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Novel walks
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.
Pic de Borée from Novel
Visorando Member
5.61 mi
+2,510 ft
-2,510 ft
4h 45
Difficult
Departure from Novel (Haute-Savoie)
A summit offering superb views of both Lake Geneva and the Chablais massif. This route via the south face offers a walk in a beautiful natural setting. It also avoids the hassle of the ski lifts at the Thollon ski resort (north face, more crowded).
Lac et Pas de Lovenex
4.81 mi
+2,497 ft
-2,490 ft
4h 25
Difficult
Departure from Novel (Haute-Savoie)
Niché dans un cadre sauvage, le Lac de Lovenex constitue le but de cette randonnée franco-suisse. On passe d'abord au Pas de Lovenex, afin de bénéficier d'une vue unique sur ce petit lac qui apparaît comme suspendu au-dessus du Lac Léman visible à l'arrière-plan.
Tour of the two peaks of Oche from Novel
8.13 mi
+3,747 ft
-3,750 ft
7h 00
Difficult
Departure from Novel (Haute-Savoie)
This hike takes you around two iconic twin peaks in the Chablais region, the famous Dent d'Oche and its lesser-known neighbour, the Château d'Oche. The first part of the loop offers superb views of the impressive north faces of these two peaks. The second part, via the chalets of Oche and the Portes du même nom, opens onto the Bise nature reserve and the lakes of Darbon and Neuteu. The final descent takes place in the forest near the French-Swiss border.
From Saint-Gingolph to the Chalets de Bise
7.66 mi
+5,013 ft
-1,348 ft
7h 55
Difficult
Departure from Saint-Gingolph (Haute-Savoie)
This first stage of the Grande Traversée des Alpes (GTA), from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean, takes place in the Chablais massif. The path climbs up the Novel valley on the left bank of the Morge, below the hamlet of La Meurtaz, then follows the D30 road, which it overlooks after the hamlet of Jordy. On leaving Novel, the path winds its way above the hairpin bends of the D30 to La Planche. There, it leaves the main valley route to climb due south towards the chalets of Neuteu and on to the Col de Bise, before descending to the Chalets de Bise.
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.
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.
Château d'Oche from Bise
5.46 mi
+2,671 ft
-2,654 ft
4h 50
Difficult
Departure from La Chapelle-d'Abondance (Haute-Savoie)
The Roc du Château d'Oche offers a majestic panorama of both Lake Geneva and the Northern Alps. This hike takes you up via a route through the stunning setting of Bise, with less elevation gain than the route from the usual starting point at La Fétiuère and several options for the return journey.
N.B. Route within a protected natural area: see the recommendations in the practical information.
Tête de Charousse and Crête du Velan
4.17 mi
+1,900 ft
-1,900 ft
3h 35
Moderate
Departure from La Chapelle-d'Abondance (Haute-Savoie)
An ascent to a pass, a ridge walk facing the imposing Cornettes de Bise massif, and a descent through pastures. A beautiful setting and superb views. A fairly short hike, recommended for a beautiful autumn day.
N.B. Route within a protected natural area: see recommendations in the practical information section.
From Bise to Lake Fontaine via Ubine
5.35 mi
+1,742 ft
-2,293 ft
4h 00
Moderate
Departure from La Chapelle-d'Abondance (Haute-Savoie)
If you want to discover the mountains in all their forms, both mineral and human, take this challenging route.
You are in a protected area! See the regulations in the practical information section.
Tour of the four passes starting from the Chalets de Bise
7.38 mi
+3,734 ft
-3,717 ft
6h 40
Difficult
Departure from La Chapelle-d'Abondance (Haute-Savoie)
A cross-border hike that takes in four passes within the Bise nature reserve. Superb views of the Cornettes de Bise and the surrounding peaks, as well as lakes, await you.
N.B. Route within a protected natural area: see recommendations in the practical information section.
The Mémises "without effort"
3.65 mi
+751 ft
-764 ft
2h 20
Moderate
Departure from Thollon-les-Mémises (Haute-Savoie)
The Mémises mountain and its two peaks offer ridge trails with beautiful views of Lake Geneva. This hike starts at the Thollon cable car station, which avoids the steep slopes of the usual ascent routes (described elsewhere). This hike is therefore designed to introduce young children or inexperienced walkers to the mountains.
