30 years' experience providing walking holidays worldwide
Established by 30 years' experience providing walking holidays worldwide
30 years' experience providing walking holidays worldwide
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Bravo!
Auswalk Walking Holiday rated "excellent" by232 travellers
-
SELF-GUIDED
-
7 DAYS
-
Challenging
PRICE FROM
€ 1,175 per person
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
€ 510 per person
WALK MENU
OVERVIEW
OVERVIEW
Hike the breathtaking Aravis mountains to Lake Annecy from St Jean de Sixt via stunning, well-preserved villages, including Grand-Bornand, Chinaillon, Clusaz, and Talloires. Enjoy yourself in the mountains and alpine meadows right next door to the Tour du Mont Blanc route. This walk has it all: mountains, lakes, authentic secluded old villages, glorious alpine meadows, and centuries-old accommodations.
This is where the locals come to hike, away from the crowds. The Aravis Mountain Range adorned with the stunning Pointe Percée is surrounded by Mont Blanc, Lake Annecy, and Megève in the heart of the Haute Savoie region.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Visit and stay in quaint authentic alpine villages in 3 and 4-star hotels
- Hike the Alps and glorious alpine meadows and soak up the amazing views
- End at stunning Lake Annecy, one of the most beautiful panoramic views in all of the Alps
- Walk off the beaten track in one of the most beautiful areas in the Alps adjacent to the Tour Mont Blanc region – add Tour du Mont Blanc; please see our 9-day offer
- Walk worry-free with a company with over 30 years of experience in providing self-guided holidays
ITINERARY
DAY one
Arrive St Jean de Sixt
Arrive at this quiet, authentic French Alpine town of St Jean de Sixt any time throughout the day. St Jean is either a short 50-60 minute transfer from Geneva Airport, or you can take a less costly train ride to Annecy and either a bus or taxi from there, which takes about 10 to 20 mins more.
Relax in your hotel or explore this beautiful little French town and the surrounding area.
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: 3-star hotel in St Jean de Sixt
DAY two
St Jean de Sixt to La Clusaz
Today, there is the choice of two walks to explore the Confins Plateau above St Jean de Sixt as you make your way to La Clusaz.
The shorter option has you hike over the Tete du Danay (1731m) and through the beautiful Mouilles de la Perriere. Enjoy the first of many stunning panoramas of the Aravis Ranges to the east and Mont Lachat de Chatillon and the Bouchet Valley.
The other option, which is our recommendation, is to walk over the Aravis Pass via Pointe de Beauregard.
Distance: 9km or 21km
Ascent: 750m or 1220m
Descent: 350m or 830m
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: 3-star hotel in La Clusaz
DAY three
La Clusaz to Le Chinaillon
Immerse yourself in the Alps in the Confins Plateau, with its idyllic picturesque meadows before reaching the Bouchet Valley’s end, surrounded by the Pointe du Roulletaz (2077m) and the towering Point Percee (2750m) . You’ll cross the pass of Borneronde and on to the Pass of Annes (1721m). Lunch at a quintessential alpine scene beside an alpine hut at Annes Pass. Before winding your way around via a spectacular ridge under Pointes d’Almet, Grande Combe and Pointe de Deux Heures to Chinaillon, where you will stay tonight.
Distance: 15km
Ascent: 800m
Descent: 850m
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: 3 star hotel in Chinaillion
DAY four
Summit Pointe de Balafrasse or to Tete d'Auferrand
This is an epic day of hiking with the choice of two walks. From Le Chinaillon, you make your way to the Chalets at Guillery and Col de la Colombiere.
From the pass, the first option is to climb Pointe de Balafrasse’s summit (2296m) via Peyre Lake, which is the heart of the Bargy Range. Panoramic views are your reward. The other option is to hike to the summit of Tete d’Aufferand (1981m) along a ridge under Pointe de la Botte. Then, you can make your way back to Le Chinaillon via Aufferand farm and the Col de la Colombiere.
Distance: 13km or 14.5km
Ascent: 1000m or 790m
Descent: 1000m or 790m
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: 3 star hotel in Chinaillion
DAY five
Le Chinaillon to Le Grand Bornand
Ascend the Aiguille Verte Ridge (2069m), with spectacular views overlooking Lessy Lake and Aravis or Pointe Percee. Traverse the Col de la Forclaz and then meander down to the small village of Mayse, a great place to stock up for lunch.
