UNSPOILED HIKING TRAILS: Nestled amidst the wild wonders of Haute-Savoie, the Giffre Valley is a paradise for hikers seeking a break from it all. The valley is full of hidden treasures, untouched by the hustle and bustle. Far from the most popular trails, these routes will lead you to unexpected panoramic views and havens of tranquillity. Follow these paths and set off to discover the valley’s hidden gems.

Hike 1: 7 km / 348 m elevation gain / 3 hours / Sixt Fer-à-Cheval.
Difficulty: +

THE CIRQUE DES FONTS

A 3-hour 15-minute loop packed with breathtaking scenery – that’s what the Cirque des Grand Fonts has in store for you. Escape the crowds and let yourself be lulled by the soothing sound of the waterfalls. After the majestic Rouget waterfall, the path winds its way into the Gorges des Fonts, between cliffs and spruce forests. Further up, small waterfalls spring up along the path, adding to the wild atmosphere of the place. After a final stretch of winding path, the Cirque des Fonts reveals itself, vast and unspoilt. Settle down at the refuge and take in the scenery, with the silence of the mountains as your only sound.

Hike 2: 11 km / 728 m elevation gain / 4½ hours Sixt Fer-à-Cheval. Difficulty: +

LES PRAZ DE COMMUNE

Nestled beneath the imposing rock face of the Grenier de Communes, Les Praz de Commune are steeped in history and strong traditions. This adventure begins in the hamlet of Passy, which can be reached from the village of Salvagny, at the Nant-sec bridge. From the top of the old ski lift, follow the track which will take you directly to the Mouillettes mountain pastures. You will then reach the Commune mountain pastures before finally arriving at your destination: Les Praz de Commune. For the more adventurous, above Les Praz de Commune, a steep path leads to the Croix de La Frête, a magnificent viewpoint overlooking the Fer-à-Cheval cirque.

Hike 3: 11 km / 890 m elevation gain / 5 hours 15 minutes / Sixt Fer-à-Cheval. Difficulty: ++

THE SALVADON CHALETS

This hike to the Salvadon mountain pasture and chalets starts in the hamlet of Le Crot, near Sixt-Fer à-Cheval. The forest path climbs gradually, offering superb views of the Fiz range, the Dent de Véreux and the Pointe Rousse. As you continue, you enter the Sixt-Passy nature reserve. At an altitude of 1,715 metres, the chalets form a picturesque hamlet nestled at the foot of the Avoudrues, the Pointe de Bellegarde and the Pointe de Sambet. These mountain pastures are still in use today. After your hike, don’t miss a visit to the Ferme des Tines in Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval. There you can discover and buy local produce, including “Salvadon”, an alpine cheese made in the mountain pastures.

Hike 4: 4.8 km / 500 m elevation gain / 4 hours / Difficulty: + / MORILLON

THE VIEILLE MOUNTAIN PASTURE

This fun family walk will delight even the youngest hikers. Suitable for children aged 3 and over, the Alpage de la Vieille is the ideal route for spotting local wildlife: goats, sheep and, with a bit of luck, a few marmots! So don’t forget your binoculars! After crossing a wetland and passing by the Chalet des Fontanettes, the route takes you to Les Feuillerats, where the atmosphere becomes more alpine. The ascent continues to the Croix des 7 Frères, the highlight of the walk, offering an exceptional panorama of the Giffre Valley and the lower Arve Valley. Since last summer, the Morillon cable car has been open, offering you an eco-friendly and convenient alternative to reach the Morillon Les Esserts resort, perched at an altitude of 1,100 metres. In just 7 minutes, it connects the village to the peaks, allowing holidaymakers to make the most of the mountains. Hop on for a breath of fresh air for just €2 per pedestrian!

DIFFICULTY

The trails in the Giffre Mountains offer a variety of difficulty levels to suit all hikers. Whilst some walks, such as the Alpage de la Vieille, are suitable for families and beginners, other trails require more effort, particularly the climbs to the Praz de Commune or the Salvadon chalets.

BEST TIME TO VISIT: June to October

TIPS: Remember to bring a chequebook for the mountain huts, as most do not accept credit cards. And a rain jacket, as the weather changes quickly in the mountains.

ACCESSIBILITY: The Haut-Giffre Tourisme destination enjoys a prime location and excellent access. By train, plane or car via the A40 Blanche motorway, just 2 hours from Lyon, 6 hours from Paris and the south, and 1 hour from Annecy and Geneva.

So, why not give in to the temptation of adventure and set off to discover these unspoilt gems… the Giffre Valley will never cease to amaze you!