Lac du Charvin Itinerary

The GAEC des Cimes offers you a warm welcome throughout the summer, at the foot of Mont Charvin, 45 minutes from Thones. Would you like to try an alpine pasture meal, or a night in the refuge? It's all possible, and of course you're welcome.First and foremost, we're farmers, with cows and goats to make cheese: AOP Reblochon Fermier, AOP Chevrotin and PGI Savoie Tomme. Don't hesitate to stop by for a tasting at the chalet, to try our produce, for a snack or even a full-blown meal. Thursdays we offer a special welcome to show you our work and our environment. And if you dream of a night closer to the stars, you can sleep in the refuge next to our chalet and workshop. You can observe the various activities of the alpine pasture.

Lake Charvin is a natural high-altitude lake situated at an altitude of 2,000 metres, in a sensitive mountain environment. Its alpine flora, wetlands and the presence of remarkable animal species require special care.Nestled in a magnificent natural cirque at the foot of Mont Charvin, this exceptional site is subject to conservation measures designed to protect its natural treasures. To help preserve this natural site: - Stay on the marked paths. - Do not pick alpine flowers or plants. - Take all your rubbish away with you. - Keep your dog on a lead near herds. - Respect the peace and quiet of the wildlife. The walk passes through several mountain pastures that are still in use during the summer, offering the chance to discover mountain pastoralism and meet the herdsmen who produce local cheeses. Their work helps to maintain the landscape and preserve biodiversity. Please respect their work and the grazing areas by ensuring you close gates and fences properly after passing through. Pick up some delicious cheese from our mountains by stopping at one of the two mountain pastures on this route: - L’Aulp de Fier d’en Haut - L’Aulp de Fier d’en Bas Bonus tip: Once you reach Lac du Charvin, we recommend continuing on to the ridge of the Aravis range. From there, you’ll enjoy a magnificent panoramic view of Savoie and the Mont Blanc massif. Starting point: Park at the Sous l’Aiguille car park, following the hamlet of La Charmette from the village of Manigod. Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes round trip Elevation gain: 820m Starting altitude: 1,495 m Finishing altitude: 2,011 m Map reference: Tournette-Bornes Arav