The 8 most beautiful hikes to do in La Clusaz

You probably know the Clusaz for its ski slopes, but do you know that it is also a great classic for hiking? In the summer, this vast playground with pastures and high mountains will make you discover the most beautiful jewels of the Haute-Savoie. It is time to put on his pair of hiking shoes to go on the tracks of this exceptional massif.

In the heart of Massif des Aravis , the Clusaz is a real crossroads between Annecy , Thones and the Grand Bornand . The resort is discovered in the summer season at the turn of a trail, in the midst of its countless pristine and preserved spaces. For young and old, the massif houses simple views that are conducive to delectation, family walks and sports hikes.

You will also find around the resort of picturesque villages such as Saint-Jean-de-Sixt, Manigod, Villards sur Thones or Sallanches. To discover the biggest natural treasures of the resort, here are the 8 most beautiful hikes to do in the Clusaz.

1. Lake Confins

If you are passing through the Clusaz, the loop leading you to the Lac des Confins will make you discover stunning views of the Grand Bornand, Mont Lachat and the Combes des Aravis.

Without difficulty, the hike will alternate between pasture and lush forest while along the lake for a while. A pleasant walk to be made with a family, the trail is a call for easement and contemplation.

2. From Clusaz to Saint-Jean-de-Sixt

Between the Clusaz and Saint-Jean-de-Sixt, a pleasant course crosses wood and pastures leading you from one village to another. A true time of escape, you can discover the pastures and undergrowth that embrace the hamlets of Haute-Savoie.

Different bridges also cross the course, guiding you from one commune to another, having the impression of being in a cocoon of nature. It is a very nice course to enjoy the alpages of Haute-Savoie.

3. The Trou de la Mouche and the Combe de Paccaly

The Trou de la Mouche and the Comble de Paccaly represent a great classic of the Combes des Aravis. The trail starts at the Combe de Paccaly in a warm and pastoral atmosphere before heading towards a natural arch: the hole of the Mouche. With a spectacular view of the surrounding mountains, you can only be marvelled for this exceptional view!

For the rest, you will go between Combe and Grand Crêt ruins. Used as a hiking trail in the summer, this ascent is a small paradise for winter hiking skiers.

It should be noted, however, that this hike around La Clusaz is rather sporty and that some passages like the top of the Combe and Paccaly and the Trou de la Mouche can be a little more technical. But the view from above is absolutely worth the detour!

4. The Chalet de Paccaly

It is also possible to find some of the landscapes of the Trou de la Mouche and the Combe de Paccaly with the hike of the Chalet de Paccaly.

Very short (2.7 kilometers) and easy to realize, it is the ideal trail to enjoy a superb view while enjoying a pleasant lunch in the middle of nature. Because the Chalet de Paccaly is no other than a restaurant and a real little paradise on earth that it would be a shame to deprive yourself.

5. The Danay Head

With an ideal geographical location between Clusaz and the Grand Bornand, Danay’s head represents the edden of hikers. If the trail starts in the woods, it is then a 360° unobstructed view that will be offered on the panorama of the Aravis, the Bornes but also of the Tournette and Bauges .

This route contains all the diversity of the Clusaz landscapes between lush undergrowth and grandiose panoramas. As exceptional as it is accessible, this superb route meets no particular difficulties. It is a great opportunity to go to meet the most beautiful corners of the Clusaz.

6. The Lac de Tardevant

On a wild and preserved route, let's now discover the Lac de Tardevant. It is through its pastures that you will first cross the Combe de Paccaly before reaching the Paccaly-d’en-Haut alpine chalet. You will then follow the Chalet de Tardevant to access its lake of the same name known for its glacier blue.

Saving and sheltered by the surrounding mountains, it is in a calm and soothing atmosphere that you will contemplate this exceptional high mountain landscape. Without difficulty but grandiose, this hike is worth a visit if you are on the way to the Clusaz.

7. The Combe de Tardevant and the Ambrevetta

Another more sporty alternative to access the Lac de Tardevant is to extend the path to the summit of Ambrevetta and Tardevant. More technical, this hike around La Clusaz allows however to form a loop in order to vary the landscapes.

Over 2,500 metres above sea level, the panorama promises to be grandiose with a spectacular view of the surrounding mountains. More difficult, the trail is for seasoned hikers rather than a family trip.

8. The Refuge de la Bombardellaz

Close to the Clusaz you will also find from the Confins, at the foot of the grandiose chain of the Aravis, the refuge of the Bombardellaz. Short and accessible to all, this hike with a low elevation (200 metres) is ideal for children.

It will also allow you to enjoy the main summits of the Aravis and cross sheep, goats (and goats) on the alpages. On the trail is also the Chalet de Paccaly where you can enjoy an excellent mountain menu!

The hike is conducive to a change of scenery, with a view from the Bombardellaz refuge overlooking the entire butcher valley, in short it is a grandiose show!