The Aravis mountains are best known for skiing. However in autumn, the wonderful scenery is perfect for recharging your batteries, enjoying peaceful walks and taking in the changing colours of the trees.
From Chinaillon to La Clusaz and Le Grand-Bornand, here is our list of the seven most beautiful autumn hikes in the Aravis, along with our top practical tips and safety advice.
Discover all of our chalets in the Aravis
Why go hiking in the Aravis mountains in autumn?
The perfect season to find peace
In autumn, the Aravis mountains become a haven of peace, far from the hustle and bustle of the high season. It’s a wonderful opportunity to get to know the real heart of the region, in a way that few visitors ever do.
Hiking in the Aravis at this time of year allows you to enjoy quiet trails, focusing on the flora and fauna of the mountains. Each of your trips, from a leisurely stroll to a demanding hike, will be an opportunity for contemplation.
The flaming colours of autumn
An autumn hike in the Aravis mountains is a unique experience. The forests on the mountainsides are ablaze with reds and oranges, contrasting with the snow-capped peaks.
This season showcases nature in all its glory, giving you the chance to observe the wildlife as they prepare for the coming winter. Keep your eyes peeled and take your time, and you might be lucky enough to spot some wild animals.
Our seven most beautiful autumn hikes in the Aravis
Family-friendly – Beauregard plateau
Distance: 10km
Duration: 4–5 hours
Elevation gain: 500m
Departure point: The col de la Croix Fry
This 10km family hike with little change in level crosses a variety of landscapes, from autumn forests to green mountain pastures. The Beauregard plateau offers a popular viewpoint over Mont Blanc and the Aravis massif.
The trail leads through meadows studded with wildflowers and colourful woodland. You can drive to the starting point or take the free shuttle bus that runs throughout the area.
Family-friendly – Col des Annes
Distance: 7km
Duration: 3-4 hours
Elevation gain: 300m
Departure point: Grand-Bornand car park
If you’re looking for a gentle hike to enjoy with your children, try the walk to the Col des Annes. This 7km route with little change in altitude crosses colourful mountain meadows, offering breathtaking views of the Aravis peaks and surrounding valleys.
You will be surrounded by green pastures where cows graze peacefully. The views of the surrounding peaks are breathtaking, so don’t forget your camera because you’ll want to capture these magical moments.
Intermediate – Mont Lachat–Lac de la Cour–Samance
Distance: 9km
Duration: 2hrs 30
Elevation gain: 262m
Departure point: Le Chinaillon
Discover Lac de la Cour on this moderate 9km loop. The route takes you through mountain pastures, along the ridges of Mont Lachat, and through charming hamlets in the commune of Le Grand-Bornand, including Samance and Le Chinaillon.
Along the way, you will cross the Chinaillon stream and pass Lac de la Cour, an idyllic place to stop for a picnic. The terrain alternates between mountain trails and country lanes, with a few sections on tarmac roads.
Intermediate – Chalets de Mayse
Distance: 12.2km
Duration: 5hrs 30
Elevation gain: 986m
Departure point: Le Chinaillon
Discover the tranquil Lake Lessy on this circular route starting from Chinaillon. Although it is not particularly difficult, you need to be in good physical shape to cross the Col de la Forclaz at 1,844 metres and the Col sous le Bouclon at 1,909 metres.
If you follow the route anti-clockwise, the initial climb is made easier by the shade of the undergrowth. Stop for a drink and a snack at the two lake-side refreshment bars. Please note that snow sometimes remains at high altitude until March.
Difficult – La Tête du Danay
Distance: 11km
Time: 5 hrs
Elevation gain: 810m
Departure point: Grand-Bornand ice rink
This route crosses the Dodes forest to reach the hamlet of Macheret. The destination is the summit of Danay, at an altitude of 1,731m. It’s a mountain surrounded by vast expanses of fir trees, from which it takes its name.
This varied circuit will take you along several forest trails and through mountain pastures. The summit offers magnificent views of Les Bornes and the Aravis massif. This hike is relatively difficult and is not recommended in the event of early snowfall.
