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Pissieu Waterfall
Description
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.
The waterfall is accessible all year round. The site is particularly spectacular after heavy rains or when the snow melts.
The waterfall is accessible from several starting points. From the nearest parking lot (Pissieu Waterfall parking lot), allow a 30-minute walk to the waterfall (and the same to return).
Technical Information
Altimetric profile
Additional information
Price(s)
Free of charge.
Updated by
Grand Chambéry Alpes Tourisme - 13/02/2026
www.chamberymontagnes.com
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Open period
All year round daily.
Contact
Phone : 04 79 54 84 28
Email : accueil.bauges@chamberymontagnes.com
Website : https://geoparc.parcdesbauges.com/geosite/source-et-cascade-du-pissieu-2/
Tips
Park at the Outdoor Activities Centre in Lescheraines and make your way up to the waterfall via the lakes and pathways alongside the Chéran river (1 hour return). Why not get a copy of the Information Sheet entitled "la promenade dont vous etes le heros" (The Walk of the Hero) from the Cœur des Bauges Tourist Information Office so that the whole family can visit the site from a whole new perspective! You can also make your way up to the waterfall from the village centre in Le Châtelard by crossing over the Chéran river at the ford by the old 'Picot' bridge (warning: only use the ford when the river water level is low). You can continue the walk by following the source of the waterfall up the 'Savoyarde' discovery walk via Le Villaret, Rossillon and Les Iles du Chéran Don't miss the other geosites to discover such as the 'Tannes et Glacières' trail and the Tanne du Névé / Porte Cochère caving hike. More information on hiking routes can be found in the guidebook section
Animals
Yes
Data author
