Hiking
Discovering the Alpine Trails: Hiking in Savoie
The French Alps, with their majestic peaks, deep forests and green mountain pastures, offer an exceptional playground for lovers of hikingWhether you're a beginner hiker or an experienced mountaineer, the Savoie region, around the resorts and villages of La Plagne, Les Arcs, Méribel, and Courchevel, is full of spectacular trails and must-do itineraries. Between glacial lakes, breathtaking panoramas, and peaceful valleys, every step is an immersion in the wild and unspoiled nature of the Alps.
The most beautiful hikes to do in Savoie
1. Lake La Plagne – Vanoise (Hiking in La Plagne)
- Distance: 15 km round trip
- Elevation: 700 m
- Duration: 5 to 6 hours
- Level: Intermediate
Located in the heart of the Vanoise National Park, this trail leads you to the magnificent Lac de la Plagne, perched at an altitude of 2140 meters. The path winds through flowering mountain pastures and larch forests, offering superb views of the surrounding Alpine peaks. The arrival at the lake is spectacular, with its crystal-clear waters reflecting the snow-capped peaks. In good weather, you might be lucky enough to spot ibex or marmots on the mountainsides.
2. The Tour du Mont Pourri (Hike in Les Arcs)
- Distance: 30 km (2-day loop)
- Elevation: 2100 m
- Duration: 12 to 14 hours (over 2 days)
- Level: Confirmed
This impressive circuit circles Mont Pourri, one of the highest peaks in the Vanoise region, reaching 3779 meters. This hike is demanding but incredibly rewarding, offering panoramic views of the Mont Blanc massif, the glaciers of Mont Pourri, and the vast wilderness of the Vanoise region. The Mont Pourri refuge, perched at 2374 meters, is the perfect place to spend the night and admire the stars away from the valley lights.
3. Lake Tueda and the Plan de Tuéda Nature Reserve (Hiking in Méribel)
- Distance: 7 km round trip
- Elevation: 300 m
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Level: Easy
This accessible hike begins at the charming Lac de Tueda, surrounded by Swiss pine forests and alpine flowers. The trail runs alongside the lake and then deep into the nature reserve, offering splendid views of the Dent de Burgin and Mont Vallon. Perfect for a family outing, this trail is also ideal for observing alpine flora and mountain birds.
4. The Col de la Vanoise (Hiking in Courchevel / Pralognan-la-Vanoise)
- Distance: 16 km round trip
- Elevation: 900 m
- Duration: 6 to 7 hours
- Level: Intermediate
This legendary hike takes you to one of the most famous passes in the French Alps, the Col de la Vanoise, located at 2516 meters. The route crosses flowery pastures, glacial torrents, and offers breathtaking views of the glaciers of the Grande Casse, the highest peak in the Vanoise region at 3855 meters. It's also an excellent opportunity to encounter chamois, ibex, and even the golden eagle, emblem of the Alps.
Natural Parks and the richness of Alpine flora and fauna
La Savoy home to some of the most unspoiled and spectacular natural spaces in the French alps. The Vanoise National Park, created in 1963, is the oldest French national park. It forms a vast protected area with the Italian Gran Paradiso National Park, thus creating one of the largest natural spaces in Western Europe.
In addition to its famous national parks, Savoie is home to numerous nature reserves that preserve unique biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes. Among the most remarkable is the Plan de Tuéda Nature Reserve, located near Méribel, in the Allues Valley. This reserve, created in 1990, protects more than 1000 hectares of forests, alpine meadows and wetlands, providing a refuge for a particularly rich flora and fauna.
Other reserves such as the Hauts de Villaroger Nature Reserve, near Les Arcs, or the Contamines-Montjoie Reserve, also offer preserved landscapes and diverse ecosystems. These protected areas are havens of peace for nature lovers and precious sanctuaries for the conservation of the region's endemic species.
Respecting these reserves also means respecting their fragile balance, by staying on marked trails, limiting waste and observing wildlife from a distance so as not to disturb natural habitats.
Alpine flora
The alpine flora is incredibly diverse, with species adapted to the extreme conditions of altitude. You'll find iconic flowers like edelweiss, a symbol of purity and strength; blue gentian, used in herbal medicine; and mountain arnica, renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties. Lake Tuéda, the iconic heart of the reserve, is surrounded by majestic Swiss stone pines, a rare species in France.
Mountain fauna
The region's wildlife is equally remarkable. hiking in Savoie often offer the opportunity to observe ibex climbing rock faces, chamois leaping nimbly, marmots whistling to alert their colony, or even golden eagles soaring majestically above the ridges. With a little patience and discretion, you might also spot a lynx or a wolf, discreet inhabitants of the alpine forests.
Tips for preparing for your mountain adventure
The mountains, as beautiful as they are, can quickly become unpredictable and demanding. To fully enjoy your hiking in Savoie Without taking unnecessary risks, here are some essential tips to ensure your safety and that of your walking companions:
- Prepare your itinerary
- Choose a route suited to your level and fitness level. For added convenience, we can organize your outings with our partner mountain guides.
- Find out the duration, elevation gain and difficulty of the trail before setting off.
- Always inform a friend or family member of your route and expected return time. If possible, hike with others for added safety.
- Use topographic maps, GPS apps, or hiking guides to get to know your route.
- Check the weather
- Check the local weather forecast before you leave, as the weather can change quickly in the mountains.
- Be particularly wary of thunderstorms late in the day in summer and the risk of fog.
- In case of uncertain weather, do not hesitate to postpone your outing.
- Equip yourself correctly
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good non-slip soles.
- Dress in layers to accommodate changing temperatures.
- Bring a waterproof jacket, a hat or cap and sunglasses.
- Carry a small first aid kit for minor injuries and blisters.
- Don't forget sunscreen and a walking stick to relieve your knees on the way down.
- Hydrate and pack snacks
- Drink regularly to avoid dehydration, even in cool weather.
- Pack energy-boosting snacks like dried fruit, cereal bars, or chocolate to keep your energy up.
- Tell someone about your route
- Always inform a loved one of your route and expected return time.
- If possible, hike with several people for greater safety.
- Respect nature
- Stay on marked trails to preserve fragile ecosystems.
- Leave no litter behind and always take your rubbish home with you.
- Keep a respectful distance from wildlife to avoid disturbing it.
By following these tips, you will fully enjoy your experience of Mountain hiking, while respecting the unique landscapes and ecosystems of the Savoyard Alps.
DTrails for all, memories forever
Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a lover of physical challenges or a simple Sunday hiker, the Savoy Alps offer trails for all tastes and levels. With their breathtaking panoramas, wildlife, and rare flora, these mountains promise unforgettable adventures and lasting memories.
So, put on your hiking boots, prepare your backpack and set off to discover the hidden treasures of Savoie from your luxury chaletThe mountain awaits you, majestic and untamed, ready to reveal its secrets to those who dare to explore it.
