The webcam located at the Aravis pass will allow you to check the weather before your departure!
A must-see on the legendary Route des Grandes Alpes, the Col des Aravis marks the boundary between the departments of Haute-Savoie and Savoie. Starting point for several hikes, you will enjoy a magnificent panorama of the Aravis and Mont-Blanc. On the way back down, you can stop at one of the restaurants at the Col des Aravis.
A pass on the Grandes Alpes road
A pass between Savoie and Haute-Savoie
Open year-round, except in the event of exceptional closures due to heavy snowfall, the Col des Aravis connects the resorts of La Clusaz and La Giettaz. At 1486 meters altitude, it is the lowest point in the Aravis mountain range. From La Clusaz, the road winds through alpine pastures, with the cliffs of the Etale on one side and the rectangular notch of the Porte des Aravis on the other. The final switchbacks leading up to the pass reveal a superb view of Mont Blanc. Large parking areas along the ascent to the summit make it easy to park and enjoy the view, restaurants, and other activities.
In cyclo mode
Crossed 40 times by the Tour de France , the Col des Aravis is particularly popular with cyclists thanks to its wide road. From Thônes , you'll need to cover 19 km to reach the summit. A fairly long but easy and consistent climb with an average gradient of 4,6%, never exceeding 8.6%, it's ideal at the beginning of the season or for those new to mountain passes. Markers are placed along the route to guide you on your ascent. In summer, the climb is very pleasant, winding through alpine pastures to the sound of cowbells echoing across the mountains, with Mont Blanc in sight.
A break is in order
You can take advantage of the terraces of the various restaurants at the pass to take a break and admire the sublime view of Mont Blanc.
Rhodos Hotel-Restaurant
In a mountain bistro atmosphere, both modern and cozy, you can enjoy local and refined cuisine made with good fresh products. Les Rhodos also welcomes you for all your family or friends events, offering both accommodation and meals.
The Aravis Gate “Chez Bruno”
This beautiful establishment with a light wood dining room offers a varied menu with hearty and quality traditional Savoyard dishes. You can also spend the night there.
The Savoyard Chalet
As its name suggests, this restaurant offers a typical Savoyard chalet atmosphere and offers authentic and delicious cuisine. A limited menu but which indicates the quality of the simmered dishes.
Souvenir shops
You will find everything you need on site to later remember these magical moments spent in the Aravis.
Activities at the Col des Aravis
Open in summer and winter, the Col des Aravis offers many activities in an exceptional setting. Remember to check the weather before setting off on the trails!
Hiking at the Col des Aravis
The Priest's Chalet
The classic hike starting from the pass is a family-friendly walk that will take you to the Chalet du Curé (9km round trip, 190m elevation gain). Village priests used to take refuge here during the French Revolution. You'll discover a magnificent panorama of the Mont Blanc range and the Beaufortain mountains . You can stop at the Tête promontory to observe the various peaks indicated by the orientation table.
The Thirst Road
On foot or by mountain bike, you can travel the legendary Route de la Soif which connects the Col des Aravis to the Col de l'Arpettaz above Ugine. This balcony route crosses many mountain pastures and offers a breathtaking view of the Mont-Blanc range. Passing under the cliffs of the Aravis, many animals can be observed such as mouflons, chamois, marmots, eagles... Inns mark this rolling route of approximately 14 km and 500 m of elevation gain.
The Yves Pollet-Villard via ferrata
Located on the ascent to the Col des Aravis from La Clusaz, the Yves Pollet-Villard via ferrata is set up on the Rochers de Borderan. The 700m long route with a 300m elevation gain makes excellent use of the natural ledges of the rock face and offers a very complete and fun via ferrata with airy sections, beautiful sheer drops, a footbridge and an optional overhang.
The chapel of Sainte-Anne
Built in 1650 and rebuilt around 1765, the Col des Aravis chapel is dedicated to Saint Anne, patron saint of travelers.
