This hike takes you to the ridge of the Montagne des Grandes Lanches. Passing through the Rochette mountain pastures, you'll reach the Lanches Noires ridge, with a geological curiosity to discover: Le Trou de la Chapelle.
From the village of Alex, just half an hour's drive from Annecy, the route begins along a forest track.
At the end of this winding climb, the undergrowth gives way to beautiful pastures. You'll then reach the Rochette mountain pasture, where you'll enjoy magnificent views of Lake Annecy, the Dents de Lanfons and the Pointe de Talamarche.
The climb continues to the Trou de la Chapelle. This imposing cavity crosses the Lanche Noire ridge, and is an access point linking the two slopes: La Rochette on one side, and Le Lindion on the other.
This geological curiosity is the high point of the itinerary, and its characteristic nave shape makes it look like a church (hence the name).
From 01/06 to 30/09.
Subject to favorable snow and weather conditions.
Conseil Départemental de la Haute-Savoie - 21/04/2026
hautesavoiemontblanc-tourisme.com/
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Mountain view
Mountain location
Phone : 04 50 02 00 26
Email : infos@thonescoeurdesvallees.com
Website : https://www.thonescoeurdesvallees.com
Not suitable for strollers
Access (by car): From Thônes, take the D909 towards Annecy then Alex. Turn left onto rue du Tilleul to reach the parking lot in front of the Alex church.
Map references :
TOP 25 IGN 3430 ET - LA CLUSAZ / LE GRAND-BORNAND
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.
1/ From the "Alex Village" post, head for "Le Trou de la Chapelle direct". Follow the signs for "Trou de la Chapelle", passing through "Les Devins" and "La Rochette Dessous".
2/ Once you've reached the Trou de la Chapelle, retrace your steps to the "Les Devins" signpost, following the same route as before. At "Les Devins", follow signs for "Alex Village par Sur le Bourg". Continue towards Alex Village, passing through "Le Grépon" and then "Sur le Bourg", before reaching your starting point.
Yes. Dogs must be kept on a leash in the presence of herds.