Haute-Savoie, an Alpine jewel with many facets, holds a wealth of trails promising escape. Between sparkling glaciers, suspended lakes, and limestone ridges, each mountain range reveals its character. Whether you are an adventure enthusiast or a contemplative walker, let yourself be guided to the heart of ten unforgettable itineraries, tested and approved for the 2026 season. Prepare to feel, vibrate, breathe, and marvel at the preserved nature of this region where every step tells a story.
1. Lac Blanc and Lacs des Chéserys – Chamonix
From the La Flégère lift station, set off to conquer Lac Blanc and the Lacs des Chéserys. Over eight kilometers round trip, the trail winds through flowery alpine pastures and turquoise waters with almost supernatural reflections. Sometimes cables secure the steeper passages, but the reward is the grand panorama of Mont-Blanc that unfolds before you. In June or September, when crowds are thin, the silence is only broken by marmots’ songs and the wind’s breath.
The plus: A striking spectacle of the Mont-Blanc massif, from crystalline high-altitude lakes.
Difficulty: Intermediate
2. Lac de Gers – Samoëns
Accessible to all from spring, the Lac de Gers trail offers a peaceful immersion in a shaded forest before opening onto an alpine meadow, ideal for a family picnic. On the horizon, the cliffs of the Sixt-Fer-Ă -Cheval Cirque rise majestically, inviting contemplation and daydreaming. A simple stroll, yet so rejuvenating.
The plus: A bucolic paradise, perfect for families.
Difficulty: Easy
3. Dent d’Oche – Bernex
Dent d’Oche, proud sentinel of the Chablais, peaks at 2221m. From Bernex, the trail climbs quickly, crosses the Oche chalets, then rises along airy ridges where chains and exposed passages raise adrenaline levels. At the summit, a circular view spreads across Lake Geneva, the Swiss Alps, and Mont-Blanc. Unforgettable for any experienced hiker seeking thrills and controlled vertigo.
The plus: A breathtaking view of Lake Geneva, Mont Blanc, and the surrounding mountains.
Difficulty: Difficult
4. La Tournette – Talloires-Montmin
La Tournette, iconic peak of the Bornes, towers over Lake Annecy in full height. The demanding ascent crosses verdant alpine pastures, scree slopes, and cable-secured sections before reaching the ridge. Up there, the view plunges onto Lake Annecy, while Mont-Blanc profiles on the horizon. Climbing La Tournette is an intense Alpine adventure reserved for seasoned hikers.
The plus: A unique view of Lake Annecy and Mont-Blanc as a backdrop.
Difficulty: Difficult
5. Lacs d’Anterne and Pormenaz – Passy
In the wild setting of Passy nature reserve, this 12-kilometer loop connects two glacial gems. Lac d’Anterne, a natural mirror facing Mont-Blanc, and the discreet Lac de Pormenaz, nestled beneath the Rochers des Fiz, offer a calming atmosphere. The Souay stream, bubbling on the way back, adds a refreshing touch to this getaway, ideal for intermediate hikers seeking variety.
The plus: Two majestic glacial lakes and moderate attendance.
Difficulty: Intermediate
6. Cascade d’Angon – Talloires
Just minutes from Lake Annecy, the Cascade d’Angon trail runs through a fragrant forest before opening onto a vertiginous 35-meter waterfall. A passage carved into the rock, equipped with chains, will thrill thrill-seekers. The walk, short but intense, pairs perfectly with a swim on the return for a refreshing and memorable morning.
The plus: A spectacular waterfall and an unobstructed view of Lake Annecy.
Difficulty: Intermediate7. Lac Bénit – Mont-Saxonnex
Little known to visitors, Lac BĂ©nit rests peacefully at the foot of the Bargy massif. Over five kilometers, the gradual climb reveals untouched nature, where tranquility reigns supreme. Accessible from spring, this preserved site appeals to families and beginners, far from the bustle of nearby major sites.
The plus: A little-known haven of peace, ideal for mountain hiking initiation.
Difficulty: EasyTo read: Hiking at Lac BĂ©nit
8. Cirque du Fer-à -Cheval and Bout du Monde – Sixt-Fer-à -Cheval
The Cirque du Fer-Ă -Cheval, a vast natural amphitheater, impresses with its vertiginous cliffs and thirty cascading waterfalls. The trail, easy and accessible to all, leads to Bout du Monde, a spectacular glacial lock. Here, nature expresses itself with strength and grandeur, inviting contemplation in a postcard setting.
The plus: One of Europe’s most beautiful glacial cirques, accessible without difficulty.
Difficulty: EasyTo read: Discover the Cirque du Fer-Ă -Cheval: waterfalls and hikes
9. Le Parmelan – Dingy-Saint-Clair
From Dingy-Saint-Clair, Parmelan reveals a fascinating world of beech forests, limestone lapiaz, and panoramic ridges. At the summit, the view extends over Lake Annecy and Mont-Blanc, offering one of the most beautiful perspectives in all of Haute-Savoie. This karst plateau amazes both amateur geologists and lovers of unusual landscapes.
The plus: A spectacular setting and an exceptional view of Lake Annecy.
Difficulty: Intermediate
10. Lac de Roy and Pic de Marcelly – Praz de Lys
From Praz de Lys, the loop to Lac de Roy, peaceful and surrounded by alpine pastures, is suitable for all. For the more daring, the climb up to Pic de Marcelly at two thousand two meters offers an incomparable viewpoint over the Chablais and Lake Geneva. This adaptable hike suits both families and more experienced walkers, each finding their joy.
The plus: A flexible itinerary between soft pastures and exceptional panoramas.
Difficulty: EasyTo read: Lac de Roy
Practical tips for successful hikes in Haute-Savoie
- Equipment: Plan for high-cut hiking boots, telescopic poles, and a backpack of twenty-five to thirty-five liters. Always bring a waterproof jacket and at least one and a half liters of water.
- Maps and apps: IGN TOP25 series maps and GPS apps (AllTrails, Komoot) are valuable allies, especially on challenging routes.
- Weather: Summer storms often arrive early afternoon. Leave early and check mountain weather before departure.
- Ideal period: June to September for high-altitude hikes, May and October for low-altitude trails. September remains the dream month to enjoy golden light and regained tranquility.
To read:
- Day hike: the complete packing list
- The guide to good hiking practices
- Tour du Mont Blanc: complete guide to preparing your hike
On the road to adventure!
Whether you are drawn to dizzying heights or the gentleness of alpine lakes, Haute-Savoie promises you unforgettable memories.
I had the chance to walk some of these trails at sunrise when the mist still caresses the peaks and silence envelops the valley. There is nothing more invigorating than this feeling of freedom, feet treading the earth, heart beating to the rhythm of the mountains.
So, ready to discover these Alpine gems in 2026?
Article mis Ă jour le 24 April 2026
