Discover the Aravis and beyond: hikes in Haute-Savoie from the Grand-Bornand

Published on 10/06/2025 by CAMPASUN

Welcome to Haute-Savoie, a paradise for mountain lovers! Since your stay at our campsite Campasun Le Clos du Pin au Grand-Bornand, in the heart of the Aravis massif, a multitude of trails are available to you. For an easy walk or a sporting challenge, discover our selection of hikes in Haute-Savoie for all levels, accessible from your campsite.

Ideas for itineraries: discovering the treasures of Haute-Savoie

Here are some hiking ideas, starting with those at the heart of your area, with practical information to help you plan. Keep in mind that the walking times are indicative and travel times depend on conditions.

In the heart of the Aravis (from or near the Grand-Bornand)

Mont Charvin by the Col des Porthets (for experienced hikers): an emblematic ascent of the Aravis! Starting from the hamlet of La Tournance (accessible from Le Grand-Bornand), this demanding route takes you through steep pastures to the lake of Mont Charvin, then to the pass and finally to the summit (2409 m). The effort is rewarded by an absolutely magnificent 360° view of the Aravis range, the Mont Blanc massif in the distance, and the Pointe Percée. It is a sporty hike, with passages that require attention, but what satisfaction at the summit! One of the most memorable hikes in Haute-Savoie for seasoned mountaineers.

• Hiking: approx. 13.4 km/ Approx. 4h00 – 5h00 walking.
• Departure: parking of La Tournance (near Marthod/Ugine).
• Access from Le Grand-Bornand: approx. 45 km/ 45 min – 1 hour drive.

La Boucle du Lac Bénit (family or moderate difficulty): located at the foot of the imposing Bargy range, near Mont-Saxonnex (not far from the Grand-Bornand), Lac Bénit is a very popular hiking destination. The most common route climbs up wide paths (ski slopes in winter) through pastures and forests. Once arrived, the lake is revealed, dominated by impressive limestone cliffs. The panorama on the valley of the Arve below is superb. A nice loop for a half-day with the family or a quiet outing.

• Hike: approx. 6.4 km/ Approx. 1h45 – 2h30 walk.
• Departure: parking near Morsullaz (Mont-Saxonnex).
• Access from Le Grand-Bornand: approx. 38 km/ 50 min – 1h10 drive.

Plateau de Beauregard (easy to medium): accessible from La Clusaz (neighboring village of Grand-Bornand), the Plateau de Beauregard allows easy walks with magnificent views of the Aravis range. It is ideal for a family outing, a picnic in the alpine pastures, or a first approach to local landscapes without major difficulty.

• Hiking: several options, typical loop approx. 5-8 km/ Approx. 1h30 – 3h00 walking.
• Departure: parking at the Col de la Croix Fry or access via gondola from La Clusaz.
• Access from Le Grand-Bornand: Approx. 14 km/ 10 – 20 min drive (very close).

Getaways around Lake Annecy (accessible during the day)

Le Mont Veyrier (medium difficulty): a real balcony above Lake Annecy, this hike reveals some of the most photographed views in the region. Starting from the Bois Jettaz or other points around Annecy-le-Vieux, the trail follows the ridges, alternating forest passages and spectacular views of the turquoise lake, the city of Annecy, and the surrounding mountains (Bornes, Bauges). The descent can be a bit steep in places. A classic of hikes in Haute-Savoie.

• Hike: approx. 8.5 km (according to starting point) / Approx. 2h30 – 3h30 walk.
• Departure: parking of the Pré Vernet, Col des Sauts, or from Annecy-le-Vieux.
• Access from Le Grand-Bornand: approx. 30-35 km/ 35 min – 50 min drive.

La Cascade d’Angon (easy to medium): near Talloires, on the eastern shore of Lake Annecy, this short hike leads to an impressive waterfall that gushes from the cliff. The path crosses a pleasant forest, allowing some escapes on the lake. The finish near the waterfall is spectacular but can be slippery and crowded in summer. Ideal for a refreshing outing during a day at the lake.

• Hiking: approx. 3.7 km/ Approx. 1h00 – 1h30 walk.
• Departure: parking near Angon (Talloires).
• Access from Le Grand-Bornand: approx. 35-40 km/ 45 min – 1 hour drive.

Le Sentier du Roc de Chère (easy): between Menthon-Saint-Bernard and Talloires, this nature reserve offers an easy loop in the forest, well marked and shaded. Several viewpoints reveal beautiful views of the lake of Annecy, the castle of Duingt and the surrounding mountains. Perfect for a quiet ride, even in hot or uncertain weather.

