#1 Pastoral trails
in Le Beaufortain,
(228 km)
🇫🇷

Day 1

Coupeau

In the village of Houches, a 10 minute drive from Chamonix. Perched at an altitude of 1,250 metres and surrounded by alpine prairies, the hamlet of Coupeau, with some of the region’s most beautiful chalets, makes for an ideal stop. On the menu: panoramic views of the Mont Blanc Massif. Lace up your shoes, and set off on the most beautiful hike to the “Prarion Hotel”.

Day 2

Le Chalet de Mayères

Near the Chalet Refuge de Mayères is the perfect spot to park your van with a bird’s-eye view of the Mont Blanc Massif. From the lodge is a wide selection of hiking trails. Alternative option: scoot over to Saint-Nicolas de Véroce and climb up to Mont Joly, which provides the best view of Mont Blanc. En route to Les Saisies (3), take a nap or an obligatory stroll of the sunny Crest-Voland village.

Day 3

LES SAISIES/HAUTELUCE

For the 3rd leg, park the van at the Les Saisies station or on the outskirts of the Hauteluce village. Try the Bike Park for the challenge of the day. Explore kilometre after kilometre of marked mountain biking trails, 14 downhill slopes, 175 km of cross-country ski trails… and an alternative route via the Col de Véry and Girotte Lake. For all you avid walkers: follow the trail to Lac Noir (natural lake) and the Rocher des Enclaves.

Day 4

Beaufort

Park your van in Beaufort. Peaceful nights are guaranteed in the cheese capital (of the same name). Plus, enjoy a wide selection of hiking trails with splendid views of the Beaufortain valley. Another option is to head over to the Savoyard village of Villard-sur-Doron and take a stroll through the lanes and gardens. Then go on a hike; with any luck, the marmots will be there to guide you.

Day 5

Menthon-Saint-Bernard

Everyone is dying to go to Menthon-Saint-Bernard. Set a course for the shore of Lake Annecy, at the foot of Dents de Lanfon, where the commune marks the head of one of the most beautiful hiking trails. Or, depart from Manigod in the Aravis mountain range and hike through the forests and pretty chalets.

Day 6

La Chartreuse du Reposoir

Located in the Arve Valley, in a wooded cirque beside a small lake, is the historic monastery Chartreuse du Reposoir. Founded in 1151, it has been occupied by some 20 Carmelite nuns since 1931. Visit this unique site before setting off on stunning trails offering views of the Faron Valley and the summits surrounding the mythical Col de la Colombière.

Day 7

Chamonix

Back to Chamonix for the last night. Take your time to choose just the right spot. We recommend Le Planet in summer or winter, or Le Col des Montets in warmer weather. Views and tranquility are guaranteed. Keep your eyes open, gaze at the stars, and dream! Take a morning hike, or sleep in before returning the van by 11:00 am.