Top 5 hikes in Aravis
Published on 14/04/2025 by CAMPASUN
Let yourself be charmed by the exceptional variety of landscapes offered by the Aravis, this impressive mountain range that stretches proudly between Savoie and Haute-Savoie. Known for its vertiginous cliffs and green alpine pastures, the region is a must for all hiking enthusiasts. Prepare your backpacks, put on your best walking boots and discover 5 unforgettable hikes to do in the Aravis. Between dazzling viewpoints and varied trails, each course promises its share of adventures and discoveries. Embark on an adventure where nature, culture and physical exertion meet for the greatest happiness of hikers, just two steps from our campsite of the Grand Bornand.
Discovery of the Aravis: an immersion in high mountains
Majestic peaks such as Pointe Percée and Mont Charvin dominate the horizon, while the many passes and trails offer unique opportunities to explore the mountain in depth. The massif des Aravis is exceptionally well suited to escape, with trails that meet the desires of calm and solitude of hikers seeking the authenticity of a preserved nature.Each hiking route in the Aravis massif invites you to a real ballet of discoveries. The rocky walls mingle with the vast expanses of tender grass, and the mountain lakes mirror the splendor of the surrounding peaks. Thanks to detailed maps, everyone can plan their trip according to their level and their interests. Do not forget to bring your camera, because the panoramic views of the Mont Blanc massif and surrounding valleys are breathtaking and deserve to be immortalized.
The Lac des Confins circuit: a must-do hike
One of the most popular hiking routes in Aravis is around Lac des Confins. This hike is at the top of the list for many hikers and stands out for its accessibility and the beauty of the landscapes encountered.
- Distance: about 6 km
- Elevation: low
- Duration: about 2 hours
- Difficulty: easy
Bordered by mountains and pastures, the Lac des Confins is an alpine jewel that reflects the immensity of the sky. The path, often flat and wide, is suitable for families with young children and offers many opportunities to stop and picnic by the water. The itinerary can be completed with a visit to the Combe de I’Aravis nature reserve, enriching the hike with ecological and cultural discoveries.
The Pointe Percée: the iconic ascent of the Aravis
For adventurers in search of thrills and breathtaking views, the ascent of Pointe Percée is considered the Holy Grail of any hike in Aravis. Watching over the surrounding massifs from the top of its 2750 meters, Pointe Percée is the emblematic summit of the Aravis and offers a challenge worthy of this name to seasoned hikers.
The start of the hike is usually from the Col des Annes, offering a typical alpine setting with its traditional chalets. The route requires a certain technique and good mountain equipment, with a succession of rock falls and climbs without great technical difficulty, but sometimes dizzying. Once the difference in altitude of 1000 meters, the view from the summit on Mont Blanc and the valley is simply dazzling.
Le Plateau de Beauregard: family trail at the heart of the Aravis hike
The Plateau de Beauregard is a true haven of peace and an ideal playground for families. Starting from Thônes or the Col de la Croix Fry, this preserved space invites young and old to a refreshing hike in the Aravis massif. With its gentle slopes and wide views of the surrounding mountains, the Plateau de Beauregard is renowned for being a perfect place for hiking initiations.
On this plateau, hikers can follow trails that meander between alpine pastures and forests, while observing wildlife and alpine flora. The orientation tables installed along the way reveal a breathtaking view of Mount Charvin and the Aravis range, while huts and traditional inns allow you to enjoy local products in an enchanting setting. It is a family adventure that combines wonderfully relaxation, nature education and walking pleasure.
Les Aiguilles de Varan: a route for high-altitude hikers
Les Aiguilles de Varan is a popular destination for lovers of high hiking seeking to excel in the majestic setting of the Aravis. This route, located not far from the Giettaz in Savoie, promises a unique experience surrounded by vertiginous and wild landscapes. This demanding hike, both by its rugged trail and the aerial conditions encountered, rewards courageous hikers with breathtaking views of the Mont-Blanc, mountain lakes and deep valleys.With a high point at 2544 meters, the Varan Needles are not to be underestimated. It is essential to start preparing with detailed maps and have a reliable GPX starting file. The steep trails, narrow ridges and safe footpaths are reserved for those with good physical condition and mountain experience. The spectacular panorama at the summit reveals the purity of the alpine sky and gives the impression of touching the surrounding peaks.
Practical tips for a successful hike in the Aravis
For a successful hike in the Aravis, it is worth following some essential recommendations. First and foremost, it is essential to inform yourself about the weather before leaving, as conditions can change quickly in high mountains. Equip yourself with suitable clothing, good hiking shoes and the necessary safety equipment, especially if you are planning to travel high mountain routes.
The use of detailed maps and downloadable GPX files will help guide you and plan your route. You can download PDF of routes from many specialized sites that include useful information on the Aravis hike. Also, take into consideration your level and fitness; choose a path adapted to your abilities and do not neglect the rest periods.
Last but not least, remember to preserve the natural environment of the Aravis by staying on marked trails and leaving no trace of your passage. Thus, the beauty and richness of alpine biodiversity will be appreciated by hikers of tomorrow!