Climb up and over Planay Pass, which is located between the Roc des Tours and the Roc des Charmieux. From here, the track winds its way down to Mouillies, onto Tannez, and eventually to Le Grand Bornand, where you will rest tonight.
Distance:18km
Ascent: 1070m
Descent: 1450m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Le Grand Bornand
DAY six
Le Grand Bornand to Annecy
Today begins with a private transfer to the beginning of the walk at Montremont. The hike begins with a climb to Nantets Pass (1425m) along the highest ridge, La Tournette (2351m) overlooking Lake Annecy. From here, you descend into Dents de Lanfon and a little later to Tallories near the lake. There are 2 options for this walk today from 9 – 14.5km. From here, you take the boat that travels around the lake (at a small cost) into Annecy via a few beautiful hamlets on the lake (a bus at a small cost is also available).
Distance: 9km or 14.5km
Ascent: 600m or 850m
Descent: 1000m or 1270m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Annecy
DAY seven
Onward Travel optional Smugglers Pass
Another beautiful walk from Col de Bluffy that crosses Smugglers Pass and then winds its way onto Mont Baron is available today if you have time. From here, you will walk on the ridge underneath Mont Veyrier (1291m) and descend to the edge of Lake Annecy again—a lovely way to finish the expedition around the Alps.
Depending on your onward travel plans, you may also want to explore the town of Annecy further. There, you can enjoy many activities, including water activities on the lake.
If you wish to stay an extra night, please let us know.
Distance: 11.4km
Ascent: 735m
Descent: 920m
Meals: Breakfast
WHAT’S INCLUDED
- Walk pack free with luggage transfers from accommodation to accommodation arranged for you
- 6 breakfasts and 4 dinners
- Private transfer day 6 from Thones to Montremont
- Itineraries can be flexible to account for weather conditions
- Rest days can be added if you would like to explore the region further
- Enjoy worry-free navigation with Stroll’s app with GPX tracks
- 6 nights in 3 star accommodation (4 star accommodation in Annecy) in private rooms with ensuites and tourist taxes
- Luggage transfers – access to your main luggage every evening –Bags up to 15kg maximum (this is French legislation)
ACCOMMODATION & DINING
During this tour, you will stay in 3* hotels or auberges and a 4-star hotel in Annecy. All the accommodations are accustomed to welcoming hikers and are very well-equipped to make your stay comfortable regardless of the weather conditions. Rooms are typically better than very comfortable. The hotels provide what you would expect from standard 3-star and 4-star hotels, including spas and sometimes pools. We will discuss these options with you during the booking process.
Dining
You will be provided with 6 breakfasts and 4 dinners. If you have any food allergies or intolerances, please let us know when you book so we can inform your hosts. If you have severe food allergies, it’s always worth bringing snacks, especially as ingredients and supplies can be hard to obtain in the mountains.
The towns and villages you pass through are renowned for their specialty cheeses and meats (many of which continue to be produced by hand). If you’re lucky enough to encounter a local farmers’ market, the choice and range of local foods are staggering. Some of your accommodations can also prepare a picnic lunch for you (at an additional cost).
GENERAL INFO
AVAILABILITY
This walk is available from 15th June through to 10th September.
Some of the trails might remain closed due to heavy snowfall before mid-June. If this happens, we will do our best to reschedule the tour for a later date.
THE WALKING
Challenging—Tracks and trails on this tour will have prolonged ascents and descents, sections of rough surface, and steps. An active lifestyle and being an experienced walker make the journey enjoyable. We suggest an exercise regime of 3 to 4 times a week in addition to your usual weekly walks. See the fitness guide.
You will walk around 16km a day and climb an average of 820m a day (up to optional 1400m). The well-defined and waymarked trails cover various terrains, including high alpine pastures, rocky mountain paths, mountain, lake towns and villages.
Although the route is well-waymarked for each walk, you will be provided with a comprehensive summary of daily walks, maps (and GPX tracks), and our app for your device with GPX tracks.
HOW TO GET THERE AND AWAY
This walk starts in St Jean de Sixt. The closest airport is Geneva Airport. There are many ways to get to Geneva including flying and by train.
