Trail in autumn

 

It is said that autumn is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful seasons to discover Haute-Savoie. The forests take on colors and the trails empty of the summer crowd to make way for the tranquility of nature. Whether you are a fan of Sunday strolls or rather sporty hiking, here are 5 hiking ideas in Haute-Savoie that you absolutely must do this autumn. 

 

  1. 1. The End of the World from the Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval Cirque 

View of Sixt

 

A postcard-like setting on a trail surrounded by cliffs and crossed by rivers, ending at a beautiful waterfall. Close to the Swiss border, this hike in a loop of 9km for 400m of elevation gain can also be done as a round trip without going through the heights to take the whole family.

In brief: 

  • Distance & elevation gain : 9 km – 400 m D+ (loop) / 6 km round trip easier 
  • Difficulty : Easy to moderate 
  • Highlights : Vertiginous cliffs, rivers, spectacular waterfalls at the end of the trail.
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  • Practical tips:

  • Ideal for families if you choose the more accessible round trip. 
  • Be sure to wear good shoes, as the trail can be wet in autumn. 
  • Best time: in the morning to enjoy the light and avoid the cold of the shade. 
  • Easy parking at the Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval Cirque.

 

2. The Lake of Pormenaz and The Black Point 

Lake of Pormenaz

 

In search of a change of scenery in a quiet place? Located in the Passy nature reserve, this medium difficulty route takes you to Lake Pormenaz at 1945m altitude, passing through forest paths, pretty waterfalls and a magnificent view of the Aravis mountain range. At the top, a panorama of the Black Point and the Fiz cliff makes it an unforgettable outing of 12 km for 920m of elevation gain in autumn colors.

In brief:  

  • Distance & elevation gain : 12 km – 920 m D+ 
  • Difficulty : Moderate to sporty 
  • Highlights : High-altitude lake at 1945 m, waterfalls, forests, grandiose panorama of the Fiz and the Aravis mountain range. 

Practical tips : 

  • Plan for 5 to 6 hours of round trip walking. 
  • Bring warm clothing: at altitude, temperatures drop quickly in autumn. 
  • Accessibility: not recommended for very young children, but perfect for regular hikers. 
  • Possibility to combine with the Black Point for an even more spectacular panorama.

 

 3. The Angon Waterfall Loop

Angon Waterfall

 

A must-see in Haute-Savoie, it is of course Lake Annecy that can be admired from the trails of this loop. A very accessible walk through the forest on the heights of the lake leading to the magnificent Angon Waterfall. A 2km hike for an immersion in nature. To enjoy the scenery longer and add a little elevation gain, you can take the circuit of the Fairy Bridge from the shores of Lake Annecy.

In brief:  

  • Distance & elevation gain : 2 km – very low elevation gain (option: 5 km with the Fairy Bridge) 
  • Difficulty : Very easy 
  • Highlights : Impressive waterfall, forest trails, views of Lake Annecy. 

Practical tips : 

  • Accessible for families and with children. 
  • Plan for non-slip shoes, as the path can be slippery around the waterfall. 
  • If you want to extend, opt for the Fairy Bridge circuit starting from the lake. 
  • Perfect for a half-day or a digestive walk after a meal by the lake. 

 

4. Climbing the Lanfonnet

The Lanfonnet

 

The Lanfonnet is one of the peaks of Haute-Savoie that is part of the private club of peaks overlooking Lake Annecy. Neighboring the famous Tournette, the Lanfonnet is a more accessible and less frequented alternative but requires a good pair of shoes. Through the alpine pastures, this 6 km hike with 600m of elevation gain is a beautiful ascent with breathtaking panoramas of Lake Annecy. 

In brief:  

  • Distance & elevation gain : 6 km – 600 m D+ 
  • Difficulty : Moderate 
  • Highlights : Panorama of Lake Annecy, alpine pastures and clear views, less frequented alternative to the Tournette. 

Practical tips : 

  • Plan for 3 to 4 hours round trip. 
  • Trail can be steep: good shoes are mandatory. 
  • Best enjoyed in clear weather to appreciate the view. 
  • Parking at the Forclaz pass or nearby depending on the chosen route. 

 

5.The Cross of the Black Head 

The cross of the black head

 

After the Aravis mountain range, the hike starts from the small village of Cordon to wind between forests and alpine pastures. It ends with a breathtaking view of the Mont-Blanc massif above the Arve valley. A 5km hike with 500m of elevation gain with a viewpoint that is worth sweating a bit on the steep ascent. 

In brief:  

  • Distance & elevation gain : 5 km – 500 m D+ 
  • Difficulty : Moderate (steep ascent) 
  • Highlights : Superb viewpoint on Mont-Blanc, crossing forests and alpine pastures, guaranteed autumn atmosphere. 

Practical tips : 

  • Plan for 2.5 to 3 hours of walking. 
  • Ideal in clear weather to admire Mont-Blanc. 
  • Dress warmly: the Arve valley can be cool in autumn. 
  • Possibility to combine the hike with a visit to the charming village of Cordon.

 

Enjoy the beautiful autumn landscapes of Haute-Savoie, and if a little rain comes to join the walk, don’t leave without your raincoat! We guide you in your choice with the following article:The best waterproof and breathable jackets for mid-season 

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