Les Cyclamens: Adventure Awaits in Le Chatelard

Immerse yourself in history and learn how to master the mountain. Discover the Nant des Granges site guided by the wooden statues and through a legend, as well as the techniques for blocking landslides. The route follows 2 distinct loops: Les Garins loop walk (upper loop): Introduction "The Legend of the Masters of Mont Déserté". Set off to meet 5 great Masters, learn how to master the mountain on this initiatory trail. A playbook is available free of charge at the Coeur des Bauges Tourist Office and at the Maison du Parc. Start: Garins car park - 2 hrs walk - 200 m difference in height. Les Granges loop walk (lower loop): Epilologue "The Mountain is under control!". Discover the modern techniques for blocking landslides and the history of them since 1931 by means of the information boards of this site. Start: tennis courts' car park - 45 minutes' walk - 60 m difference in height. The two loop walks can be done from the Garins car park via an itinerary that links them of 1.5 km (4 hr 15 mins for the return trip and 530 m difference in height).

From boulder to boulder, on this beautiful rocky ridge, reach Mount Trelod summit : a perfect viewpoint over the highest peaks of the Bauges, the surrounding villages and valleys of the massif. Starting point : Garins hamlet 1/ Take the track (white and red markings, GR96) rising through the meadows, passing by two stone chalets (refuge). 2/ After 3 switchbacks, the track follows the mountain side towards Plane pass ("col du Plane"). Leave the track to follow a steep trail on the right. 3/ Higher up, turn left. You will reach the ridge, first in the forest and then between easy to climb boulders. From there, you will tower Doucy valley and its villages, at the foot of the imposing mount Trélod. 4/ After a first "false-summit" (1645m), follow the ridge up to the actual summit (1672m). 5/ Retrace your steps until the forestry road, then take the trail going down directly towards Garins refuge.

Introduce your children to a geosite? In other words, get your feet wet at the Pissieu waterfall! It's a great way to learn while having fun, and enjoy the coolness of the site... At the start, we calmly take the wide track on the edge of the forest, accompanied by the song of the stream. After a while, we hear a noise. It's just a dull rumble in the distance. Growing louder. Then it's the fresh spray on our faces that lets us know it's just around the corner. And there it is, the cascade du Pissieu! All the water from the Margeriaz plateau rushes here through a gigantic underground network (79km known, including the tanne du Cochon, which descends 825 metres into the mountain!) and rushes over the rocks, precipitating the droplets into a cold, noisy cloud. A refreshing sight, especially on a day after heavy rain. What fun it is to get as close to the waterfall as possible, hopping from rock to rock. As you gain height, the route invites you under the protective shade of the trees. Alternating between balconies, it offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. The return journey is also cool, to the Châtelard lake. Why not finish the hike with a dip?

Introduce your children to a geosite? In other words, get your feet wet at the Pissieu waterfall! It's a great way to learn while having fun, and enjoy the coolness of the site... At the start, we calmly take the wide track on the edge of the forest, accompanied by the song of the brook. After a while, we hear a noise. It's just a dull rumble in the distance. Growing louder. Then it's the fresh spray on our faces that lets us know it's just around the corner. And there it is, the cascade du Pissieu! All the water from the Margeriaz plateau rushes here through a gigantic underground network (79km known, including the tanne du Cochon, which descends 825 metres into the mountain!) and rushes over the rocks, precipitating the droplets into a cold, noisy cloud. A refreshing sight, especially on a day after heavy rain. What fun it is to get as close to the waterfall as possible, hopping from rock to rock. As you gain height, the route invites you under the protective shade of the trees. Alternating between balconies, it offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. The return journey is also cool, to the Châtelard lake. Why not finish the hike with a dip?