Geneva Airport to St Jean de Sixt
There are a few ways to get to St Jean de Sixt. A taxi which is expensive (about 280 Euro). The ‘metro’ train is located at Geneva airport. It is a short ride 10 minute ride into the centre of Geneva on the ‘metro’
By train/bus from Geneva airport to Annecy then taxi: some buses are direct (approx 2 – 2.5 hours); www.sbb.ch/en. There are about 13 trains a day. From Annecy train station to St Jean de Sixt in a taxi (approx 105 Euro one way). Taxis are located at the train station in Annecy. By train/bus from Geneva airport to Annecy then bus (only available in July/August): see above for train or bus information. From Annecy train station to St Jean de Sixt by bus: Voyages Alpbus.
Onward Travel From Annecy
The trip ends in Annecy. From here, there are many options to travel all over Europe, including Paris, or back to Geneva.
Another helpful planning tool for travel is Rome2Rio should you be travelling from or to other destinations.
LUGGAGE
Each morning, it will be up to you to place your luggage at the designated luggage pick-up point within the hotel by 8.00 am. This generally will be at reception or where you pick up your luggage the night before. Please consult your hosts if you need any details. Bags must be no more than 15kg (this is French legislation)
INSURANCE
We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.
For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.
We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office.
See our FAQ section for more information.
CONTACT
If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants. You can get in touch with us via our contact form or email us at info@stroll.com
MAP
DEPARTURE DATES
-
DATESAVAILABILITYPRICESingle OccupancyDetails
-
15 Jun 2025 - 10 Sep 2025AVAILABLE
from € 1290
SINGLE OCCUPANCY€ 5102 PAX
-
15 Jun 2025 - 10 Sep 2025AVAILABLE
from € 1175
SINGLE OCCUPANCY€ 5104 PAX OR MORE
-
15 Jun 2026 - 10 Sep 2026AVAILABLE
from € 1225
SINGLE OCCUPANCY€ 5304 PAX OR MORE
-
15 Jun 2026 - 10 Sep 2026AVAILABLE
from € 1335
SINGLE OCCUPANCY€ 5302 PAX
sections
Overview
Hike the breathtaking Aravis mountains to Lake Annecy from St Jean de Sixt via stunning, well-preserved villages, including Grand-Bornand, Chinaillon, Clusaz, and Talloires. Enjoy yourself in the mountains and alpine meadows right next door to the Tour du Mont Blanc route. This walk has it all: mountains, lakes, authentic secluded old villages, glorious alpine meadows, and centuries-old accommodations.
This is where the locals come to hike, away from the crowds. The Aravis Mountain Range adorned with the stunning Pointe Percée is surrounded by Mont Blanc, Lake Annecy, and Megève in the heart of the Haute Savoie region.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Visit and stay in quaint authentic alpine villages in 3 and 4-star hotels
- Hike the Alps and glorious alpine meadows and soak up the amazing views
- End at stunning Lake Annecy, one of the most beautiful panoramic views in all of the Alps
- Walk off the beaten track in one of the most beautiful areas in the Alps adjacent to the Tour Mont Blanc region – add Tour du Mont Blanc; please see our 9-day offer
- Walk worry-free with a company with over 30 years of experience in providing self-guided holidays
Itinerary
DAY one
Arrive St Jean de Sixt
Arrive at this quiet, authentic French Alpine town of St Jean de Sixt any time throughout the day. St Jean is either a short 50-60 minute transfer from Geneva Airport, or you can take a less costly train ride to Annecy and either a bus or taxi from there, which takes about 10 to 20 mins more.
Relax in your hotel or explore this beautiful little French town and the surrounding area.
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: 3-star hotel in St Jean de Sixt
DAY two
St Jean de Sixt to La Clusaz
Today, there is the choice of two walks to explore the Confins Plateau above St Jean de Sixt as you make your way to La Clusaz.
The shorter option has you hike over the Tete du Danay (1731m) and through the beautiful Mouilles de la Perriere. Enjoy the first of many stunning panoramas of the Aravis Ranges to the east and Mont Lachat de Chatillon and the Bouchet Valley.
