Tree climbing in the Grand-Bornand: experience the ultimate adventure in the heart of the Forêt des Dodes
Published on 10/06/2025 by CAMPASUN
Nestled in the beautiful Aravis massif, Le Grand-Bornand is a destination of choice in Haute-Savoie for nature lovers and adventure. The flagship activity for families and thrill-seekers? The tree climbing in Grand-Bornand, whose epicenter is the Parc Aventure des Dodes, promises adrenaline and laughter in the heart of a magnificent forest. Planning this outing is all the simpler as quality accommodation awaits you in the immediate vicinity, such as our campsite Le Clos du Pin au Grand Bornand of the Campasun network, ideally located just a few minutes from the park (1 km). Discover how to combine chills in the trees and comfortable stay!
What is tree climbing?
The tree climbing, or forest adventure course, is an outdoor activity that consists of evolving from tree to tree by taking various suspended workshops: monkey bridges, Nepali footbridges, Tarzan jumps, and above all, long grisly zip lines. It is a fun and sporty activity that requires balance, agility and a dash of courage. The tree climbing park at Le Grand-Bornand is designed to accommodate a wide audience, from young children discovering their first sensations in altitude to adults looking for more demanding challenges. Safety is paramount, with a complete equipment provided (harness, lanyards, pulley) and a detailed briefing before starting on the courses.
Le Parc Aventure des Dodes: the heart of tree climbing in Grand-Bornand
Located in the beautiful forest of Dodes, right next to the village of Grand-Bornand, the park Adventure Parc des Dodes reveals an exceptional natural setting for tree climbing. The wooded environment, crossed by the Foron stream, adds a touch of freshness and charm to the experience. Upon arrival, you will be immersed in an atmosphere of adventure, ready to challenge the heights. This adventure park is renowned for the quality of its facilities and the diversity of its tree climbing trails, suitable for all ages and levels. The many positive reviews reflect the satisfaction of visitors who have tried the adventure. The tree climbing in Grand-Bornand aux Dodes is a true local institution.
Adventure courses for all levels
What makes the strength of tree climbing in the Grand-Bornand at the Parc Aventure des Dodes, is the diversity of its adventure courses, designed to satisfy all desires and all levels, directly inspired by the forest of Dodes.
- Squirrel course: specially designed for toddlers from 80 cm. This course evolves between 1m and 3.5m high in the trees and includes 2 zip lines. It uses a continuous lifeline for maximum safety, allowing a first playful approach (estimated duration: about 45 min). It is the perfect initiation for future family climbers.
- Ouistiti course: another route for young children, accessible up to 1m10. It offers workshops adapted to their size for safe fun (specific details such as height or workshops are to be checked on the site).
- Green Course: accessible to adults and children measuring at least 1m20. This course takes you up to 8 m and includes 2 zip lines. It is an excellent starting point for a family discovery or for beginners wishing to learn the tree climbing in Grand-Bornand (estimated duration: about 60 min). Safety provided by a continuous lifeline.
- Parcours Bleu: also for adults and children from 1m20. This adventure course increases the level and takes you up to 12m high! It includes 1 zip line and offers a more complete challenge because it also allows access to the Green Trail. Perfect for those looking for a little more thrills (estimated duration: about 1h30).
- Grand Parcours: the challenge for the taller and more daring, accessible to adults and young people from 1m40. This name probably includes the most technical and highest routes in the park, requiring agility and a little courage. It is the ideal option to fully live the adventure and excel during your tree climbing experience in the Grand-Bornand. (See the website for details of this route).
Safety and supervision
Safety is the top priority at the Grand-Bornand Tree Climbing Park. Before starting, each participant receives a complete equipment (harness, children’s helmet, lanyards, carabiners, pulley) and attends a detailed briefing provided by qualified operators. You will learn how to handle the equipment and safety rules to be observed on the courses. Most modern parks, including the Dodes park, use a continuous lifeline system that prevents accidental detachment when engaged on a course. This allows both adults and children to enjoy the adventure in complete serenity. Park staff monitors the courses and is ready to respond if required. Choosing tree climbing in the Grand-Bornand means opting for a supervised and secure activity.
