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 routes, 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 station, set out to conquer Lac Blanc and the Lacs des Chéserys. Over eight kilometers round trip, the trail winds between flowered alpine pastures and turquoise waters with almost supernatural reflections. Sometimes, cables secure the steeper passages, but the reward lies in the magnificent panorama of Mont-Blanc that opens up to you. In June or September, when the crowd is discreet, the silence is broken only by the marmots’ song and the wind’s breath.
The plus: A breathtaking spectacle on 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 into a shady forest before opening onto an alpine meadow, ideal for a family picnic. On the horizon, the cliffs of the Cirque de Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval rise majestically, inviting contemplation and daydreaming. A simple walk, yet oh so refreshing.
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 ascends exposed ridges where chains and exposed passages raise the adrenaline. At the summit, a circular view stretches over Lake Léman, the Swiss Alps, and Mont-Blanc. Unforgettable for any seasoned hiker seeking thrills and controlled vertigo.
The plus: A breathtaking view of Lake Léman, Mont Blanc, and surrounding mountains.
Difficulty: Difficult
4. La Tournette – Talloires-Montmin
La Tournette, iconic peak of the Bornes, towers over Lake Annecy with its full height. The demanding ascent crosses lush alpine pastures, scree fields, and cable-secured passages before reaching the ridge. Up there, the view plunges over Lake Annecy, while Mont-Blanc silhouettes on the horizon. Climbing La Tournette offers an intense alpine adventure reserved for experienced hikers.
The plus: A unique view of Lake Annecy and Mont-Blanc as a backdrop.
Difficulty: Difficult
5. Lacs d’Anterne and de Pormenaz – Passy
In the wild setting of the Passy nature reserve, this twelve-kilometer loop connects two glacial gems. Lac d’Anterne, a natural mirror facing Mont-Blanc, and the discreet Lac de Pormenaz, nestled under the Rochers des Fiz, offer a soothing atmosphere. The bubbling Souay stream on the return adds a refreshing touch to this outing, ideal for intermediate hikers seeking variety.
The plus: Two majestic glacial lakes and moderate crowds.
Difficulty: Intermediate
6. Cascade d’Angon – Talloires
A few minutes from Lake Annecy, the Cascade d’Angon trail crosses a fragrant forest before reaching a dizzying 35-meter waterfall. A passage carved into the rock, equipped with chains, will delight thrill seekers. The walk, short but intense, perfectly combines with a swim on the way back for a refreshing and memorable morning.
The plus: A spectacular waterfall and an unbeatable view of Lake Annecy.
Difficulty: Intermediate7. Lac Bénit – Mont-Saxonnex
Little known to visitors, Lac Bénit rests peacefully at the foot of the Bargy massif. Over five kilometers, the gradual ascent reveals intact nature, where tranquility reigns supreme. Accessible from spring, this preserved site appeals to families and beginners, far from the hustle and bustle of nearby major sites.
The plus: A little-known haven of peace, ideal for mountain hiking beginners.
Difficulty: EasyTo read: Hiking at Lac Bénit
8. Cirque du Fer-à-Cheval and Bout du Monde – Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval
Cirque du Fer-à-Cheval, an immense natural amphitheater, impresses with its vertiginous cliffs and thirty cascading waterfalls. The easy, accessible trail leads to Bout du Monde, a spectacular glacial lock. Here, nature expresses itself with strength and grandeur, inviting contemplation in a postcard-perfect setting.
The plus: One of the most beautiful glacial cirques in Europe, accessible without difficulty.
Difficulty: EasyTo read: Discovering Cirque du Fer-à-Cheval: waterfalls and hikes
9. Le Parmelan – Dingy-Saint-Clair
From Dingy-Saint-Clair, Parmelan unveils 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 delights 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 ascent to Pic de Marcelly at 2,200 meters offers an unmatched viewpoint on the Chablais and Lake Léman. This flexible hike adapts well to both families and more experienced walkers, each finding their joy.
The plus: A flexible route between gentle pastures and exceptional panoramas.
Difficulty: EasyTo read: Lac de Roy
Practical advice 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 thunderstorms often arrive early afternoon. Start early and check mountain weather before departure.
- Ideal period: From 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 list of equipment to bring
- The guide to good hiking practices
- Tour du Mont Blanc: complete guide to preparing your hike
On the road to adventure!
Whether drawn to dizzying heights or the gentle charm 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 the valley is wrapped in silence. There is nothing more invigorating than that sensation of freedom, feet touching the earth, heart beating to the rhythm of the mountains.
So, ready to discover these alpine jewels in 2026?
