I will never forget the first time I crossed this peaceful pass, lulled by the distant sound of a cowbell. Before me, wooden chalets stood as if asleep under the morning mist, and the smell of fresh hay floated in the air. I felt like the only visitor to a place out of time, where every path invited adventure and discovery.
An almost unreal setting
Rounding a bend, the mountain unfolds like an amphitheater: vibrant meadows, rocky massifs sculpted by trade winds, and spruce forests where, at times, a curious chamois can be glimpsed. Here, no queues at the lifts, but breathtaking panoramas without artifice. Every step on the marked trails echoes like an invitation to freedom.
Traditions carved in stone
At the very top, a bulbous bell tower stands out against the sky. Beneath its arcades, a centuries-old granary houses a market where local farmers present their reblochon AOP, still warm from the morning milking. The creaking of old floorboards and the laughter of artisans tell you the story of a preserved land, a know-how passed down from generation to generation.
Thrills and discoveries
The suspense reaches its peak when, after a day of balcony hiking, the horizon bursts into flames under the last rays of the sun. A secret viewpoint, made of moss-covered rocks and twisted junipers, reveals itself against a magnificent panorama. You would think you could touch the peaks by reaching out your hand; and that is when you understand why all the effort of the climb is worth every drop of sweat.
My stay at the heart of the mystery
During my stay, I slept in an old restored farm, whose brick-red shutters contrasted with the whiteness of the surrounding mountains. In the evening, by lantern light, I shared a fondue with locals, recounting my day’s adventures and listening to their stories of yesteryear. This warm and authentic atmosphere made me feel part of a large mountain family.
This little gem is the village of Grand‑Bornand, perched at 1,000 m altitude in the massif des Aravis. A family Alpine village that has always nurtured an authentic atmosphere, far from the bustle of large resorts. Here, the wooden facades blend into the mountains, shopkeepers welcome you like neighbors, and Alpine panoramas invite contemplation. Discover why this family village deserves all your attention.
Practical information
- Access :
- By car : from Annecy (45 km), take the D909 towards Thônes then the D6 to Grand‑Bornand.
- By train : nearest station in Annecy, then shuttle or taxi (about 1 hour journey).
- By plane : Geneva airport 100 km away (1 hour 15 minutes by road).
- Accommodation :
- Chalets and charming farm cottages.
- “Station Village” hotels and family residences near the slopes.
- Tourist office :
- Place de l’Église, 74450 Le Grand‑Bornand Village
- Tel.: +33 4 50 02 24 14
- Website: www.legrand-bornand.com
- Recommended period :
- Summer : mid-June to late September for hiking, mountain biking, paragliding, and festivals.
- Winter : December to mid-April for skiing and snow activities.
Mountain traditions and festive atmosphere
Beyond sports activities, Le Grand‑Bornand brings its land and culture to life:
- Agropastoralism: first agricultural commune of Haute‑Savoie, with more than 30 alpine farms, and farmhouse reblochon AOP produced daily before your eyes.
- Festivals and events: “Au Bonheur des Mômes” at the end of August, a festival for young and old, “Fête du Bois” in winter, or night markets under the fir trees in summer.
- Excellence labels: “Famille Plus” and “Station Village” resorts, ensuring personalized welcome, childcare on the slopes, and activities adapted to all ages.
Le Grand‑Bornand stands out for preserving its heritage, with constructions always respectful of Alpine architecture and a successful balance between modernity and traditions.