An easy and refreshing walk to the superb waterfall and its source. The site is accessible all year round and is particularly spectacular after periods of heavy rain or melting snow. Pissieu Waterfall forms just downstream from a source into which most of the rainwater and snow-melt drains into off the Margériaz Plateau. It is created from a karst resurgence of water from the so-called "Vauclusian source"; i.e. the largest source of resurgence water in the whole of France. Beneath the entrance to the source, a submerged underground network plummets to a depth of 50 metres before making its way back up towards the Margériaz Plateau. Up to now, 79km of underground networks have been identified under the Margériaz Plateau, including the 'Tanne du Cochon' network, which has an elevation difference of 825 metres between its starting point on the plateau and its resurgence at Le Pissieu. You can get to the waterfall either via the car park by the 'Pont sur le Nant d'Aillon' (bridge over the Nant d'Aillon river) on the road between the villages of Attilly and Le Villaret Rouge, via the swimming lake in Le Châtelard or via Les Iles du Chéran Outdoor Activities Centre car park. The itinerary passes close to the "Chèvrerie des Tannes et Glacières", a goat farm producing mohair.

Discover the Chéran and its lakes, which has been awarded the "Wild River Site" label. This walk immerses you in a calm and rejuvenating atmosphere. Take a stroll to the Picot suspension footbridge for a view of the river. Two departures are available: from the La Motte en Bauges lake, or from the Pissieu parking lot in Le Châtelard. This easy walk has very little difference in altitude, making it accessible to all. From the parking lot in La Motte-en-Bauges, walk along the lake, then through the forest and a large meadow to the Picot farms. The suspended footbridge over the Chéran offers a superb view of the river, then after crossing the Nant d'Aillon, turn right to the Châtelard parking lot. Make a U-turn here, or continue to the Lescheraines leisure park via the Promenade confort des Iles du Chéran.

Set out on the trail of the oldest inhabitant of the Bauges mountain range. Equipped with your audio book, glean precious clues from the people you meet along the way and discover the unusual history of the Massif des Bauges and its Géopark. Two routes to choose from, two levels of difficulty: PROMENADE CONFORT departing from the Lescheraines leisure park. Accessible to all, including families with baby carriages, senior citizens and accompanied wheelchair users. . Running time: 1h to 1h30 . Height difference: 15 m PROMENADE LIBERTE departing from the Pissieu parking lot . Time: 2h30 . Difference in altitude: 175 m

Pleasant and sporty mountain bike route linking the leisure base of the Chéran islands (Lescheraines) to the Pissieu waterfall.

From the leisure center, this comfortable walk along the Chéran river takes you to three bodies of water in a green setting. This friendly space on the banks of the Chéran, in the heart of a leisure park, will delight families. This outing can also be used for swimming; a variety of tourist services are on offer, including restaurants, tobogganing and fishing. In addition to this comfortable walk, the itinerary can take you as far as the Pissieu waterfall.

It's a bit hot today. Where else could we take a nice, cool walk with the kids? Here's a good idea: let's discover the islands of the Chéran! The walk starts at the Lescheraines leisure center, on a lovely, well-maintained lake. It makes you want to go for a swim, but first let's discover the islands of the Chéran! The path takes us away from the hustle and bustle of the beach. We can now hear the murmur of the Chéran, a "wild river", which accompanies us along the way and offers us the freshness of its waters from the heights of the Bauges. At the edge of the second, slightly quieter lake, a fisherman waits patiently for a fish to take his bait. Then the trail continues to another, wilder lake. So serene. The mountains are reflected on its surface, and you can even see a small island in the middle. It's great to be able to walk around it. At the edge of the lake, little wooden pontoons invite us to look at the bottom of the water without getting our feet wet... And it's a good opportunity to stop for a snack in the shade of the trees. And it's already time to turn back. In just a few steps, we're at the beach for a well-deserved swim!

Lake Châtelard is located in the heart of Bauges. Surrounded on one side by the forest and on the other by Chéran, you can revitalize in this timeless, peaceful, natural setting. Lake Châtelard is populated mainly by brown trout. A special regulation has been set up for fishing : no-kill for trout only. Fishing is allowed with 1 hook (single, double or triple) without a barb. Fly fishermen, your best time is in the early morning. Around 11 am, the wind rises and the water becomes unpredictable.

Family campsite by the lake, forest and river. Located on the leisure center and 1 km from the village. Rental of residential plots for mobile homes.

