Hiking Holidays

Forming part of the UNESCO recognised Chablais region, the Portes du Soleil offers some of the most easily accessible trails across France and Switzerland and provides easy access to some truly breathtaking scenery. The area as a whole includes over 800km of marked routes, across 12 linked resorts, with 140km of these trails in Morzine-Avoriaz alone.

There are a wide variety of marked trails, leading you past spectacular vistas of world renowned mountains such as the Mont Blanc Massif and Dents du Midi. You can take in lakes, waterfalls and rivers, including the Dranse river, Lac d’Arvouin and the Nyon waterfall and make sure you keep your eyes peeled for the golden eagles and griffon vultures.

Whether it’s a 3 hour round trip to Roc d’Enfer (Hells Rock) through the Graydon pastures or you feel like a more relaxed stroll around Lac Montriond, the area offers everything from steep alpine peaks to flatter river course trails.and the best part… the multi-pass gives you access to all of this, including all 26 lifts, for just €2 per day!

There are boundless options for walking and hiking in the Portes du Soleil, with an extensive network of trails, stunning views, routes for all abilities, picnic spots, lakes to swim in, wildlife and more. Whether you want to challenge yourself and raise your heart rate, or prefer a leisurely stroll with great views, there really is something for everyone. With gorgeous traditional restaurants in the most serene of spots en route, you can taste the fresh, local produce of cheeses, charcuterie, potato ‘beignets’, salads, omelettes, and so on. We have put together a few recommendations of our favourite routes and restaurants, which will no doubt give you a taste for the relaxed yet active way of life during the summer months here.

(Main image ©Sylvain Aymoz)