{"id":86572,"date":"2024-02-02T07:30:00","date_gmt":"2024-02-02T06:30:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.ovonetwork.com\/blog\/?p=86572"},"modified":"2025-06-05T18:58:32","modified_gmt":"2025-06-05T16:58:32","slug":"spring-hikes-samoens","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.ovonetwork.com\/blog\/spring-hikes-samoens\/","title":{"rendered":"7 Spring hikes around Samo\u00ebns"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

As winter loosens its grip, Samo\u00ebns emerges from its chilly slumber, offering a fresh perspective for outdoor enthusiasts. In this post, we\u2019ll guide you through a curated selection of 7 trails that capture the essence of the season. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

From leisurely strolls along flower-lined paths to more challenging routes revealing panoramic mountain vistas, these hikes showcase the natural beauty that blossoms around this idyllic alpine location during the spring months. Plus, the Grand Massif region is home to some great gentle hikes which are ideal for families of novice hikers.<\/strong><\/strong> So lace up your hiking boots and join us as we navigate through the rejuvenating landscapes of Samo\u00ebns!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Visit the Grand Massif<\/h2>\n\n
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Browse all chalets in Samoens<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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\u00a9 Samo\u00ebns<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The top spring hikes around Samo\u00ebns<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

1. From Samo\u00ebns to Verchaix<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Distance:<\/strong> 9.5km
Duration:<\/strong> 3h 30m
Elevation gain:<\/strong> 110m<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Set off and discover the beauty of the foothills in springtime<\/strong> on this family-friendly walk, accessible to all from May onwards.\u00a0 You will depart from the charming hamlet of B\u00e9rouze, crowned with its beautiful castle, and you will pass through several authentic Haute-Savoie hamlets. The route winds through several Alpine forests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Then it\u2019s back towards Samo\u00ebns along the Giffre river<\/strong>, which attracts water sports lovers from spring onwards. You can take a breather at the Blue Lake in Morillon, or the Lacs aux Dames outdoor activity centre.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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2. Le B\u00e9rouze-Mathonex-Vigny<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Distance:<\/strong> 7km
Duration:<\/strong> 3h
Elevation gain:<\/strong> 300m<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Littered with churches, chapels and ancient chalets, this trail will allow you to discover life in the Samo\u00ebns Valley and all its traditions<\/strong>. You will be led from hamlet to hamlet along ancient country roads.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To find out even more about Haute-Savoie traditions, combine your hike with a visit to the Clos Parchet eco farm and folk museum<\/strong>.\u00a0 This traditional farm, built in 1815, has a large collection of everyday objects from throughout its history, providing a fascinating insight into the region\u2019s rural past.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Late springtime is the best time to make the most of this trail, from June onwards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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3. The village of Vallon and the Giffre dikes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Distance:<\/strong> 6.6km
Duration:<\/strong> 1.5h
Elevation gain:<\/strong> 17m<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This short walk is suitable for all the family and is a great excuse to stretch your legs while exploring the beauty of the Samo\u00ebns region. A mix of nature and culture<\/strong>, this route takes you along the Giffre river before you pass through the 2 sections of the village of Vallon (Vallon d\u2019en Bas and Vallon d\u2019en Haut).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You will explore a charming valley, carpeted in flowers of all colours in springtime, with the Criou and Commune mountains<\/strong> as a backdrop. While you\u2019re passing through the hamlets, don\u2019t forget to stop and admire the fountain that dates back to 1873, and the chapel, built in 1636.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Book your stay in the Grand Massif<\/h2>\n\n
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4. Lacs aux Dames to Lac Bleu<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Distance:<\/strong> 7.1km
Duration:<\/strong> 1.5h
Elevation gain:<\/strong> 24m<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The banks of the Giffre between Samo\u00ebns and Morillon have been beautifully landscaped, allowing you to enjoy this delightful walk. A wide, flat path, under the pleasant shade of a forest of beech and spruce trees, leads from the Lac aux Dames to the Blue Lake in Morillon, with the imposing silhouette of the Haut-Giffre mountains<\/strong> in the background.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open from May onwards, it is the most popular route in the region and attracts many walkers from both resorts. The best time to enjoy the walk is during the week, to avoid the crowds. Don\u2019t hesitate to take a dip at the Lacs aux Dames outdoor activity centre<\/strong> (remember no dogs are permitted in the water).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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5. Bostan and Golese Refuges<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Distance:<\/strong> 9.3km
Duration:<\/strong> 4h 10m
Elevation gain:<\/strong> 727m<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Between forests and mountain pastures, this well-marked trail leads to 2 mountain refuges, nestling at the foot of the Pointe de Tuets <\/strong>and the Dents Blanches<\/strong>, overlooking Samo\u00ebns. You\u2019ll be surrounded from start to finish by the spectacular scenery of the Giffre mountain range, including some incredible rock formations just before the Col de Gol\u00e8se.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The recommended route is counterclockwise, starting with a fairly steep ascent through the Bostan forest<\/strong>. Good physical fitness and sturdy footwear are essential.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dogs are permitted on this route, provided they are kept on a lead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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6. L\u00e9ledian Bridge \u2013 Lake Gers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Distance:<\/strong> 13.5km
Duration:<\/strong> 4h 10m
Elevation gain:<\/strong> 512m<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting from the L\u00e9dedian bridge, 7km from Samo\u00ebns, this mainly wooded route leads to the seductive Lac de Gers<\/strong>, at an altitude of 1,537m. A refuge on the edge of the lake, surrounded by mountain pastures, provides refreshment and food.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This is a pleasant hike with no particular difficulties, immersing the whole family in tranquillity and greenery. The return journey takes the same route, along the foothills of the Pointe du Trapechet<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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7. Samo\u00ebns 1600 \u2013 Chariande<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Distance:<\/strong> 4.8km
Duration:<\/strong> 2h
Elevation gain:<\/strong> 321m<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Discover the Samo\u00ebns 1600 ski area on this short loop towards the T\u00eate du Pr\u00e9 des Saix. On the way, you\u2019ll pass the Gouilles Rouges lake<\/strong>, ideal for a picnic break.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The climb is fairly steep and not suitable for all fitness levels, especially as the path is not shaded. It\u2019s a good idea to keep well hydrated and to hike clockwise to avoid descending along a rocky path.
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If you still have time and energy, you can extend your excursion to the Col des Saix<\/strong>, which offers an even more breathtaking panorama.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The hikes around Samo\u00ebns are particularly beautiful in spring, whether you\u2019re travelling alone or in a group, as a couple or a family, from novices to experts.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, even if you\u2019re heading off on an adventure, don\u2019t forget to be properly prepared when it comes to mountain safety. Before you set off, make sure you tell someone your route and find out the local emergency numbers. Your outing will be all the more enjoyable for it!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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