Practical information for your tree climbing day in the Grand-Bornand
- Location: Parc Aventure des Dodes, Route des Dodes, 74450 Le Grand-Bornand. Easily accessible from the center of the village Grand-Bornand.
- Opening period: usually open from spring to fall (e.g., April/May to September/October). Hours vary depending on season, days of the week and weather conditions. It is essential to consult the official website or contact them before your visit to check the opening days and hours.
- Rates: prices vary according to age and chosen routes (adult or child rates). Group or family rates are often offered. Check the website for current rates. Access to the Grand-Bornand tree climbing trails is generally valid for a limited time (e.g., 2-3 hours)
- Reservation: highly recommended, especially in high season (July-August) and weekends, to guarantee your place.
- Equipment to be provided: comfortable sportswear (long pants or shorts recommended), closed sports shoes mandatory (no sandals). Consider water, sunscreen and perhaps a snack. A picnic area is often available nearby or in the park.
- Duration: allow about 2 to 3 hours to fully enjoy the activity, including equipment, briefing and completion of several routes.
The Grand-Bornand tree climbing experience is a complete activity that stimulates both body and mind, while offering total immersion in the unspoilt nature of Savoie. Participants’ feedback often highlights the beauty of the setting and the professionalism of the team.
Extend the adventure: stay at the campsite Le Clos du Pin with Campasun
After a day full of emotions and challenges in the trees of the tree climbing park at Le Grand-Bornand, what better than a comfortable accommodation and ideally located to relax? Our campsite Le Clos du Pin, a member of the Campasun group, is an excellent option for your stay in Grand-Bornand.
Located in the immediate vicinity of the village center and not far from the Parc Aventure des Dodes, Le Clos du Pin allows you easy access to the activities of the region, including your tree climbing session at Grand-Bornand. Our friendly campsite offers various types of accommodation (pitches for tents/ caravans, mobile homes) adapted to the needs of families, couples or groups of friends.
By choosing Le Clos du Pin – Campasun, you will benefit from:
- A pleasant setting in the heart of the mountains.
- A proximity to shops and services of the village Grand-Bornand.
- An ideal starting point to visit the Aravis region, Lake Annecy (about 30-40 minutes by car) or even push up to Chamonix and Mont Blanc for a day trip.
- A relaxed atmosphere, perfect to recharge after the physical effort of the tree climbing.
Staying at our campsite Le Clos du Pin makes the organization of your tree climbing adventure in Grand-Bornand even easier and more enjoyable. It is the perfect base for an active holiday in Savoy.
Beyond the tree climbing: discover the Grand-Bornand and its surroundings
Your trip to the Grand-Bornand for tree climbing is an opportunity to discover other treasures of the region:
- Hiking: hundreds of kilometers of marked trails for all levels, with panoramic views of the Aravis.
- MTB: many mountain bike routes and a famous bike park.
- Visit the village: discover the authentic charm of the village Grand-Bornand with its church, traditional chalets and market.
- Other Adventure Parks: if you are passionate, the region has other parks such as Aravis Parc Aventures, Acro’Aventures Talloires near Lake Annecy, or even Acro Aventures Reignier (Reignier Esery) a little further away.
- Climbing and Via Ferrata: for lovers of verticality, the via ferrata of the Tower or climbing sites allow other challenges.
- Relaxing by the lake: Lake Annecy, with its beaches and water activities, is not far away.
Tree climbing in the Grand-Bornand is just one of many facets of a successful stay in the French Alps. Live a memorable adventure with the tree climbing at the Parc Aventure des Dodes! Fun, nature and self-improvement await the whole family. Simplify your stay with our campsite Le Clos du Pin (Campasun), ideally located nearby for a well-deserved rest. Start the tree climbing experience at Le Grand-Bornand!
