Fancy a hike around Thônes ? Looking to breathe in the fresh air and take in breathtaking views? From the Glières Plateau to the Beauregard Plateau, passing by the Sulens, Lake Mont Charvin, and the Parmelan cliffs , set off to discover the region's must-see and iconic plateaus and peaks. If you'd like to go on a multi-day hike, you'll find our suggested itineraries here.
discovering the plateaus
Accessible by car, the plateaus reveal the beauty of the mountain with minimal effort.
The Glières plateau
Paths between nature and history
Accessible by car , the Glières plateau, situated at an altitude of 1440m, offers a vast playground for hikers . In a pastoral setting ideal for discovering local flora and fauna, you will be captivated by the beauty of the site and its wild character, untouched by ski lifts.
Famous for the Resistance that took place there in the winter of 1944, several trails allow visitors to walk in the footsteps of the resistance fighters and discover what their lives were like on the plateau. The Glières Monument, a symbol of resistance and hope, was built in 1973 in their memory. Whether with family or friends, sporty or contemplative, there's something for everyone: from a pleasant family picnic combined with a short hike to conquering the surrounding peaks – Montagne des Auges, Col de l'Ovine, Plaine de Dran … Everyone will find something to enjoy!
In winter
In winter, hiking trails give way to cross-country ski trails and snowshoeing routes.
The many cottages and chalets on the plateau, such as Notre Dame des Neiges, welcome you all year round to come and enjoy local cuisine and spend several days if you like!
The Beauregard plateau
Wherever you look, the spectacle is beautiful!
Accessible from the Col de la Croix-Fry , the Beauregard plateau lives up to its name and promises delightful mountain moments with breathtaking views of the Aravis mountain range, Mont Blanc , and the surrounding valleys. In summer, you can easily explore the various trails of this vast alpine plateau and visit the Lorette farm to discover the production of Abondance and Reblochon Fermier cheeses.
You can climb to the Croix de Colomban (1691 m) to admire the view over the Nom valley and the town of Thônes, or go out to pick blueberries and wild herbs.
In winter
In winter, the plateau transforms into a white paradise with gentle slopes, perfect for cross-country skiing and discovering it in a different light, amidst a more serene winter atmosphere. In short, the Beauregard plateau is a magnificent invitation to explore the Aravis mountains, offering majestic views with minimal effort!
Whether in summer or winter, the Restaurant-Gîte les Matins Clairs welcomes you…Enjoy the terrace with a panoramic view of the Beauregard Plateau.
to conquer the summits
A few hours of walking and these emblematic peaks of the region reveal their most beautiful panoramas to you.
La Tourette
A 360° panorama with a bird's eye view of the lake
Reaching an altitude of 2351 m, La Tournette is the highest peak in the Bornes massif. It offers a 360° panorama and is a classic and challenging hike for many hikers.
Its ascent can be done:
From the Aulp chalet (commune of Montmin). You will then enjoy a magnificent view of the lake throughout your ascent.
The final ascent involves a chimney equipped with chains and ladders, not recommended for those prone to vertigo. But the 360° panorama of Annecy and its superb turquoise lake, Mont Veyrier , the Bauges massif , the Beaufortain , the Bornes-Aravis , not forgetting in the distance… Mont Blanc , rewards these last efforts!
The Tournette massif is part of the Natura 2000 European network . In addition to its rich alpine flora, you can observe numerous animals such as chamois, ibex, mouflon, and marmots. Alpine choughs are often seen at the summit: watch out for your sandwich!
Parmelan
A fabulous plateau of lapies
The summit of Parmelan , at 1832 m altitude, is the second most iconic peak overlooking Lake Annecy . Several routes lead to it: from Dingy Saint Clair (La Blonnière) or from Villaz. From the summit, at the Parmelan refuge , a 360° panorama unfolds, encompassing the Alps, the Jura Mountains, and even the Vercors massif on a clear day.
Beyond this exceptional view, this hike reveals a fabulous plateau of lapiaz: ocean of stone or lunar desert... Everyone has their own interpretation! A must-see but be careful where you put your feet because this limestone plateau is a real Gruyère cheese. Dug by water over the years, the many chasms and faults such as the Grande Glacière or the Grotte de l'Enfer to discover in the summer (reserved for speleologists) are all traps to avoid in the winter.
Mont Charvin
Mont Charvin: the Aravis pyramid
Located south of the Aravis at an altitude of 2409 m, Mont Charvin is undoubtedly one of the must-see peaks in the region.
Starting from Les Sardoches in the commune of Bouchet-Mont-Charvin , the hike to the summit can be challenging, with an exposed section and a final stretch reserved for experienced hikers . Once at the top, Mont Charvin offers a breathtaking panorama with views of Mont Blanc and a large part of the Northern Alps. Lake Mont-Charvin provides a more family-friendly alternative . Nestled at the foot of the imposing pyramid in an ancient glacial cirque, this small lake is the perfect spot for a family picnic. It is also the source of the Fier River.
Throughout the day, keep your eyes peeled, as the slopes of Mont Charvin are home to numerous chamois and ibex, not to mention the marmots that whistle as you pass. Flower lovers will be delighted in this veritable botanical garden, where Koch's gentians, vanilla orchids, and martagon lilies (a protected species) flourish. On your way back down, take a well-deserved break at the Auberge des Fontanettes or the Chalet de l'Aulp de Marlens, where the cows and goats of the GAEC du Vent des Cimes farm spend their summers. A lovely terrace awaits you, offering a refreshing drink with a view of the majestic mountain. You can also sample and purchase delicious cheeses made on-site!
Sulens Mountain
In the heart of Val Sulens
Located between Aravis and Tournette in the heart of the Val Sulens , this mountain, which rises to 1839 m, offers a lovely viewpoint over the surrounding peaks, detailed on the orientation tables erected at the summit : Lachat, Jallouvre, Pointe Percée, Charvin, Tournette and Parmelan …
From the Plan Bois pass , several routes lead to the long, grassy summit ridge, passing through alpine pastures. On the way down, you can stop at one of the many local farms to buy some delicious, locally made Reblochon cheese. Botany enthusiasts will be delighted: the unique terrain of the Sulens mountain encourages the growth of the Lady's Slipper orchid, a delicate flower that has become quite rare (a protected species – for viewing only)!
The Plan Bois Inn is a popular address for its famous potato fritters and reblochonnade. After the effort, the comfort!
Mount Lachat
Belvedere over Thônes and panoramic view
Mont Lachat lies on the border between the Bornes and Aravis mountain ranges. The orientation table at the summit, at 2023 m, allows you to appreciate the 360° view: the Auges mountain range and the Glières plateau, the Bargy range, the Aiguilles Rouges, the Pointe Percée, the Aravis range…
This hike can be started from several points, varying in length and elevation gain. The different paths converge at a place called La Mare, leading to the gigantic metal cross at the summit. In the final section, alpine pastures and forests give way to tufts of grass, bushes, and limestone pavement. A few fun sections offer access to the panoramic view. It's not uncommon to spot a chamois towards the end of the hike and to see some edelweiss!