Pic de Borée from Thollon
3.67 mi
+1,247 ft
-1,224 ft
2h 45
Moderate
Departure from Thollon-les-Mémises (Haute-Savoie)
A summit offering superb panoramic views of both Lake Geneva and the Chablais massif. This route via the north face is shorter than the one via the south face and runs through the Thollon-les-Mémises ski resort.
Pic de Blanchard via the Chalets de Corniens
8.07 mi
+2,267 ft
-2,241 ft
5h 40
Moderate
Departure from Thollon-les-Mémises (Haute-Savoie)
A hike at medium altitude, on a route that is often shaded. A flower-covered summit offering superb views of Lake Geneva and the surrounding peaks. Beautiful views of the lake along the way.
La Grande Jumelle
8.10 mi
+3,829 ft
-3,829 ft
7h 05
Difficult
Departure from Vouvry (Valais)
A not too busy hike up to a summit offering a vast panoramic view. A relatively challenging route with some aerial passages requesting a certain sense of itinerary at times. The beginning of the hikes passes through Tanay site and its lake.
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.
Alamon from Miex
6.17 mi
+2,936 ft
-2,936 ft
5h 25
Difficult
Departure from Vouvry (Valais)
A little-visited summit, accessible in mid-season and offering beautiful views. The climb starts in the forest and passes through the protected site of Taney and its lake. The hike ends in the mountain pastures.
Ascent and tour of Les Mémises from Thollon
8.45 mi
+2,684 ft
-2,664 ft
6h 15
Difficult
Departure from Thollon-les-Mémises (Haute-Savoie)
A circular that allows you to climb the Mémises via their northern slope. Splendid panoramic views of Lake Geneva and beautiful views of the northern faces of the Dent d'Oche and Pic de Borée await you.
Pic de Borée from Trossy
6.05 mi
+2,933 ft
-2,910 ft
5h 20
Difficult
Departure from Bernex (Haute-Savoie)
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.
Darbon Lake from Fontaine Lake
6.94 mi
+2,756 ft
-2,762 ft
5h 35
Difficult
Departure from Vacheresse (Haute-Savoie)
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.
Pointe de Bénevent
5.61 mi
+2,579 ft
-2,566 ft
4h 50
Difficult
Departure from Vacheresse (Haute-Savoie)
The ascent of a little-visited peak in the renowned Bise area. A hike featuring a few tricky sections, which can be done as a round trip or a circular hike.
A shorter, easier version is suitable for a family hike in beautiful, unspoilt surroundings.
N.B. Route within a protected natural area: see the recommendations in the practical information.
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.
The Dent d'Oche from the start of the Fetiuère
4.20 mi
+3,271 ft
-3,274 ft
4h 45
Difficult
Departure from Bernex (Haute-Savoie)
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!
Circular Dent d'Oche loop via Pointe de Pelluaz
7.44 mi
+4,587 ft
-4,567 ft
8 hrs
Very difficult
Departure from Bernex (Haute-Savoie)
I suggest a lovely route in the Chablais Massif, notably via the Dent d'Oche. There are beautiful views to enjoy almost all along the way (Lake Geneva, Chablais, Mont Blanc Massif, and more).
Please note: there are some difficulties around the Dent d'Oche on a series of paths equipped with chains and a few exposed sections (see description below).
Château d'Oche from La Fétiuère
5.14 mi
+3,182 ft
-3,169 ft
5h 10
Difficult
Departure from Bernex (Haute-Savoie)
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.
The tour of Mont Chauffé
8.50 mi
+3,077 ft
-3,064 ft
6h 35
Difficult
Departure from La Chapelle-d'Abondance (Haute-Savoie)
A circular trail around Mont Chauffé with superb views of the north face of this summit (an impressive limestone wall), the Cornettes de Bise and the Dents du Midi. The Vallon d'Ubine offers a wild setting, enhanced by the presence of herds of livestock.
N.B. Route within a protected natural area: see recommendations in the practical information section.
Chalets de Mens and Pointe de la Bosse tower
4.10 mi
+2,113 ft
-2,113 ft
3h 45
Moderate
Departure from La Chapelle-d'Abondance (Haute-Savoie)
A loop in a beautiful alpine setting at the foot of two majestic peaks, Mont Chauffé on the way up and the Cornettes de Bise on the way down.
N.B. Route within a protected natural area: see recommendations in the practical information.
