Arve Valley

Hiking in the Arve Valley

The Arve Valley is the major axis that crosses Haute-Savoie from north to south, from Geneva to Chamonix. It follows the course of the Arve, a glacial river that originates at the foot of Mont Blanc. Often crossed without stopping to reach the high-altitude resorts, it actually contains superb accessible hikes, perfect for a day out or a family outing without having to climb above 2,000 metres.

Bonneville, Cluses, Sallanches: ideal bases

The towns of Bonneville, Cluses and Sallanches are practical starting points to explore the mountains bordering the valley: Pointe d'Andey, Môle, Croisse Baulet, Tête du Colonney. These modest summits (between 1,500 and 2,700 m) nevertheless offer outstanding panoramas over the Mont-Blanc range. The Môle (1,863 m), above Bonneville, is nicknamed the Faucigny's viewpoint: a family ascent revealing a full 360° over the Aravis, Mont Blanc and Lake Geneva.

Rich side valleys

The Arve Valley also drains several side valleys that are genuine gems. The Passy-Plaine-Joux sector offers beautiful hikes to the Lac Vert, the Pointe Noire de Pormenaz or the Lac de Pormenaz. These routes give sweeping views over the Mont-Blanc range, with low-altitude starting points that pleasantly lengthen the effort. On the Cluses side, the Pâturages de la Duche and the Bargy trails from the Colombière pass are also great options.

From industry to nature

Historically known for its precision-engineering industry around Cluses, the Arve Valley has preserved remarkable natural areas. The routes around Le Reposoir and its Grande Chartreuse monastery combine heritage and nature. The season generally runs from May to November on the lower foothills, and from June to October on high-altitude routes. A perfect starting point to discover Haute-Savoie without necessarily targeting the highest peaks.