigorating break in the heart of nature. Take a shaded forest trail for a refreshing hike, lulled by the murmur of a stream and the discreet song of birds. The rocky walls that line the trail will remind you of the quiet power of the mountains. The climb, which is steady from the car park to the refuge, invites you to take your time. It starts off gently, giving way to a more challenging section shortly before the end — a final rewarding effort before reaching your destination, nestled in the heart of nature.

An original route to reach Lake Darbon. The outward journey takes place in a wilder and less frequented setting than the usual route from the Chalets de Bise, which are crossed on the return journey due to a closed path on the original route. If you wish to avoid them, it is of course possible to return from the lake via the same route as on the outward journey. N.B. Route within a protected natural area: see recommendations in the practical information.

A small, unassuming peak, the Pointe de Lachau offers superb views of the Cornettes de Bise, the highest point in the area, and Mont Chauffé. Dominated by the impressive north face of Mont Chauffé, the Vallon d'Ubine is a beautiful setting and the simple climb to the Col d'Ubine is a lovely walk in itself with young children. N.B. Route within a protected natural area: see recommendations in the practical information.