Cornettes de Bise from Chevenne
5.76 mi
+3,963 ft
-3,963 ft
6h 05
Difficult
Departure from La Chapelle-d'Abondance (Haute-Savoie)
A common route to the Cornettes de Bise when staying in the upper Abondance Valley. A long route with elevation gain, leading to a magnificent setting. 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.
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 quarries of Meillerie
4.82 mi
+1,496 ft
-1,490 ft
3h 30
Moderate
Departure from Meillerie (Haute-Savoie)
Exploited since the 18th century, the Meillerie quarries provided the stone used to construct many buildings in Geneva and Lausanne. Today, only one quarry is still in operation, but it is not open to the public. This hike, which requires sure-footedness, first takes you to two old quarries, La Balme and La Balle, and offers superb panoramic views of Lake Geneva. The return journey is along a lakeside path.
The Belvédère du Hucel from Thollon
2.73 mi
+390 ft
-361 ft
1h 35
Easy
Departure from Thollon-les-Mémises (Haute-Savoie)
At the foot of Montagne des Mémises, a short walk takes you up to a unique viewpoint offering breathtaking views of Lake Geneva.
Col de Pavis and Combe de Darbon
10.55 mi
+4,327 ft
-4,324 ft
8h 35
Very difficult
Departure from Bernex (Haute-Savoie)
Starting from Bernex, this circular is a great classic. Long with a significant elevation gain, the effort required is pleasantly rewarded by the dazzling panoramic views of the Mont Blanc massif, the Dents du Midi and the Bernese Oberland. Herds of ibex are frequently encountered near the Col de Pavis.
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.
Mont Baron from Pré Richard via the Col des Boeufs
1.73 mi
+889 ft
-906 ft
1h 35
Moderate
Departure from Bernex (Haute-Savoie)
A fast-paced, invigorating hike rewarded with a beautiful view of the Dent d'Oche and Lake Geneva.
Le Pic des Mémises from Creusaz
4.42 mi
+2,152 ft
-2,156 ft
3h 55
Moderate
Departure from Bernex (Haute-Savoie)
A pleasant, fairly short hike in relatively wild countryside with exceptional views (Jura, Lake Geneva basin, Chablais massif).
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.
Arvouin Lake and Vernaz Pass
4.96 mi
+1,138 ft
-1,138 ft
3h 15
Moderate
Departure from La Chapelle-d'Abondance (Haute-Savoie)
An excellent family hike. You can go as far as the pass or stop at the lake, which is already a very beautiful setting. Beautiful views of the Dents du Midi (climb to the lake) and the Cornettes de Bise (from the pass).
You are in a protected area! See the regulations in the practical information section.
Pointe d'Arvouin
3.99 mi
+1,460 ft
-1,434 ft
3h 05
Moderate
Departure from La Chapelle-d'Abondance (Haute-Savoie)
The ascent of a picturesque peak offering a bird's eye view of Lake Arvouin and a beautiful view of the Cornettes de Bise, the highest point in the area.
N.B. Route within a protected natural area: see recommendations in the practical information.
Grand tour Pic de Borée, Mémises and Mont César
9.34 mi
+3,451 ft
-3,442 ft
7h 20
Difficult
Departure from Bernex (Haute-Savoie)
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.
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.
Le Haut Sex from Sevan
3.74 mi
+1,437 ft
-1,437 ft
3h 00
Moderate
Departure from La Chapelle-d'Abondance (Haute-Savoie)
A summit that doesn’t look like much from below but offers a superb panorama of the Chablais peaks, the Vaud Alps, the Valais Alps and Mont Blanc. A very varied circular route, alternating between forest, mountain pastures and ridges, tracks, paths and trails, with short steep climbs and gentle slopes.
Douert and Mouët mountain pastures from Sevan Devant
5.34 mi
+1,273 ft
-1,253 ft
3h 35
Moderate
Departure from La Chapelle-d'Abondance (Haute-Savoie)
A pretty circular route overlooking the Abondance valley with views of the Dents du Midi. A limited elevation gain and a two-level route with no difficulty. The alpine walk proposed here is both interesting and scenic.
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.
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.
Col de Creusaz and Bois de la Corne
5.52 mi
+1,099 ft
-1,093 ft
3h 30
Moderate
Departure from Thollon-les-Mémises (Haute-Savoie)
A mid-season hike, while waiting for the snow to melt from the peaks. Beautiful panoramic views of Lake Geneva. Beautiful views of the Mémises cliff.
