Hiking Trail: Le Sapin Président (President Fir) - from Le Grand Arvet

Superb coniferous tree aged 275 years old (in 2021), with remarkable measurements: it is 47 m high and has a 4.10 m circumference (in 2011). It flourishes in the middle of the forest on the St Martin hillside, at about 1000 m altitude. This is a very pleasant place to visit with children.

This extended version of a must-do hike follows a well-maintained, shady forest track. At the end, the Véran valley opens up before you, framed by the dramatic cliffs of Croix de Fer and its beautiful mountain pastures.Starting from the Besseray car park in Saint-Martin, this hike gradually climbs towards the Véran mountain pastures. It begins along the semi-paved Crève-Cœur road, passing through the hamlets of Les Plagnes, Petit-Arvet and Grand-Arvet. The climb then continues along a forest track winding its way up the mountainside. The trees provide welcome shade along the route, while several points of interest add to the experience, including the Sapin Président, an impressive tree well worth the short detour, especially with children. After crossing the Crève-Cœur stream, the slope becomes slightly steeper for a short stretch before easing back into a more regular ascent. The track continues through the forest until a final clearing, where the Arpenaz stream announces your approach to the mountain pastures. As you approach Véran, the mountain becomes a place of life and work too. Cows and sheep spend the summer here under the care of the alpine herders. The cows come down each day to be milked near the refuge, where butter, tomme, sérac, Abondance cheese and, depending on the year, raclette are made on site. These products are also available to buy here – the perfect opportunity to take home a little taste of the mountains! A few more steps and the Véran refuge comes into view, nestled in a beautiful mountain setting. Here, the forest finally gives way to open mountain pastures and the spectacular Véran valley, dominated by the cliffs of Croix de Fer. Staffed during the summer season, the refuge makes a pleasant stop for hikers wishing to enjoy this beautiful mountain environment for a little longer, or even spend a night at altitude. For those wishing to extend their hike, several routes also start from the Véran mountain pastures, including the Tête de Lassy and, for experienced hikers, the Cheminée de Monthieu and Tête du Colonney.

Refuge non gardé. Réservations et clefs auprès de M. Michel Coudray au 06 88 63 15 28. L'été le refuge est surveillé par des bénévoles. Seuls couchages et utilisation de la cuisine sont possibles. Pas de ravitaillement.

A small and pleasant peak above the Véran pasture, easily accessible from the refuge to all walkers. For those who love heights, there is a higher path via Le Lançoir, from the Cascade d'Arpenaz (waterfalls).From the Véran mountain pasture, the trail passes by the mountain hut before gently climbing toward the Tête de Lassy. It winds along the edge of the forest and then into its heart, on a steady and pleasant ascent. After about thirty minutes, the trail reaches this small peak perched at an elevation of 1,653 meters. Upon arrival, the view opens up, offering a magnificent panorama of the Sallanches Valley and the Aravis Range. A great way to gain some elevation without undertaking a long climb! The return trip follows the same route. For hikers looking for a more challenging alternative, a more exposed route via Le Lançoir also leads to the Véran mountain pasture from the area around the Arpenaz waterfall. Walking times are approximate and do not include rest breaks. Hike safely! This description provides a general guide but is not a substitute for a 1:25,000 hiking map or other guidebooks available at your local tourist office! In Sallanches, our Office of Guides & Tour Leaders also offers a wide range of guided outings led by mountain professionals who provide comprehensive expertise on the alpine environment and nature—be sure to check it out! No matter which hike you choose, check the weather forecast before setting out. Be sure to pack cereal bars, plenty of water, sunglasses, sunscreen, a small first-aid kit, and clothing appropriate for your outing based on the season and the forecast in your backpack.

A beautiful peak on the Alpage de Véran route, combining forest paths and clearings. A simple hike at the beginning, but steeper towards the top, which is reached via the highest ridge.