Ascent to the Mountain Pastures

Flagship event of Haute Savoie, and of all mountain territories, the alpine pasture ascents continue a well-rooted tradition in our Alpine mountains. During the months of May and June, enjoy the ascents to the Alpine pastures with your family and discover nature and Savoyard traditions.

What is an alpine pasture?

An alpine pasture is a natural high-altitude meadow. It hosts the herds from the valleys throughout the summer to graze on fresh good grass and enjoy unlimited pure air! Alpine pastures are the essential complement of the farms in our valleys. The alpine pastures are divided into vast parcels that can each span several hundred hectares, and which are occupied by the herds progressively as the pastures develop.

How do the ascents to the alpine pastures take place?

Accompany the herds from the farms to the alpine pastures at altitude and enjoy a rewarding day. Throughout the ascent to the alpine pastures, you will be able to talk with local breeders, discover their work and their environment. They will be happy to answer all your questions. Once you arrive at the alpine pasture, you will often be able to enjoy a tasting of local products, especially in our mountains, the essential farmhouse reblochon cheese.

Practical information for the ascent to the alpine pastures

The ascent to the alpine pastures is primarily a fairly physical work, the herd’s pace sometimes quite fast, so it is essential to be in good condition. Similarly, it is essential to be equipped with good shoes and appropriate gear.

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An important point, even though breeders love animals, to avoid disturbing the herds dogs are prohibited during the ascents to the alpine pastures, even on a leash.

Tentative dates for the 2025 alpine pasture ascents

Few dates for now, we will update as we make new discoveries.

Departure municipalityTentative datesElevation differenceDistanceInformation
La ClusazSaturday 10 May500m6.5 kmshttps://saveurs-des-aravis.fr/
Les Clefs / SerravalFriday 23 May 300m3 kmshttps://saveurs-des-aravis.fr/
Praz de LysSaturday 7 June 2025https://www.fermeaubergeduprazdelys.fr/
VaillyJune – date to be determinedhttps://www.facebook.com/people/Association-des-parents-d%C3%A9l%C3%A8ves-de-Vailly/100064777534449/
Contact and reservation mandatory. Most alpine pasture ascents are paid events.

Last update: 05/12/25

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