Villaz walks

An easy, shaded walk with two waterfalls along the way. Ideal for families and on hot days, with a beautiful view of the Parmelan.

It is undoubtedly its proximity to Annecy that makes this mountain a place where hikers can find comfort after a more or less strenuous hike.

The tour of Montagne de Lachat, above Dingy-Saint-Clair (near Annecy), is a very pretty hike that is ideal for families, for example: a wooded trail and, from the summit, views of Annecy and Les Bauges. Possible in all seasons, safe in winter.

This is a lovely little outing from the hamlet of La Blonnière. It is a pleasant walk, even in summer, because although the slope faces south, the route is quite shady. In winter, it can be more complicated, as we are still at an altitude of 1,000 metres and there is often snow.

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.

A lovely hike above La Blonnière, with the Parmelan cliffs as a backdrop; superb view from the Pertuis ridge overlooking the slopes above Grand Bois to the west.

A long traverse along the ridges of Mont Veyrier and Mont Baret, a visit to the Grotte des Sarrazins, and a return via the Biclop. Magnificent views of Lake Annecy and the Aravis mountain range. ⚠️ A by-law issued by the municipalities of Annecy and Veyrier-du-Lac prohibits motorised vehicles from accessing the Col des Contrebandiers and Pré Vernet. Some sections require caution as the path runs along the edge of a cliff, just a few metres away in places. The route to the Grotte des Sarrazins includes a section with a cable and a drop-off.

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

A nature trail with a few information boards and explanations about the wildlife and forest. Two picnic areas with tables. The viewpoint from the belvedere is lovely, with views of the Dent du Cruet and the lake.

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.

A family walk in a circular route around the small village of Cuvat, through the countryside and undergrowth, along the Viéran and Genon streams. Moderator's warning on 25/08/2020: Please note! A GPS device may be useful for this walk (see reviews).

From Dingy-Saint-Clair, I suggest you head to the Tête à Turpin and then on to the Mont Téret plateau, enjoying beautiful scenery and numerous viewpoints along the way. Please note, this is a challenging hike: there are difficulties on a few tricky sections requiring caution in exposed areas, and the route is not always easy to follow. Please read the description and practical information.

Mont Veyrier proudly overlooks Lake Annecy and offers magnificent views. The Sentier des Crêtes trail allows you to walk from north to south, from Col des Sauts to Vallon des Contrebandiers. The proposed circular route reduces the distance by starting from Hameau de la Combe, in the centre of the western slope, with two somewhat steep passages at the ends of the ridge trail.

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.

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 walk through the woods between Veyrier-du-Lac and the Col de Bluffy, via the Col des Contrebandiers.Best done in winter when the trees have shed their leaves to enjoy the views over Lake Annecy. ⚠️ 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 hike with many remarkable views.

A short but challenging hike starting from Veyrier-du-Lac, leading to one of the most beautiful views of Lake Annecy. Short in distance and with little elevation gain, but featuring a vertiginous final section with a safety cable. Since the cave was opened, the view over Lake Annecy and the Bauges massif has been exceptional.Strongly not recommended for those prone to vertigo, or in wet weather. Suitable only for walkers comfortable with exposed terrain.

Mont Veyrier is one of the mountains most familiar to residents of the Annecy region: I suggest you explore it from north to south.Please note that the route includes a few tricky sections: see below for details. ⚠️ A decree issued by the municipalities of Annecy and Veyrier-du-Lac prohibits motorised vehicles from accessing the Col des Contrebandiers and the Pré Vernet.

From the Vallée de la Fillière, I suggest you visit a little-frequented area of the Plateau du Parmelan, located to its north-east. This route, which is rather "wild" in places, winds its way through pretty landscapes with some beautiful views towards the Montagne de Sous-Dine and the Plateau des Glières. Along the way, there are three caves that are worth checking out. Please note that this route presents some difficulties: rough terrain, steep slopes and orientation issues.For more details, see below and, in particular, the Practical Information section.

Starting from the Fillière Valley, I suggest a lovely circular trail to the south-west of the Glières Plateau, through sometimes wild surroundings, with some beautiful views along the way: the trail leads successively to three peaks (Tête Noire, Tête Ronde and Tête d'Arpettaz), then after a short passage through the Gorge d'Ablon, it joins the Mont Téret sector via the Croix du Bénitier.Please note that a little caution is required on the few sections of sharp limestone pavement you will cross.

Starting from Usillon, I suggest you head for the Montagne de Sous-Dîne, taking in various lovely views along the way. The route, which is relatively easy, first takes you to the Belvédère de La Pierre Taillée and the Col de l’Enclave, then returns via the Col de Landron.

An urban circuit dedicated to water, exploring the narrow streets and passageways of the "Venice of the Alps". A rich heritage and beautiful views of the lake and surrounding peaks await you.

A beautiful, steep hike that follows a stream through the forest before arriving at a small alpine valley, then on a ridge where you can enjoy the view of the lake.

Discover the old town of Annecy from one of the car parks in the Semnoz Massif after walking along the lake shore. This first part of the hike is not very relaxing but allows you to observe the birds, which are not very shy, and enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. After a walk along the city's canals, return through the quieter forest on the ridge, passing by two viewpoints that unfortunately face west.

Hike with 360° panoramic views from the Jura to Mont Blanc, ridge route, beautiful route in magnificent surroundings. Caution: at (S/E) and (5), see important recommendations in the practical information section.