The other option, which is our recommendation, is to walk over the Aravis Pass via Pointe de Beauregard.
Distance: 9km or 21km
Ascent: 750m or 1220m
Descent: 350m or 830m
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: 3-star hotel in La Clusaz
DAY three
La Clusaz to Le Chinaillon
Immerse yourself in the Alps in the Confins Plateau, with its idyllic picturesque meadows before reaching the Bouchet Valley’s end, surrounded by the Pointe du Roulletaz (2077m) and the towering Point Percee (2750m) . You’ll cross the pass of Borneronde and on to the Pass of Annes (1721m). Lunch at a quintessential alpine scene beside an alpine hut at Annes Pass. Before winding your way around via a spectacular ridge under Pointes d’Almet, Grande Combe and Pointe de Deux Heures to Chinaillon, where you will stay tonight.
Distance: 15km
Ascent: 800m
Descent: 850m
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: 3 star hotel in Chinaillion
DAY four
Summit Pointe de Balafrasse or to Tete d'Auferrand
This is an epic day of hiking with the choice of two walks. From Le Chinaillon, you make your way to the Chalets at Guillery and Col de la Colombiere.
From the pass, the first option is to climb Pointe de Balafrasse’s summit (2296m) via Peyre Lake, which is the heart of the Bargy Range. Panoramic views are your reward. The other option is to hike to the summit of Tete d’Aufferand (1981m) along a ridge under Pointe de la Botte. Then, you can make your way back to Le Chinaillon via Aufferand farm and the Col de la Colombiere.
Distance: 13km or 14.5km
Ascent: 1000m or 790m
Descent: 1000m or 790m
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: 3 star hotel in Chinaillion
DAY five
Le Chinaillon to Le Grand Bornand
Ascend the Aiguille Verte Ridge (2069m), with spectacular views overlooking Lessy Lake and Aravis or Pointe Percee. Traverse the Col de la Forclaz and then meander down to the small village of Mayse, a great place to stock up for lunch.
Climb up and over Planay Pass, which is located between the Roc des Tours and the Roc des Charmieux. From here, the track winds its way down to Mouillies, onto Tannez, and eventually to Le Grand Bornand, where you will rest tonight.
Distance:18km
Ascent: 1070m
Descent: 1450m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Le Grand Bornand
DAY six
Le Grand Bornand to Annecy
Today begins with a private transfer to the beginning of the walk at Montremont. The hike begins with a climb to Nantets Pass (1425m) along the highest ridge, La Tournette (2351m) overlooking Lake Annecy. From here, you descend into Dents de Lanfon and a little later to Tallories near the lake. There are 2 options for this walk today from 9 – 14.5km. From here, you take the boat that travels around the lake (at a small cost) into Annecy via a few beautiful hamlets on the lake (a bus at a small cost is also available).
Distance: 9km or 14.5km
Ascent: 600m or 850m
Descent: 1000m or 1270m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Annecy
DAY seven
Onward Travel optional Smugglers Pass
Another beautiful walk from Col de Bluffy that crosses Smugglers Pass and then winds its way onto Mont Baron is available today if you have time. From here, you will walk on the ridge underneath Mont Veyrier (1291m) and descend to the edge of Lake Annecy again—a lovely way to finish the expedition around the Alps.
Depending on your onward travel plans, you may also want to explore the town of Annecy further. There, you can enjoy many activities, including water activities on the lake.
If you wish to stay an extra night, please let us know.
Distance: 11.4km
Ascent: 735m
Descent: 920m
Meals: Breakfast
What’s Included
- Walk pack free with luggage transfers from accommodation to accommodation arranged for you
- 6 breakfasts and 4 dinners
- Private transfer day 6 from Thones to Montremont
- Itineraries can be flexible to account for weather conditions
- Rest days can be added if you would like to explore the region further
- Enjoy worry-free navigation with Stroll’s app with GPX tracks
- 6 nights in 3 star accommodation (4 star accommodation in Annecy) in private rooms with ensuites and tourist taxes
- Luggage transfers – access to your main luggage every evening –Bags up to 15kg maximum (this is French legislation)
Accommodation & Dining
During this tour, you will stay in 3* hotels or auberges and a 4-star hotel in Annecy. All the accommodations are accustomed to welcoming hikers and are very well-equipped to make your stay comfortable regardless of the weather conditions. Rooms are typically better than very comfortable. The hotels provide what you would expect from standard 3-star and 4-star hotels, including spas and sometimes pools. We will discuss these options with you during the booking process.
