The 2000m peaks of the Bauges: a trilogy of hiking to the summits
In summary
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Sports
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Duration3 days
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LevelAdvance
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DestinationBauges Mountains / Chambéry
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AgeFrom 18 - 65 years
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CO₂-Emissions37.5 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
In a few words
Explore the wild peaks of the Bauges massif , a preserved gem between Annecy, Chambéry and Albertville. During three days of challenging trekking , you will set off accompanied by a mountain professional to take on a challenge: reaching the emblematic summits of this secluded alpine territory — Arcalod, Trélod, Pécloz .
Each summit reveals a unique atmosphere : vertiginous ridges, peaceful alpine pastures, and deep forests follow one another, offering breathtaking panoramas. This territory, classified as a UNESCO Global Geopark, is home to exceptional biodiversity: chamois, golden eagles , as well as a delicate and varied flora.
Designed for experienced hikers , this trip combines physical exertion , connection with nature, and a sense of community in an authentic mountain atmosphere. A journey of character for those who wish to venture off the beaten path and experience an intense alpine adventure in the heart of a little-known but spectacular mountain range.
The highlights
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3 peaks over 2000m
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Aerial & Sports Trails
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Comfortable accommodation
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
In figures
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 7h
- Average distance/day: 12 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 1263 m
- Average daily descent: 1353 m
- Exposed Passages: Yes
Management
French
We work together and we know each other, that's the strength of a true partnership.
Trekking guide with expertise in the Bauges mountain range.
Program
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Cornes Parking - Mont Trélod (2181m) - Doucy-Dessous
- Transportation Car - 00h20 - 7km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 7h
- Distance 11 km
- Positive elevation gain 1236 m
- Negative elevation 1508 m
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
After a direct and sustained climb , you reach the ridge and continue your hike along a high-altitude traverse towards Trélod , then Dent de Pleuven (1771m). Throughout this ridge walk, the entire Bauges mountain range unfolds before your eyes… as well as the majestic peaks of the Northern Alps , visible in the distance. A panoramic route that rewards the effort of the ascent.
Day 1 -
Bellevaux Valley - Mont Pécloz (2197m) - Bellevaux Valley
- Transportation Car - 00h30 - 20km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 7h30
- Distance 12 km
- Positive elevation gain 1369 m
- Negative elevation 1369 m
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
An early start to reach Pécloz via its spectacular western ridge , the ideal route to avoid the heat while traversing the nature reserve and its treasures. A gradual ascent in a protected setting where flora and fauna are omnipresent.
From the summit, the view extends to the left over the entire Bauges mountain range , to the right over the Belledonne, Chartreuse, and Vanoise massifs, and straight ahead over Mont Blanc . The technical descent requires caution before reaching the Armènaz ski lifts , the ascent of which remains optional (149m elevation gain). You will then reach the Chalet des Gardes , before concluding the stage at the Bellevaux monastery .
Day 2 -
Nant Fourchu - Pointe de l'Arcalod (2217m) - Nant Fourchu
- Transportation Car - 00h40 - 25km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 6h30
- Distance 12 km
- Positive elevation gain 1182 m
- Negative elevation 1182 m
- Exposed passages Yes
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
The day begins in the peaceful alpine pastures of Orgeval , enlivened by marmots , cows , and traditional chalets . The ascent leads you to the Col d'Orgeval , offering a spectacular view of Haute-Savoie and the impressive railways of the Armènaz , already glimpsed the day before.
The ascent continues towards the highest point of the Bauges Massif , with a slow and technical climb requiring good footing … and sometimes the use of hands. At the summit, the soaring ridge of the Arcalod stands out against a magnificent backdrop. The panorama stretches from the Vercors to Mont Blanc , from the Chartreuse to the Vanoise , offering a moment of pure awe before the immensity of the Alps.
Day 3
Accommodation
- Heart of the Bauges, old town
- Outdoor space
- Close to all amenities
- Access to a fully equipped kitchen
Access
Go to the starting point
Access by train:
Francony bus service from Aix-les-Bains, Annecy, or Chambéry train stations. Timetables are available on the website www.francony.com or by calling 04 79 54 81 23. For Aix-les-Bains train station, please note: the bus stop is at the crossroads opposite the right-hand corner of the street.
Access by road:
From Aix les Bains (30 kms), exit Aix Nord motorway A41, follow Massif des Bauges via Grésy sur Aix, Cusy, Lescheraines then le Châtelard.
Price details
The price includes
- Supervision by a state-certified guide
- Accommodation in a guest house in a double, twin, triple or quadruple room
- Full board
- The return shuttle on Day 1
The price does not include
- Personal expenses, drinks
- Day 1 picnic
- Round-trip transportation for the start of hikes (carpooling with the guide whenever possible)
Options
- Extra night before stay - Single room : CHF106.12 / unit
- Extra night before stay - Double room : CHF135.39 / unit
- Extra night before stay - Twin room : CHF135.39 / unit
- Extra night before stay - Triple room : CHF203.09 / unit
- Extra night before stay - Quadruple room : CHF270.78 / unit
- Additional night after stay - Single room : CHF106.12 / unit
- Additional night after stay - Double room : CHF135.39 / unit
- Extra night after stay - Twin room : CHF135.39 / unit
- Extra night after stay - Triple room : CHF203.09 / unit
- Additional night after stay - Quadruple room : CHF270.78 / unit
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment to bring
- water bottle (2L)
- high-top, waterproof walking shoes
- backpack (20L minimum)
- hat or cap
- category 3 sunglasses
- sunscreen
- small pharmacy
- telescopic poles (recommended)
Clothing to bring
- Layer 1: Lightweight windproof layer (Gore-Tex type) with good waterproofing
- Layer 2: Fleece
- Layer 3: merino wool or base layer
- rain cape
- hat or headband
- shorts or walking pants
