Aravis Range

Aravis Range

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  • 30+ Years Experience
  • Pack-Free Walking
  • Self-Guided Itineraries
  • Comfortable Stays
4.9/5reviews on

Overview

Tucked between Mont Blanc, Megève and Lake Annecy in the heart of the Haute Savoie, the Aravis Range is where the locals come to walk. Less visited than its famous neighbours but no less spectacular, this limestone massif rewards walkers with glorious alpine scenery, beautifully preserved villages and trails that feel genuinely off the beaten track.

The range is home to some of the most authentic villages in the French Alps, including Grand Bornand, Chinaillon and La Clusaz, sitting beneath the Pointe Percée, the highest summit in the Aravis at 2,750 metres. The walking spans high passes, open ridgelines and sweeping alpine meadows, with views stretching to Mont Blanc on a clear day.

The route ends at Lake Annecy, its turquoise waters framed by forested peaks, and one of the great finales in Alpine walking.

The Aravis Range experience

Wonder
Walk from St Jean de Sixt through the dramatic Aravis Range to the crystalline waters of Lake Annecy
The medieval old town of Annecy, known as the Venice of the Alps, awaits at journey's end
Mont Blanc is visible from several high points on the route, a constant presence to the south-west
Wellness
Self-guided alpine walking through one of the most scenic corners of the French Alps
Varied terrain from high mountain passes to gentle lakeside paths, suited to confident walkers
Fresh mountain air, alpine meadows, and the reward of Lake Annecy at the end of each stage
Nature
High alpine meadows and rocky Aravis peaks above the treeline on clear days
Walk through thick fir forest before the sudden reveal of brilliant blue Lake Annecy below
Limestone crags, forested ridgelines, and flowering alpine meadows define the Aravis landscape
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Local recommendations are coming soon.

Aravis Range reviews

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Deborah G
June 2026

Well organized walk. The views from the peak of our walks each day is a highlight. My husband and I are both in our 70’s and managed to keep to the hiking times stipulated. It was importing that we had a good level of fitness to complete the hikes in the Aravis Range.

Frequently Asked Questions

You'll stay in comfortable hotels throughout, all well set up for walkers with private ensuite rooms. The final night in Annecy is a step up — a lovely way to finish the walk. It's possible to add extra nights at the start or end of the trip.

Breakfasts and most dinners are included. Lunch is your own to sort each day. The villages along the route are known for outstanding local cheeses and cured meats, and if you stumble across a farmers' market, don't rush past it.

Let us know about any food allergies or intolerances at the time of booking so we can inform your hosts. If your requirements are severe, bring supplementary snacks from the city — ingredients can be hard to source in the mountains.

Yes, and it is a condition of booking. Your policy must cover injury, cancellation, luggage loss, and medical evacuation.

Tipping is not obligatory in France, but rounding up the bill at a cafe or restaurant is standard practice and always appreciated.

Yes, and it is a condition of booking. Your policy must cover injury, cancellation, luggage loss, and medical evacuation.

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