Tome des Bauges, Le Margériaz gruyere cheese, butter, cream... New: the cooperative offers online sales. To order their products and give your tastebuds a treat, access their website. Lescheraines dairy cooperative collects 7,000 litres of milk per day. Half of this milk is used to make the gruyere cheese called “Le Margériaz” and the rest is for Tome des Bauges cheese. Tome des Bauges cheese, which is very different from the Tomme de Savoie cheese, is the 39th cheese made with cows’ milk that has received the registered trademark of A.O.P. (Controlled Designation of Origin). Group tours are organised: you can see cheese being made and the cheese maturing cellars.

In Arith, at the bottom of the Bange mountain, in the heart of the regional natural park Massif des Bauges, the country inn La Frutière d'Arith welcomes you all year round amid exceptionnal surroundings.

La Ferme de la Mense is located in the La Mense housing estate, 500 m from the slopes of the Aillons-Margériaz 1000 ski area and 11 km from the Aillons-Margériaz 1400 ski area. The building faces a sunny south-facing slope in the heart of the mountain. Accommodation in rooms for 2 to 6 people. - Tailor-made stays, adapted to your educational objectives (schools, colleges, associations, etc.). - Possibility of self-catering for family reunions or gatherings of friends. - Seminars, weddings, birthdays... - Groups or mini groups. Full board, half board, B&B and self-catering available. Capacity of 106 people. 26 bedrooms PMR area (for people with reduced mobility), with 3 bedrooms (one of which is a double) and an adapted bathroom. National Education - Youth and Sports and PMI accreditation

The new address for a relaxing getaway in the unspoilt and natural environment of the Massif des Bauges. An elegant house with an intimate atmosphere, gourmet restaurant, wellness area and landscaped garden. Relaxation and discovery guaranteed.

Sports and souvenir shop - Ski, snowboard hire and repair / via ferrata equipment hire, baby carriers - Rental of electric scooters, - Sports clothes and equipment, accessories, footwear - Souvenirs - Internet access and Wifi Orange - Newspapers - Fresh bread / croissant delivery

From tree to tree, discover four tree climbing course followed by a cascade of zip lines. The course includes : - ziplines - tree climabing with different level courses - 1 small base jump (secure) Equipment provided : - Helmet - Harness - Intelligent lanyards - Pulley

"Les Nivéoles is located at an altitude of 1000m, in the heart of the PNR des Bauges. The authenticity of the village provides an ideal setting for outdoor activities and relaxation. The center welcomes all types of groups: seminars, adults, sports enthusiasts, schoolchildren... The authenticity of the village of Aillon-le-Jeune invites you to discover a warm and welcoming mountain environment. Accommodation is available in separate or connecting rooms. Two rooms at the center can accommodate people with reduced mobility. Meals are served in the dining room, or packed lunches can be ordered in advance. For relaxation, you have free access to the center's library, bar/lounge with fireplace and petanque court. Just a stone's throw away, 4 activity rooms and an auditorium and cinema (150 seats) are available on reservation. In winter, the Aillons-Margériaz resort offers a wide range of winter sports. In summer, the local aquatic complex is just 20 m away, and the nearby mountains offer a wide range of sporting activities (canirando, tyrolean traverse, climbing, canyoning, etc.) and leisure activities (Pays suspendu des Géants, big air bag in a buoy, farm visits, etc.). Les Nivéoles has ample free parking.

This Logis de France hotel located south of Lake Annecy has a heated pool and is in a park with views of the Bauges and Aravis mountains. Take advantage of the calm and peaceful setting near the bike path and the paragliding landing area. The hotel has a restaurant. Elevator, WiFi, garage, parking lot, and bicycles available for free ensure a fun and pleasant stay. Enjoy several activities: cycling, archery, pétanque, hiking, paragliding, etc. Direct bus service to and from the train stations in Annecy and Albertville.

