2-day hike on Charbon Mountain with overnight stay in a refuge

A 2-day getaway to one of the most beautiful summits in the Sources area of Lake Annecy. From the forest of Lathuile and back, climb to an altitude of over 1,500 metres for a superb view of the lake and surrounding countryside.

Designed for good walkers, this short 2-day itinerary takes you up the Charbon mountain to the summit of the northern end of the Trélod range.

Set within the Bauges National Hunting and Wildlife Reserve, this Natura 2000 listed area is home to a wide variety of wildlife, and you may even come across the local chamois during your walk.

After an initial undergrowth section, the path becomes stony at the cliff below La Combe. Once over this cliff, you'll reach the Combe mountain pasture.

Take time out for a well-deserved gourmet break at the Refuge de la Combe, where the alpagistes welcome you for a tasting of organic goat's cheese.

If you're feeling more adventurous, you can take the short climb back up to the summit.

Once you've reached the Charbon shelter, you'll be very close to the Croix du Roy, the highest point of the itinerary, with its magnificent view over Lake Annecy.

Then it's back down to the refuge de la Combe for a meal and a unique night's sleep in the heart of the mountains.

The next day, we return by the same route.