When the mountains are dressed in gold, copper, and rust, Haute-Savoie becomes a vast living painting. In early November, the season of long hikes gives way to contemplative strolls, ideal for enjoying the last flames of autumn before the arrival of snow. Here is a selection of the most beautiful walks to do with family or friends to marvel at the colors of the season.
1. The Glières Plateau: a sea of mist and golden forests
Perched at 1,400 meters altitude, the Glières Plateau offers a striking spectacle in November. Between peat bogs, blazing beech forests, and still-green pastures, the landscapes here are of rare serenity.
The trail leading to the Resistance monument forms an easy loop of about 1h30, ideal for a late morning outing. Along the way, the mist slowly dissipates, revealing the silhouettes of the Bauges and the Parmelan.
- Start : parking lot of the Glières Monument
- Duration : 1h30 to 2h
- Level : easy
2. The tour of Vallon Lake at Bellevaux: an autumn mirror
Hidden in the heart of Chablais, Vallon Lake is a little gem formed following a landslide in the 17th century. Surrounded by cliffs and forests, it beautifully reflects the autumn colors.
The trail that circles it is accessible to all and particularly photogenic in the morning, when the lake’s surface is still motionless.
- Location : Bellevaux
- Duration : 1h
- Level : very easy
3. Andey Peak: the panorama over the Arve valley
From Brison or Petit-Bornand, the climb to Andey Peak (1,870 m) is a short hike (about 1h15 ascent) but offers a magnificent view of the Bargy, the Solaison Plateau, and the snow-capped summits of Mont Blanc.
In November, the forests take on honey hues and the first snows already dust the ridges. A splendid contrast, typically Haute-Savoie.
- Start : Solaison Plateau
- Total duration : 2h30 round trip
- Level : moderate
4. The Foron trail at La Chapelle-d’Abondance: the charm of the damp woods
This trail runs alongside the Foron River and winds through meadows and undergrowth carpeted with fallen leaves. Children love its succession of small wooden bridges and shaded areas.
One breathes a soothing, almost magical atmosphere here, with the Dent du Midi sometimes already snow-capped in the background.
- Start : tourist office of La Chapelle-d’Abondance
- Duration : 1h30
- Level : easy
5. The Bout-du-Lac Nature Reserve of Annecy: autumn by the lake
In Doussard, the Bout-du-Lac of Annecy is a protected site where nature fully expresses itself in autumn. The boardwalk trail crosses reedbeds, wetlands, and alluvial forests with blazing leaves.
It is also an ideal time to observe migratory birds before their great departure.
- Access : Bout-du-Lac parking in Doussard
- Duration : 1h
- Level : very easy, stroller accessible
6. The Joux Plane pass: sunset on Mont Blanc
Between Morzine and Samoëns, the road to the Joux Plane Pass offers an exceptional view of Mont Blanc. In November, the low evening light sets the mountain pastures ablaze.
A short walk around the pass lake allows you to admire the snow-capped chain in almost total silence.
- Access : from Samoëns (if the road remains open)
- Duration : 30 min to 1h
- Level : easy
Tips for your autumn walks
- Bring waterproof shoes: paths can be damp.
- Check the weather before leaving, some mountain roads close early.
- Enjoy the morning or late afternoon light, the best for photos.
- End your walk with a Savoyard snack: blueberry tart, hot chocolate, or local cheese in an open refuge.
In early November, Haute-Savoie shows a calm and magnificent face. Tourists are rare, villages take a breath, and the landscapes dress in a thousand shades of gold. Whether you are a panorama lover, a photographer, or just a walker, these walks are invitations to enjoy the calm before winter.