On the edge of the Chéran, these relatively stable stony banks are not simply outcrops: they reveal the glacial past of the Bauges, and have a lot to teach us. During the Ice Ages, when the bottoms of the valleys were covered in ice, deposits from the eroded mountain became blocked by the glacier, which prevented them from being carried downstream. Local glaciers or ice tongues overflowing from the Cols des Bauges caused the formation of these fluvio-glacial terraces to stack on top of each other, and we can see the traces of the heights of these glaciers. When the glaciers melted, the rivers easily carved through these deposits as they meandered through the valley. Often covered in vegetation, the structure of these terraces is clearly visible - the laminations and direction of the stone allow us to read the meaning of the paleo-currents. This beautiful Terrasse des Bauges is located at the start of the Balade du Pissieu, on the right bank of the Nant d'Aillon. Parking at the bridge over the Nant d'Aillon on the road linking Attilly to Villaret Rouge, the Châtelard lake or the car park at the Iles du Chéran leisure centre.

Pissieu waterfall forms just downstream from a source into which most of the rainwater and snow-melt drains into off the Margériaz Plateau. It is created from a karst resurgence of water from the so-called "Vauclusian source"; Beneath the entrance to the source, a submerged underground network plummets to a depth of 50 metres before making its way back up towards the Margériaz Plateau. Up to now, 79km of underground networks have been identified under the Margériaz Plateau, including the 'Tanne du Cochon' network, which has an elevation difference of 825 metres between its starting point on the plateau and its resurgence at Le Pissieu. You can get to the waterfall either via the car park by the 'Pont sur le Nant d'Aillon' (bridge over the Nant d'Aillon river) on the road between the villages of Attilly and Le Villaret Rouge, via the swimming lake in Le Châtelard or via Les Iles du Chéran Outdoor Activities Centre car park. About 2h from Les Iles du Chéran Outdoor Activities Centre car park.

Enjoy the facilities of the Leisure Centre to spend a relaxing day with family or friends. Bathing is accessible to people with reduced mobility in adapted wheelchairs under supervision.

This syncline is one of the central points in the valley, whether it is seen from below from Ecole or the Vallée de Sainte Reine in the south, or from the banks of the Lac d'Annecy in the north. Spectacular hikes are possible on the steep slopes. Le Trélod-Charbon is one of the most emblematic perched synclines in the Massif des Bauges, caused by a fold of a thick limestone layer during the formation of the Alps, approximately 20 million years ago. Raised upwards and flanked by fault lines, is represents a well-preserved example of the sedimentary rock folds in the region. Unusually, its interior contains a series of preserved nummulites (marine sediments from the Eocene period, including an outstanding limestone layer), well-marked by a little rocky ledge. Access via Bellecombe-en-Bauges and the Reposoir et les Ecuries-devant carpark, then the pass under la Dent des Portes, to reach Trélod. Set off from Doussard (Saury) or Bellecombe-en-Bauges via the Col de Bornette to reach the Charbon via the chalet de la Combe.

Commonly known as the 'Cathédrale des Bauges', this parish church was built in 1867, thanks to support from Napoleon III in response to a population surge. 13m high and sitting atop a sloping ledge, this church can be seen from the Col du Frêne. Its Basilica-esque layout, erected by the Revel diocesan, is unique in the Massif des Bauges. On the eastern side, two Medieval capitals come from the former church, now destroyed. Inside, the main alter, made of white marble with columns of red and green marble, rests upon a black marble base. The Autel de la Vierge, also made of white marble, is decorated with a high relief of the Holy Family.

The Chapelle de la Sainte Fontaine was built in 1839 on the site of a former priory, which was founded and inhabited by the Benedictine monks from the year 1050 until the French Revolution. Until the beginning of the 18th century, the Benedictine monks owned the second-richest estate in the Bauges, after the Chartreux d'Aillons. Located in the heart of the Réserve de Chasse et de Faune Sauvage des Bauges, the chapel contains the remains of the Pères de Bellevaux and is a pilgrimage destination on the Monday of Pentecost. There is a signposted nature trail from the Maison Faune-Flore. Take the 'Vallon de Balleveaux' path to learn more about the secrets of the wildlife, plants, activities and agriculture. Accompanying guide available from Tourist Office (€2.30).

Explore an underground world, in an secure environment at your own pace. Ladders, hand-holds and corridors provide access to a series of small caves and narrow, twisting passageways, creating a real feeling of exploration. Previously more active and covered in a much thicker layer of limestone, the cave is one of the openings to a huge underground network supplying the Cascade du Pissieu, in Chatelard. Only a few hundred metres are suitable for families - the rest is for experts only. The cave can be accessed through the porte cochère, along a secure path with ladders and fixed metal handles. A full loop (45 mins) will take you along the bottom of the well of Tanne du Névé. Information panels are dotted along the walk, providing more information on the different karst formations you will see. Access via the Route d'Accès at the Margeriaz resort, with parking at one of the final bends. Next, follow the forest track for a few hundred metres, until you reach the 'Place à Baban'. An information panel will tell you which route to follow, from which it is only a 15-20 minute ascent to the start of the Spéléorando.

Chapelle de la Correrie de l'Ancienne Chartreuse (Aillon-Station)

This 5205-hectare Reserve Nationale de Chasse enjoys international acclaim thanks to its chamois goats, an iconic species in the area.

A suspended metal bridge, built in 1887 by the engineer Baudin. 64 m long, situated 96 m above the Chéran, it links Cusy to Gruffy, and is listed as a heritage site. A plunging view over the chaos of the Chéran. Hike departure point.

At the foot of the Bauges reserve, in the heart of the massif, panoramic terrace with breathtaking views of the mountains. In this setting, we offer you simple, balanced and colorful French cuisine cooked by a professional.

Bar-restaurant offering mainly Savoyard specialties and in summer, salads, omelettes, daily specials, diots (local sausage cooked in a white wine sauce). Possibility of buffet and takeaway on order.

Discover the Resto des Alpes, an experience to share in a cozy and green setting offering a breathtaking view of the fairways at Golf des Alpes. Our gourmet cuisine celebrates seasonal products. Ideally located at the foot of the mountains and just 5 minutes from Lake Annecy, our terrace offers a breathtaking view on our golf course. Join us for an unforgettable gourmet moment in the heart of the Alps for an exceptional culinary experience.

A renovated farm between Lake Annecy and the Bauges Mountains. Enjoy a patio with incredible panoramic views, 2 dining rooms and refined cuisine. The lodge offers refined regional and traditional cuisine prepared personally by your host. Foie gras and other homemade patés, frog legs and a wide variety of desserts as a bonus. At the restaurant, enjoy 3 set menus made with seasonal products. Please feel free to contact us to organise a family or professional celebration: we have a wide variety of proposals to offer.

Bar/Restaurant at the foot of the pistes at La Sambuy ski resort, in La Remontée you find a friendly atmosphere and low prices!

A genuine mountain restaurant offering traditional and local cuisine and much more! Fresh seasonal produce and other products. At L'Avalanche, stop for a quick break and enjoy the slope-side views! Enjoy the vast outdoor patio and warm indoor dining room at the foot of the La Sambuy ski resort. Spend time around the wood stove in a warm and friendly atmosphere, or outside on the patio with fantastic panoramic views and discover our delicious local cuisine. Enjoy any of our delightful meals or a cheese speciality made with authentic farmhouse cheese. Thanks to the never-ending passion of local farmers working the soil in a well-preserved all-natural environment, we are lucky to work with high-quality authentic local produce in our dishes in order to delight your taste buds. In an ideal location at the foot of the La Sambuy ski resort, facing the chairlift and the year round toboggan, enjoy this beautiful mountain setting for a lovely gourmet break. Upon request, we can organise any event or private evening party, as well as a fun-filled activity before your meal (snowshoeing, a day mountain biking, ski touring...). Just contact us!

At the top of the La Sambuy ski area, enjoy tasty diot sausages, hot and cold drinks, cheeses, and local products. 100% made in Là Haut! Deck with 360° panoramic views of Lake Annecy, Mont Blanc, music, a great atmosphere... A restauration point, also used as a pop-up for Opinel.

In the heart of the Semonz Alpine pastures, mountain gastronomy in a former Alpine pasture chalet at 1540m. Accessible on foot only, 30 minutes from the car park on the Semnoz plateau. Reservation advisable. Sleeps 25 (dormitory and bedrooms). 1/2 board available.

On the panoramic terrace or in one of the restaurant's two dining rooms, Les Rochers Blancs serves snacks and meals and also caters for weddings. The menu includes traditional dishes and Savoie specialities such as fondue, tartiflette and gratins. For a quiet mountain break..A glass of Savoyard wine, a snack, a cep mushroom fondue, a peaceful night, a seminar out of town, a birthday, a wedding, a Karaoke evening, a tea dance to the sound of the fairground organ…If you’ve dreamed of it, Les Rochers Blancs will make it come true.

Craving a Savoyard burger? Give the concept a try at Le Chalet du Lac Burger, where different kinds of cheese complete this American sandwich: raclette, goat cheese or the more classical cheddar...

Accessible by car (5mn on foot from the car park).

Family campsite by the lake, forest and river. Located on the leisure center and 1 km from the village. Rental of residential plots for mobile homes.

Rest area for motorhome.

"Nature" gîte at the regional natural park of Les Bauges, near the Reserve and the highest peaks of the massif. Personalized welcome by a loving couple sharing their attachment to the Bauges mountains, their taste for hiking, botany, woodworking…

Group accommodation for family or friends. Albatros cottage is located in the heart of the Massif des Bauges PNR, at the end of a village, at 850m above sea level, at the start of hiking trails. Possibility to book to organize private parties. As for accommodation, the Albatros cottage offers 1 bedroom for 2 people, 1 bedroom for 4 people, 1 large dormitory divided into 3 parts and 1 small reception for 5 people.

In Arith, at the bottom of the Bange mountain, in the heart of the regional natural park Massif des Bauges, the country inn La Frutière d'Arith welcomes you all year round amid exceptionnal surroundings.

Stopover and holiday gite for 15 people. Cozy cottage between mountain pastures and Lake Annecy The lodging of stage allows you different options of hikes: star, circuit 3 or 5 days, snowshoeing, accompanied by a donkey, camper, biker, climbing nearby. 3 Dormitories: with shared toilets, small equipped kitchen, private parking, petanque, barbecue, picnic tables. Catering: 20 seats maximum, by reservation , open only in the off-season on Wednesday noon, and from Friday noon to Sunday evening .

Nature lovers fall for the charm of an old Bauges farmhouse towering over Lake Annecy in the heart of the Massif des Bauges Geopark. Since 28 years, La Biolette Gîte is open all year round for holidays with family and friends in an old farmhouse. The house has a cosy dining room and 6 bedrooms (2-5 beds per room, sleeps 19) including 3 with ensuite bathrooms. Kitchen access and bed linen rental. La Biolette also has a training and meeting room. Its nature awareness policy, particularly in terms of trees, has seen the gîte receive the "Valeurs Parc naturel régional" award. The perfect place to explore Les Bauges Geopark’s heritage. La Biolette is registered in the directory of the Departmental Directorate of Social Cohesion for welcoming 17 minors.

In the Bauges Mountains, at 1572 meters elevation, this mountain hut-farm with spectacular views of Mont Blanc welcomes you to sleep near the goats and sheep. Taste the organic cheeses made on site by Marie and Stéphane. Meals made with produce from our farm. Savoyard style cuisine: soup, pork cuts, potato fritters (reservation required and only for lunch), dessert of the day. Hut on the Lake Annecy GRP through-hike trail. Summits: Pointe de Banc Plat, Mont Trélod. Day hikes: Croix du Roy, Pointe de Banc Plat, La Combe. Multi-day hikes: Circumnavigate Dent des Portes Peak starting in Bellecombe en Bauges with a night stay in the La Combe hut. Getting here: from Lathuile (Saury), from Doussard via Combe d'Ire, from Bellecombe en Bauges (Le Reposoir). Getting here from Chevaline, parking lot (follow signs to Trou de l'Enfer Falls). In winter only: unstaffed, contact Lathuile city hall for details.

Near the emblematic site of La Tourbière des Creusates, surrounded by nature, this alpine chalet welcomes you for a warm moment with family or friends.