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Petite Sambuy loop by Pas de l'Ours
Description
Challenging hike from the Sambuy parking lot up to the Petite Sambuy. Exceptional panorama over the Bauges Massif, the Aravis Massif, and the Mont-Blanc Massif.
Technical Information
Altimetric profile
Starting point
Additional information
Environments
Mountain view
Lake view
Updated by
Office de Tourisme des Sources du Lac d'Annecy - 09/06/2026
www.sources-lac-annecy.com
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Open period
From 01/01 to 31/12 daily.
Subject to favorable snow and weather conditions.
Contact
Phone : 04 50 44 60 24
Email : accueil@sources-lac-annecy.com
Website : http://www.sources-lac-annecy.com
Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/sources.lac.annecy.tourisme/
Tricky passages
The Pas de l’Ours is a very tricky passage, reserved for hikers accustomed to difficult routes. The section is equipped with a handrail.
Guidebook with maps/step-by-step
Start from the Sambuy parking lot and take the path on your right towards “Sommet station via the piste.”
A few meters further, at the Vargnoz junction, turn left. Then continue along the forest track to the “Plan du Vargnoz.” From here, go straight towards the “Pas de l’Ours.” A more accessible alternative is possible by continuing on the forest track to your right.
The Pas de l’Ours is a tricky section equipped with cables. You will need to use your hands to cross it. In this direction, you descend the Pas de l’Ours.
Continue along the trail; you will pass near the Bouchasse alpine pasture on your left, then follow the path towards the summit of the station and Petite Sambuy.
Once at the station summit at 1,830 m, you will find the Refuge Là Haut on your right. The trail continues towards the Col de la Sambuy.
The final climb to Petite Sambuy is quite steep, but you are rewarded with panoramic views and, if you’re lucky, the whistles of marmots!
At the Col de la Sambuy, you have 200 m left to reach the peak of Petite Sambuy and enjoy a well-deserved break with views over Lake Annecy and Mont-Blanc.
On the return to the station summit, descend via the forest track to complete a loop back to the parking lot.
Animals
No. Dogs are not allowed in the Bauges National Hunting and Wildlife Reserve.