Dining
You will be provided with 6 breakfasts and 4 dinners. If you have any food allergies or intolerances, please let us know when you book so we can inform your hosts. If you have severe food allergies, it’s always worth bringing snacks, especially as ingredients and supplies can be hard to obtain in the mountains.
The towns and villages you pass through are renowned for their specialty cheeses and meats (many of which continue to be produced by hand). If you’re lucky enough to encounter a local farmers’ market, the choice and range of local foods are staggering. Some of your accommodations can also prepare a picnic lunch for you (at an additional cost).
General Info
AVAILABILITY
This walk is available from 15th June through to 10th September.
Some of the trails might remain closed due to heavy snowfall before mid-June. If this happens, we will do our best to reschedule the tour for a later date.
THE WALKING
Challenging—Tracks and trails on this tour will have prolonged ascents and descents, sections of rough surface, and steps. An active lifestyle and being an experienced walker make the journey enjoyable. We suggest an exercise regime of 3 to 4 times a week in addition to your usual weekly walks. See the fitness guide.
You will walk around 16km a day and climb an average of 820m a day (up to optional 1400m). The well-defined and waymarked trails cover various terrains, including high alpine pastures, rocky mountain paths, mountain, lake towns and villages.
Although the route is well-waymarked for each walk, you will be provided with a comprehensive summary of daily walks, maps (and GPX tracks), and our app for your device with GPX tracks.
HOW TO GET THERE AND AWAY
This walk starts in St Jean de Sixt. The closest airport is Geneva Airport. There are many ways to get to Geneva including flying and by train.
Geneva Airport to St Jean de Sixt
There are a few ways to get to St Jean de Sixt. A taxi which is expensive (about 280 Euro). The ‘metro’ train is located at Geneva airport. It is a short ride 10 minute ride into the centre of Geneva on the ‘metro’
By train/bus from Geneva airport to Annecy then taxi: some buses are direct (approx 2 – 2.5 hours); www.sbb.ch/en. There are about 13 trains a day. From Annecy train station to St Jean de Sixt in a taxi (approx 105 Euro one way). Taxis are located at the train station in Annecy. By train/bus from Geneva airport to Annecy then bus (only available in July/August): see above for train or bus information. From Annecy train station to St Jean de Sixt by bus: Voyages Alpbus.
Onward Travel From Annecy
The trip ends in Annecy. From here, there are many options to travel all over Europe, including Paris, or back to Geneva.
Another helpful planning tool for travel is Rome2Rio should you be travelling from or to other destinations.
LUGGAGE
Each morning, it will be up to you to place your luggage at the designated luggage pick-up point within the hotel by 8.00 am. This generally will be at reception or where you pick up your luggage the night before. Please consult your hosts if you need any details. Bags must be no more than 15kg (this is French legislation)
INSURANCE
We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.
For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.
We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office.
See our FAQ section for more information.
CONTACT
If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants. You can get in touch with us via our contact form or email us at info@stroll.com
Departure Dates
-
DATESAVAILABILITYPRICESingle OccupancyDETAILS
-
Date15 Jun 2025 - 10 Sep 2025AVAILIBILITYAVAILABLEPRICEfrom € 1290SINGLE OCCUPANCY€ 510DETAILS
2 PAX
-
Date15 Jun 2025 - 10 Sep 2025AVAILIBILITYAVAILABLEPRICEfrom € 1175SINGLE OCCUPANCY€ 510DETAILS
4 PAX OR MORE
-
Date15 Jun 2026 - 10 Sep 2026AVAILIBILITYAVAILABLEPRICEfrom € 1225SINGLE OCCUPANCY€ 530DETAILS
4 PAX OR MORE
-
Date15 Jun 2026 - 10 Sep 2026AVAILIBILITYAVAILABLEPRICEfrom € 1335SINGLE OCCUPANCY€ 530DETAILS
2 PAX
ENQUIRE NOW
If you’re looking for further information on any of our walking holidays please fill out the enquiry form and we’ll be in touch.