Mont Baron from Bernex
3.84 mi
+1,893 ft
-1,893 ft
3h 25
Moderate
Departure from Bernex (Haute-Savoie)
A hike offering beautiful panoramic views of Lake Geneva and the Chablais massif. The hike starts at the bottom of the Bernex station, which is convenient when the Pré Richard road is closed.
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.
Vallon d'Ubine and Pointe de Lachau
3.01 mi
+1,549 ft
-1,539 ft
2h 45
Moderate
Departure from Vacheresse (Haute-Savoie)
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.
Mont Chauffé
3.92 mi
+2,799 ft
-2,799 ft
5 hrs
Very difficult
Departure from Abondance (Haute-Savoie)
An isolated and little-visited summit in a wild setting, offering a superb 360° panorama of Lake Geneva, the Chablais, the Dents du Midi and the Mont Blanc Massif. A route for experienced hikers, with very steep slopes, aerial passages and several easy rock climbing sections.
N.B. Route within a protected natural area: see recommendations in the practical information section.
Pointe d'Autigny from Abondance
5.59 mi
+1,982 ft
-1,982 ft
4h 20
Moderate
Departure from Abondance (Haute-Savoie)
A pretty little summit with extensive views, which we recommend climbing via the Abondance side. Beautiful views of the Cornettes de Bise and the north face of Mont Chauffé, as well as Lake Geneva.
From Bernex to Les Chalets de Bise
8.24 mi
+4,633 ft
-2,795 ft
7h 50
Very difficult
Departure from Bernex (Haute-Savoie)
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.
Following the Ugine around Bernex
4.49 mi
+528 ft
-531 ft
2h 30
Easy
Departure from Bernex (Haute-Savoie)
Flowing down from the foot of the Dent d'Oche, the Ugine river waters Bernex before joining the Dranse d'Abondance. This short hike largely follows the course of this river, passing through pretty hamlets and taking in two 19th-century chapels and a sacred cave, with the peaks of the Mémises-Oche massif as a backdrop.
Dranse d'Abondance and the Ruisseau des Mattes waterfalls
5.09 mi
+817 ft
-820 ft
3h 05
Easy
Departure from La Chapelle-d'Abondance (Haute-Savoie)
Discover the banks of the Dranse d'Abondance from La Chapelle d'Abondance towards Châtel and two beautiful waterfalls on the Ruisseau des Mattes.
On the banks of the Dranse, see practical information.
Tête des Fieux and Pointe de Pelluaz circular from Vacheresse
7.67 mi
+3,635 ft
-3,635 ft
6h 40
Difficult
Departure from Vacheresse (Haute-Savoie)
A relatively long hike, which starts in the forest and offers a beautiful ridge route, passing two peaks and superb 360° panoramic views, particularly of Lake Geneva and the surrounding mountains.
The Rhône plain and the vineyards of Vionnaz
3.27 mi
+522 ft
-515 ft
1h 55
Easy
Departure from Vionnaz (Valais)
Between two ascents of the surrounding peaks, or when these are shrouded in clouds or under snow, a short, easy walk across the plain and along the boundary between vineyards and forest, exploring the rich heritage of the old village of Vionnaz.
The Morclan tour from Châtel
7.50 mi
+2,585 ft
-2,569 ft
5h 40
Moderate
Departure from Châtel (Haute-Savoie)
A beautiful, challenging "all-in-one" hike: beautiful mountain pastures, views of the surrounding peaks (Mont de Grange and Cornettes de Bises), 360° panorama from the summit of Morclan (Dents du Midi, Mont Blanc massif, Lake Geneva, Rhône Valley, etc.).
Tour of the Bois des Granges forest starting from Abondance
6.20 mi
+1,247 ft
-1,220 ft
3h 55
Moderate
Departure from Abondance (Haute-Savoie)
Hike, half road, half trail, loop, starting from the village centre, which offers several viewpoints of Pointe d'Autigny, Mont Jora, Mont de Grange and Mont Chauffé.
The Border Ridge and Pointe de Recon from le Morclan
6.42 mi
+1,007 ft
-3,533 ft
3h 50
Moderate
Departure from Châtel (Haute-Savoie)
A pleasant walk along the border ridge from the Morclan chair lift. Variations are possible (and described) to give more ascent. Opportunities for great views across the mountains in the Chatel Area and into Switzerland, including the Montreaux end of Lac Leman.
More walks in Novel
Select a point of interest below: