Trekking on the ridges of the Val d'Arly facing Mont Blanc
In summary
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Sports
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Duration6 days
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LevelAdvance
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DestinationBeaufortain Massif / Savoy
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AgeFrom 18 - 90 years
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CO₂-Emissions44.03 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
English
In a few words
This multi-day trek in the heart of the Val d'Arly reveals a wild and secluded mountain landscape, nestled between panoramic ridges , unspoiled alpine pastures , and authentic Savoyard villages . From Flumet to Notre-Dame-de-Bellecombe, the route follows quiet high-altitude trails , offering contrasting scenery each day: shady forests , sweeping views of the Aravis mountain range , secluded valleys , and exceptional nature reserves . The majestic and ever-present Mont Blanc provides a constant backdrop. This accessible trek alternates between scenic balcony paths , gentle summit ascents , and convivial stays in welcoming mountain huts or guesthouses , where you can enjoy generous local cuisine . It's the perfect trek to immerse yourself in a vibrant mountain environment , experiencing unspoiled nature , authentic encounters , and wide-open spaces .
The highlights
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The ridges of the Val d'Arly with constant views of Mont Blanc
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Savoyard mountain huts and guesthouses for convivial and gourmet evenings
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Discover the Saisies peat bog, a protected natural gem with rare biodiversity.
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
The expert's opinion
- You are able to walk 5 to 7 hours a day, with regular breaks.
- You can handle daily elevation changes of 600 to 1000 m (up/down).
- You engage in regular physical activity (walking, running, cycling…), even if you are not an experienced mountaineer.
- You like to do several days of walking with a bag (lightweight, because of reduced carrying and comfortable accommodations).
In figures
Hiking
- Average distance/day: 14 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 750 m
Management
French
English
As a trained engineer and teacher, I am passionate about sharing my knowledge through immersion in Nature and the living world, and about continuously learning alongside you. But the mountains are also a wonderful place for personal growth and escape; there's something for everyone: naturalists, dreamers, athletes, bon vivants… Lace up your boots, the journey has already begun!
Program
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Day 1
- Activity Hiking
- Distance 12 km
- Positive elevation gain 1060 m
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
We arrived in Flumet in the morning before heading up the Arrondine River. The trail winds its way between alpine chalets and remnants of pastoral life. After a panoramic lunch at the summit of Gâteau, the route continues towards Signal du Sac and then Tête du Torraz, a viewpoint overlooking the Aravis mountain range. A gentle descent leads to the Plan de l'Aar refuge for our first night at altitude.
Day 1 -
Day 2
- Activity Hiking
- Distance 13 km
- Positive elevation gain 630 m
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
The day begins with a series of summits: Christomet, Bonjournal, and Petit Croisse Baulet. The panoramas expand with every step, stretching from Mont Blanc to the surrounding mountains. After the Col du Jaillet, the descent leads to the vast alpine pastures of Ramadieu, before reaching La Giettaz through the woods. Overnight stay in a friendly hotel in the heart of the village.
Day 2 -
Day 3
- Activity Hiking
- Distance 16 km
- Positive elevation gain 960 m
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
From La Giettaz, the trail crosses the Stamochère alpine pastures and ascends the Foiroux valley, bordered by a crystal-clear stream. The summit of Blanchet offers an unobstructed view of the surrounding mountains. The hike continues along the legendary Route de la Soif (Thirst Route), a superb balcony trail. The descent leads to Saint-Nicolas-la-Chapelle, where you'll spend the night in a Savoyard gîte renowned for its cuisine.
Day 3 -
Day 4
- Activity Hiking
- Distance 13 km
- Positive elevation gain 940 m
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After crossing the Arly River, the ascent continues gently through the spruce trees to Crest-Voland, then on to the summit of Lachat. Depending on the group's wishes, an extension allows hikers to cross the Saisies peat bog nature reserve, a fragile and fascinating environment. The day ends at the Lachat refuge, in a simple and peaceful atmosphere.
Day 4 -
Day 5
- Activity Hiking
- Distance 13 km
- Positive elevation gain 670 m
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
The day begins with a descent to the Nant Rouge stream before the climb to the Chard du Beurre summit. The ridge path then unfolds a succession of spectacular viewpoints: the Col de la Lézette pass, a lake, and natural viewpoints such as Mont Clocher. A gentler stage, ideal for savoring the scenery, precedes the arrival at the Croix de Pierre refuge.
Day 5 -
Day 6
- Activity Hiking
- Distance 14 km
- Positive elevation gain 240 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
To conclude the trip, the ascent of Mont de Vorès offers a 360° panoramic view of the entire massif. The descent follows an airy ridge, passing by Ban Rouge and Roc des Evettes. The route then leads to Notre-Dame-de-Bellecombe, the final point of this alpine traverse, before returning to Flumet.
Day 6
Accommodation
Access
Go to the starting point
From these stations, you will need to take a bus or regional coach (Cars Région / Altibus) or taxi to Flumet.
Price details
The price includes
- The trip will be led by Etienne, an experienced mountain guide.
- Accommodation in mountain huts, hotels or comfortable guesthouses
- All meals from dinner on Day 1 until the last picnic on Day 6 (meals are cooked by local chefs to introduce you to regional specialties and products)
The price does not include
- The round trip to the meeting point
- Day 1 picnic
- Any personal consumption
- Anything not listed under "Price includes"
Options
- Additional night before the stay : CHF91.48 / person
- Additional night after the stay : CHF91.48 / person
- 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.