Expert – Confins to the Grande Forclaz valley
Distance: 12km
Duration: 5hrs
Elevation gain: 950m
Departure point: Les Confins car park
The hike from Les Confins to the Grande Forclaz valley is a demanding alpine route for experienced hikers. It crosses contrasting landscapes, from the Confins valley to the austerity of the Grande Forclaz.
The last section of the ascent, as well as the descent, require caution due to steep and rugged passages and loose or unstable terrain. This route is often combined with an ascent to the Pointe de Tardevant (see below).
Expert – La pointe de Tardevant
Distance: 13km
Duration: 7 hours
Elevation gain: 1,100m
Departure point: Les Confins car park
The climb to Pointe de Tardevant, which rises to 2,500 metres, is a challenging route offering spectacular views of the Aravis and Mont Blanc. Starting from the Confins car park near La Clusaz, you will pass Lake Tardevant before following the ridges to the peak.
You can return the same way or via the Combe de la Grande Forclaz. This second option creates an even wilder but longer loop, which should only be attempted by experienced hikers.
Practical advice for your autumn walks
What to wear when hiking in the mountains in autumn
- High-top hiking boots: to protect your ankles and provide grip on wet paths.
- Technical socks: breathable, anti-chafing, to keep your feet warm.
- Breathable base layer: long-sleeved technical T-shirt to wick away perspiration.
- Fleece or insulating layer: to put on or take off depending on the temperature.
- Waterproof and windproof jacket: essential against rain, fog or gusts of wind.
- Water-repellent hiking trousers: more suitable than shorts in autumn.
- Hat or headband: because heat escapes quickly through the head.
- Lightweight gloves: to protect against the cold in the morning or at altitude.
- Sunglasses and sun cream: the sun remains strong in the mountains, even when it is behind the clouds.
Preparing for your hike
It is essential to be well prepared for your hike so that you can enjoy it to the fullest. Choose a route that is suitable for your group’s level, so that everyone can enjoy themselves. Check the weather forecast, as rain or early snow can make some trails dangerous.
Also make sure the route is passable and safe. Finally, always take a reliable route map with you: download your itinerary onto an app such as Komoot, Whympr or Iphigénie, or follow it on a paper map.
Safety advice
Hiking in the mountains requires a few essential safety precautions.
Firstly, always take enough food and water with you, as the effort and altitude could tire you faster than you might think. Set off early in the morning to avoid being caught out by the failing light in the evening, or bring headlamps with you.
It is essential to wear sunscreen, as the sun is intense even in autumn. Bring a first aid kit and a survival blanket, which can be invaluable in case of unforeseen circumstances. Finally, make sure that every member of the group knows the route: this can be crucial if someone needs to call for help.
Stay longer with OVO Network
Chalets to relax in after your hike
After a strenuous day of hiking, picture yourself sitting by the fire with your loved ones in a wood-panelled lounge, or soaking in the cosy comfort of a hot tub or sauna, before settling down for a good night’s sleep in a comfortable bed…
OVO Network partner chalets are the perfect cosy retreat after a day in the mountains in autumn. They offer the perfect blend of relaxation and refinement, leaving you to enjoy the mountains to the full.
The advantages of booking out of season
Booking accommodation in the low season allows you to take advantage of lower prices and a wider range of accommodation. This makes it much easier to find the perfect chalet for you, with all the facilities you could wish for.
As an added bonus, the atmosphere in the resorts is quieter and more relaxed, in contrast to the crowds during the high season. An out-of-season holiday is an excellent way to manage your budget, for a stay that combines quality and tranquility.
The Aravis mountain range is a natural paradise that unveils all its quiet beauty in autumn, inviting visitors to explore and contemplate. The area around Chinaillon, Le Grand-Bornand and La Clusaz is criss-crossed with hiking trails for walkers of all levels.
Now that you know where to go hiking in autumn in the Aravis, it’s time to book your accommodation:
Discover all of our chalets in the Aravis
Et n’oubliez pas de nous suivre sur Instagram et de vous inscrire à notre newsletter, afin de recevoir en avant-première toutes les informations et offres exclusives qui vous permettront d’organiser vos prochaines vacances d’automne dans les Aravis !
