From Evian to Chamonix: hiking independently from Lake Geneva to Mont Blanc

For this step, you have two options:

1. Transfer to the Chalets de Bise: your adventure will begin with an ascent to the Pas de la Bosse, located at 1815 meters, where you can observe chamois on the north face of the Cornettes. Next, you will traverse towards Mont Chauffé and cross the Col d'Ubine at 1694 meters. The atmosphere on the north face of Mont Chauffé is truly unique! You will then descend to the south-facing slope to reach La Chapelle d'Abondance, passing by the Rochers de l'Aiguille, from where you will enjoy a magnificent view over the Chatel Valley.
2. Transfer to Bernex: a longer and therefore slightly more challenging option. The route begins at the foot of the Dent d'Oche, an iconic peak of the massif recognizable by its distinctive silhouette, and you will cross two mountain passes. Lake Darbon will suddenly appear, like an unexpected surprise. You will then traverse the vast Bise alpine pasture, dominated by the Cornettes de Bise, another iconic peak of the massif. After a final climb to a third pass, you will begin your descent towards La Chapelle d'Abondance.

You are now in the heart of the Abondance Valley, famous for its verdant alpine pastures, its breed of cows with distinctive "sunglasses" markings, and its delicious cheese. Mont de Grange, reaching 2,432 meters, is the highest point in this region, and it is this peak that you will explore today on a long and magnificent stage. You will begin your ascent early to the Col des Mattes at 1,930 meters. From there, a traverse along a balcony path will offer breathtaking views of the peaks that will mark your route in the coming days, such as the Pointe de Chesery at 2,251 meters and the Dents du Midi at 3,257 meters. You will end your day with a descent to a charming little chapel, before arriving at your accommodation.

You are now in the heart of the Abondance Valley, famous for its verdant alpine pastures, its breed of cows with distinctive "sunglasses" markings, and its delicious cheese. Mont de Grange, reaching 2,432 meters, is the highest point in this region, and it is this peak that you will explore today on a long and magnificent stage. You will begin your ascent early to the Col des Mattes at 1,930 meters. From there, a traverse along a balcony path will offer breathtaking views of the peaks that will mark your route in the coming days, such as the Pointe de Chesery at 2,251 meters and the Dents du Midi at 3,257 meters. You will end your day with a descent to a charming little chapel, before arriving at your accommodation.

This pass is legendary for its many smuggling stories, but it's also a prime location for ornithologists who study bird migration. You'll also discover the tales surrounding the Cursed Lands, an imposing 600-meter-high cliff at the start of your hike. Next, you'll climb to the Col de la Golèse at 1660 meters. A traverse will take you to the Bostan refuge, before descending towards Samoëns via the Allamands valley.

A 10-minute transfer will take you to Sixt. From there, you'll begin the ascent to the Col d'Anterne, at 2,257 meters. This long and varied climb will first lead you through a forest dotted with waterfalls, then past the impressive cliffs of the Pointe de Salles, which rise to 2,500 meters. You'll also cross the Montagne d'Anterne, a vast limestone plateau, where you'll discover a high-altitude lake. Upon reaching the pass, you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking panorama of the Mont Blanc massif, followed by a short descent to the refuge.

The descent to the Arlevé bridge will be etched in your memory, as you enter one of the last remaining areas of original vegetation in Haute-Savoie. After crossing the impressive Diosaz gorges, you will climb back up to the Brévent pass, which offers a breathtaking view of Mont Blanc.

You will have the option of reaching the summit of Brévent, at 2525 meters, and then descending by cable car and gondola to Chamonix. Alternatively, from the pass, you can descend to Planpraz and take the gondola to Chamonix.

Elevation gain: +770 m or +925 m; -740 m or -410 m Length: 10 km Time: 5:30 am