Plaine Joux - Refuge de Moëde Anterne via Lac de Pormenaz

Departure from the large car park at Plaine Joux, near the ski lifts and paragliding launch site.

(S) The start of the hiking trails is located just above the information building. Do not take the road to the Refuge de Moëde d'Anterne, which you will reach higher up, but head towards Lac Vert. Further down, the trail crosses the road. Stay on the trail overlooking the lake to the north, which offers a view of this small body of water (1) that you will see again on your return the next day.

(2) At the intersection following this viewpoint, continue straight ahead towards Chatelet d'Ayères. Take the small path through the woods, which climbs quite steeply. Join the forest track just before the Refuge du Chatelet.

(3) Head towards "Le Gouet" then "Chalets du Souay", staying straight on the track.

(4) Leave the track at Chalets du Souay and take the path that branches off to the right before the bend. It descends gently to two streams, which you cross: the first at a ford, the second (the Souay) via a small bridge. You will reach the bottom of the Monthieux ravine. The climb begins gradually, then becomes steep. A few difficult sections are well equipped with chains and metal steps. The view of the ravine and the valley below makes the effort worthwhile. Turn around: in the distance, on a clear day, you can see the Bauges mountains. You will reach a trail junction.

(5) Take the Argentières trail straight ahead on the left, rather than the trail on the right that passes through La Chorde, as the cliffs are less impressive on this side. A steep climb takes you over the last hill to a junction on the flat.

(6) Reach Lac de Pormenaz on the right, after crossing a hill that hides it from view.

(7) Return to this intersection.

(6) Turn right onto the path to the refuge on the ridge, enjoying the view of Mont Blanc and the Aiguilles Rouges on your left.
Stop at the Chalet Hôtel de Moëde Anterne (E).

Good shoes and walking poles are recommended for the climb after the Monthieux ravine.
You can bring your swimsuit and towel if the weather is nice and you don't mind the cool water. The refuge and its hot shower are very close to Lac de Pormenaz.
Please arrive at the Chalet de Moëde-Anterne before 6.30pm, when dinner is served (a little earlier if you wish to use the shower).

Described as the first part of a two-day tour, this walk can also be the first stage of a 3- or 4-day tour of Les Fiz.
Beautiful views of the Mont Blanc massif and, from the eastern slope of the Ravin des Monthieux, the Massif des Bauges... Weather permitting, of course.