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Hiking : Towards the Refuge de Loriaz
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Description
At an altitude of 2020m, this former mountain pasture in the heart of the Aiguilles Rouges massif offers exceptional panoramic views of the famous Aiguille Verte and the Mont-Blanc massif.
Overlooking the Vallorcine valley, you'll climb Montagne de Loriaz, in the foothills of the Vallon du Vieux Emosson (archaeological site).
The first part of the ascent takes place in the shade of the Vallorcine state forest, with some fine views between the spruce trees of the peaks around the Glacier d'Argentière (l'Aiguille Verte, les Drus and l'Aiguille du Chardonnet).
As you climb, the landscape gradually opens up. As you turn around, contemplate the northern part of the Mont Blanc Massif between the Glacier du Tour and the Glacier d'Argentière.
You'll soon reach the Chalets de Loriaz. These alpine chalets, recognizable by their alignment, bear witness to the area's former pastoral activity.
Since 1976, the mountain pasture has been used as a guarded refuge, so don't hesitate to take the time for a well-deserved gourmet break before beginning the descent to the Hameau de Couteray, your starting point.
Technical Information
Altimetric profile
Starting point
Points of interest
Date and time
- From 15/05/2026 to 15/10/2026
Additional information
Open period
From 15/05 to 15/10.
Subject to favorable snow and weather conditions.
Updated by
Conseil Départemental de la Haute-Savoie - 24/11/2025
www.hautesavoiexperience.fr
Report a problem
Environments
Mountain view
Mountain location
Panoramic view
Contact
Phone : 04 50 53 00 24
Email : info@chamonix.com
Website : https://www.chamonix.com
Type of land
Rock
Stone
Ground
Not suitable for strollers
Location complements
Access (by car): From Chamonix, follow signs for Vallorcine.
Park in the Couteray parking lot, at the start of the route.
Topo guides and map references
Map references :
TOP 25 IGN 3630 OT - CHAMONIX - MONT-BLANC
Reception complements
Whatever your hike, remember to pack cereal bars, plenty of water, sunglasses, sunscreen, a small first-aid kit, and clothing appropriate to the season and weather forecast.
Guidebook with maps/step-by-step
1/ From the Couteray parking lot, cross the hamlet to join the forest track a little further up. At the first bend to the left, leave the track to follow the path to the right, before rejoining it a little higher up. At the next bend to the left, leave the path to the right and continue along the track.
2/ After a few bends, at a left-hand bend, leave the track again and take the path continuing straight ahead. Shortly after passing over the Nant de Loriaz bridge, leave the path continuing straight ahead, and turn left towards Alpage de la Loriaz.
3/ Once you've reached the Chalets de la Loriaz, start your return by following the path downhill to the left towards Sizeray and Vallorcine. Leave the path leading down into the forest a little further down, and turn right to reach the intersection under the Alpage de Loriaz which you passed earlier. Then return to your starting point by the same route you took on the way up.
Animals
Yes. Dogs must be kept on a leash in the Loriaz mountain pasture.
Data author
