Hiking in the mountains is a sporting activity for all ages. The massifs around Annecy offer itineraries for all levels. We propose to share with you this taste for effort to discover nature.
The 6 most beautiful hikes near Annecy
We offer you our selection of hikes to do in the surrounding mountains. There are many others, but these have the particularity of having a magnificent view of the mountains and lake of Annecy. You may also have the opportunity to meet the fauna of the Haute-Savoie.
La Tournette
Type : LoopDeparture : Car park of the Chalet de l’Aulp – 74210 MontminAltitude Departure : 1424 mAltitude Arrival : 1424 mMaximum altitude : 2351 mLa Tournette is a mountain range overlooking Lake Annecy with a peak culminating at an altitude of 2351 metres.
La Tournette from the Chalet de l’Aulp
But the reward will be a 360° panorama of Lake Annecy, the Mont Blanc, the Aravis, the Pointe Perçée, the Bauges… It is frequent to cross ibexes. To get to the top of the mountain, there are two tricky passages where it is better to have a rope.
This walk is rather reserved for hikers looking for a bit of sensation and not being too afraid of heights, or some passages might seem tricky. The path is nevertheless well secured with the presence of chains and ladders at the most delicate passages.
La Tournette on snowshoes
However, the mountain is a wild place and we recommend that you be accompanied by a guide to carry out this type of outing or, failing that, that you prepare your hike well in advance.
After heavy snowfalls, the presence of holes or “Lapiaz”, sometimes several tens of metres long, which are hidden from the feet of skiers and hikers can be dangerous.
La Tournette Refuge
A spring above the refuge allows you to fill your water bottle.
The Semnoz plateau
The reward is the view, on a clear day, of Lake Annecy and Mont Blanc. The hike can be done in winter with snowshoes.
Mont Veyrier
A magnificent view of the Bauges massif and Lake Annecy awaits you.
The Col de la Forclaz
On arrival, you can admire the numerous paragliding departures and why not take a first paragliding experience.
The departure is from the commune of Montmin following the forest road which allows you to discover an almost Mediterranean vegetation.
The Crêt du Maure and the Grande Jeanne by the Espagnoux
At the various intersections, on the outward journey, follow the dark blue marks and the red marks on the return journey.
You will discover the magnificent panorama of the Belvédère des Écureuils which dominates the Annecy area.
The Cirque Rocheux of Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval
In the Haut-Giffre massif, starting from Passy, you will discover the Lac Vert and the Lac de Pormenaz surrounded by a magnificent forest. These two hikes are perfectly suited for the family.
Two day hikes and more
The route is dotted with refuges, gîtes and guest houses. You can combine walking with the ski lifts and public transport.
Video of the hike to the Aulp de la Tournette chalet
Precautions for hiking
It is important to take some precautions before setting off on a mountain hike:
- Choose well-tried walking shoes that provide good support for the foot.
- Take a small first aid kit.
- Take a map and a telephone (the network is often weak and 4G is unavailable to guide you).
- Depending on the weather, bring warm clothes, as the temperature can drop quickly in the mountains.
- Glasses, hat and sun cream are essential.
- Bring enough water and food for the day.
- It is essential to tell your friends and family that you are going on a hike, in case of difficulties, they will alert the rescue services.
When you check the weather forecast before you leave, you should expect good weather for the whole of the hike and a little afterwards in case of unforeseen events. If you wish to be accompanied, guides or escorts are available to make your experience even more rewarding.
Hiking clubs in Annecy
We recommend the following clubs:
- Les Randonnées Savoyardes : 2550 route d’Entredozon – 74410 Saint-Jorioz Tel : 06.62.47.77.21
- Club Alpin Français d’Annecy: 17 Rue du Mont Blanc, 74000 Annecy
- Gums Annecy: Polyèdre, 4 Impasse Saint-Jean, 74600 Seynod
- Touring Pédestre Annécien: from September to December, the first Thursday of the month from 5pm to 6pm, salle Jumel Quai des Clarisses, Annecy.
- CAF Meythet: 4 rue de l’aérodrome, Meythet, 74960 Annecy