The route via the Pas du Roc – a path carved into the rock, well secured – offers a magnificent view of the waterfall, which can be reached via a short detour. After the Pas du Roc viewpoint, at a junction at a place called La Source, a short circular route begins via the Montagne des Frêtes to the Champ Laitier valley, which you will then descend to return to your starting point.

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.

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.

From La Balme-de-Thuy, I suggest you take a lovely walk around the southern part of Mont Téret via the Col de la Bourse, Les Grands Prés and the Col du Pertuis. This is a fairly challenging route in terms of distance and elevation, with a few difficulties, mainly on the Passage de la Bourse.

A very scenic hike in the Annecy region, taking you to the northern tip of the Dents de Lanfon, set in unspoilt countryside and exceptional scenery. From the summit, there are superb views, particularly of Lake Annecy, the Tête à Turpin and the Grandes Lanches (Dent du Cruet).Please note: a helmet is recommended due to the risk of rockfalls.

I suggest a circular route from the foot of the Dents de Laffon to the Pointe de Talamarche, all set against a backdrop of beautiful and varied scenery.There are challenging sections in two areas:- below the Dents de Lanfon in the scree slope: moderate navigation in an area exposed to rockfalls.- access to the Trou de la Chapelle: sections equipped with chains and rungs,A torch is strongly recommended for the crossing of the Grotte de la Chapelle. This route is best undertaken outside periods when snow is present and ideally on dry ground.Please read the Practical Information carefully.Three alternative routes are available: please also read the practical information.

A summit without any major difficulties overlooking Lake Annecy!

A beautiful hike on the right bank of Lake Annecy. It will take you to the paragliding launch site and then to the pretty village of Talloires.

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.

Short, easy walk with some interesting views.

Starting from the hamlet of Vovray, this is an easy walk, mostly shaded, with superb views of the town of Seynod and the Annecy basin.

A beautiful loop with views of the magnificent Lake Annecy

This forest walk takes you through very contrasting natural environments. Crossing the Roc de Chère, you pass from alpine to Mediterranean environments. Flora and fauna of opposing affinities find refuge on this rocky outcrop overlooking Lake Annecy.

A pleasant walk along the Nant du Sappey, followed by a fairly steep climb to the Refuge de la Têtaz, offering a beautiful view over the Thônes valley.

A pleasant hike through the forest covering the slopes of Semnoz, a mountain overlooking Lake Annecy on its western shore. Superb views of the lake and its surroundings are on the menu.

A walk offering spectacular views in good weather.

A very beautiful hike with a 360° view from the summit; a fairly long circular route that is technically very challenging. The route alternates between woodland and the sharp limestone pavement, followed by a fairly technical descent to the Col du Câble, featuring a very difficult section. This is followed by a fairly easy descent to the Chalet de Balme, then along a track suitable for vehicles, and through woodland. Please note: an exposed section at the Col du Câble is reserved for experienced walkers who do not suffer from vertigo.

The Sous-Dîne plateau, whose summit is just under 2,000 m, offers a magnificent view of the cliffs that form it. The Aravis and Mont Blanc massifs seem close enough to touch.

Discover the whole of Lake Annecy from this rock in Charvines between Menthon-Saint-Bernard and Talloires, which is home to a magnificent golf course.

Close to Montagne de Sous-Dîne, a lovely route through magnificent scenery. Nature is dressed in its finest and offers us a symphony of autumnal colours. The route between Col de Landron and Col de l’Enclave takes you through a superb, fairly wild environment and an explosion of colours in the trees.

A short, easy walk along a pleasant, shaded path offering two beautiful views of Lake Annecy.

A hike offering beautiful views of the Pointe de Sous-Dine and the Roche Parnal, the access route to the Col de Spée and the Glières Massif. The view also extends to the Jura, the Salève and Lake Geneva.

Here is a double circular route that stays at low altitude, making it suitable for all seasons. It first takes you on a Land Art route at the Ferme de Chosal, then follows the right bank of the Usses upstream to the Ponts de la Caille, passing by the former thermal spa site of the Bains de la Caille, before returning along the wooded left bank.

This beautiful circular hike begins in a beech forest that may seem quite steep but is well marked. The alpine pastures, which are full of flowers until mid-summer, quickly come into view. You may encounter ibex on the Crête des Trévelles. The summit is easily reached and offers a beautiful 360° panorama. The descent to Pas de l'Aulp can be daunting but is very well protected.

A summit with few visitors, offering exceptional views across the entire Aravis range, La Tournette and the Mont Blanc massif. At the Pointe de Talamarche, there are also fine views of the Dents de Lanfon. After the gruelling climb from Montremont to the Refuge de Larrieux, enjoy a welcome break at this pleasant spot before continuing your ascent.

Walk starting from the Chosal farm, including the Land Art trail and its twenty or so installations in the heart of nature.

Starting from Montremont, I suggest you follow a lovely route on the Montagne de la Tournette, taking in numerous viewpoints: the ascent is via the Col de Frêtes de Rosairy, where you are unlikely to encounter many people, then the return via the classic route from the Chalet de l’Aulp – which can be quite busy – before reaching the Col des Nantets. The challenges lie in the elevation gain and distance, but above all in certain exposed sections requiring caution: ⚠️ Please take full note of the explanations and warnings in the ‘Practical Information’ section.