• Hike: approx. 6.8 km/ Approx. 1h45 – 2h30 walk.
• Departure: parking of the Roc de Chère (between Menthon and Talloires) or from Echarvines.
• Access from Le Grand-Bornand: approx. 27 km/ 35 min – 1 hour drive.

Excursions to the massif of Mont Blanc (longer journey, for a full day)

Le Lac Blanc via la Flégère (medium difficulty): this is THE hike to admire the Mont Blanc reflected in an altitude lake. From Chamonix (Les Praz), take the Flégère cable car to start at a higher altitude. The trail then climbs up through a mineral landscape, typical of the Aiguilles Rouges nature reserve, to the famous Lac Blanc. The panorama of the Mont Blanc massif, les Drus, and l’Aiguille Verte is legendary. Very popular in summer, but essential. A flagship experience among the hikes in Haute-Savoie.

• Hiking: approx. 9.3 km (from summit Flégère) / Approx. 3h00 – 4h00 walking (round trip).
• Departure: parking of the cable car de la Flégère (Les Praz de Chamonix).
• Access from Le Grand-Bornand: approx. 80-90 km/ 1h15 – 1h45 drive.

Le Lac Vert (easy to medium): located in the town of Passy, facing Mont Blanc but on the other side of the Arve valley compared to Chamonix, the Lac Vert is easily accessible from the car park of Plaine Joux. It is a pleasant walk in a beautiful setting, with the Mont Blanc as a backdrop reflecting in the clear waters (swimming prohibited). Ideal for a more contemplative outing with a view of the giant of the Alps.

• Hike: approx. 6.6 km (loop from Plaine Joux) / Approx. 2h00 – 2h30 walk.
• Departure: parking of Plaine Joux (Passy).
• Access from Le Grand-Bornand: approx. 60-70 km/ 1h00 – 1h30 drive.

Discovery of an exceptional natural site

Le Cirque du Fer-à-Cheval (easy to medium): even if it is further away (direction Samoëns/Sixt), this site deserves a day trip. This immense limestone amphitheatre, from which dozens of waterfalls spring and early summer, is grandiose. An easy walk at the bottom of the circus allows you to admire the excess. For the more courageous, there are trails up to the “Bout du Monde” or mountain refuges. A natural spectacle unique in France.

• Hike: loop of the bottom of the Cirque approx. 10.6 km/ Approx. 2h45 – 3h30 walk (other longer/difficult options possible).
• Departure: parking of the Cirque du Fer-à-Cheval (Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval).
• Access from Le Grand-Bornand: Approx. 65 km/ 1h14 – 2h00 drive.

Practical tips for your hikes from Le Grand-Bornand

• Preparation: always adapt the hike to your level and that of your group. Check the weather before you leave (it changes quickly in the mountains!). Ask about trail conditions, especially in the spring (late snowfall) or after heavy rains. The tourist office of Grand-Bornand and the reception of Campasun Le Clos du Pin are good sources of information.
• Equipment: good walking shoes essential. Suitable clothing (3-layer system), sun protection (cream, glasses, hat), sufficient water, snacks, small pharmacy, and ideally a IGN map of the area or a reliable GPS application. Sticks can help up and down.
• Respect for nature: stay on marked trails, do not pick flowers (some are protected), do not disturb wildlife (keep your distance, especially from the herds and patous that guard them), and above all, take back all your waste. The beauty of hiking in Haute-Savoie depends on everyone.
• Bivouac: the bivouac is highly regulated. It is imperative to find out about the local rules (town hall, tourist office, regulation of natural reserves) before planning. Camping in the wild is usually prohibited.
• Hiking with your dog: check the permits before leaving. Dogs, even on a leash, are forbidden in many protected areas (nature reserves of Sixt-Passy, Aiguilles Rouges…). Keep him on a leash near the flocks.

Beyond hiking: the Grand-Bornand and its surroundings

Take advantage of your stay to discover the village of Grand-Bornand: its market, its farms, its heritage, its summer activities (mountain biking, summer toboggan…). La Clusaz, the Col des Aravis and Lake Annecy also promise great excursion possibilities.

From our campsite le Campasun Le Clos du Pin in Grand-Bornand, a wide choice of landscapes and trails opens up to you. From the Aravis to the shores of Lake Annecy, passing by the views of Mont Blanc, prepare your shoes and go discover the magnificent hikes in Haute-Savoie!