As winter loosens its grip, Samoëns emerges from its chilly slumber, offering a fresh perspective for outdoor enthusiasts. In this post, we’ll guide you through a curated selection of 7 trails that capture the essence of the season.
From leisurely strolls along flower-lined paths to more challenging routes revealing panoramic mountain vistas, these hikes showcase the natural beauty that blossoms around this idyllic alpine location during the spring months. Plus, the Grand Massif region is home to some great gentle hikes which are ideal for families of novice hikers. So lace up your hiking boots and join us as we navigate through the rejuvenating landscapes of Samoëns!
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The top spring hikes around Samoëns
1. From Samoëns to Verchaix
Distance: 9.5km
Duration: 3h 30m
Elevation gain: 110m
Set off and discover the beauty of the foothills in springtime on this family-friendly walk, accessible to all from May onwards. You will depart from the charming hamlet of Bérouze, crowned with its beautiful castle, and you will pass through several authentic Haute-Savoie hamlets. The route winds through several Alpine forests.
Then it’s back towards Samoëns along the Giffre river, which attracts water sports lovers from spring onwards. You can take a breather at the Blue Lake in Morillon, or the Lacs aux Dames outdoor activity centre.
2. Le Bérouze-Mathonex-Vigny
Distance: 7km
Duration: 3h
Elevation gain: 300m
Littered with churches, chapels and ancient chalets, this trail will allow you to discover life in the Samoëns Valley and all its traditions. You will be led from hamlet to hamlet along ancient country roads.
To find out even more about Haute-Savoie traditions, combine your hike with a visit to the Clos Parchet eco farm and folk museum. This traditional farm, built in 1815, has a large collection of everyday objects from throughout its history, providing a fascinating insight into the region’s rural past.
Late springtime is the best time to make the most of this trail, from June onwards.
3. The village of Vallon and the Giffre dikes
Distance: 6.6km
Duration: 1.5h
Elevation gain: 17m
This short walk is suitable for all the family and is a great excuse to stretch your legs while exploring the beauty of the Samoëns region. A mix of nature and culture, this route takes you along the Giffre river before you pass through the 2 sections of the village of Vallon (Vallon d’en Bas and Vallon d’en Haut).
You will explore a charming valley, carpeted in flowers of all colours in springtime, with the Criou and Commune mountains as a backdrop. While you’re passing through the hamlets, don’t forget to stop and admire the fountain that dates back to 1873, and the chapel, built in 1636.
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4. Lacs aux Dames to Lac Bleu
Distance: 7.1km
Duration: 1.5h
Elevation gain: 24m
The banks of the Giffre between Samoëns and Morillon have been beautifully landscaped, allowing you to enjoy this delightful walk. A wide, flat path, under the pleasant shade of a forest of beech and spruce trees, leads from the Lac aux Dames to the Blue Lake in Morillon, with the imposing silhouette of the Haut-Giffre mountains in the background.
Open from May onwards, it is the most popular route in the region and attracts many walkers from both resorts. The best time to enjoy the walk is during the week, to avoid the crowds. Don’t hesitate to take a dip at the Lacs aux Dames outdoor activity centre (remember no dogs are permitted in the water).
5. Bostan and Golese Refuges
Distance: 9.3km
Duration: 4h 10m
Elevation gain: 727m
Between forests and mountain pastures, this well-marked trail leads to 2 mountain refuges, nestling at the foot of the Pointe de Tuets and the Dents Blanches, overlooking Samoëns. You’ll be surrounded from start to finish by the spectacular scenery of the Giffre mountain range, including some incredible rock formations just before the Col de Golèse.
The recommended route is counterclockwise, starting with a fairly steep ascent through the Bostan forest. Good physical fitness and sturdy footwear are essential.
Dogs are permitted on this route, provided they are kept on a lead.
6. Léledian Bridge – Lake Gers
Distance: 13.5km
Duration: 4h 10m
Elevation gain: 512m
Starting from the Lédedian bridge, 7km from Samoëns, this mainly wooded route leads to the seductive Lac de Gers, at an altitude of 1,537m. A refuge on the edge of the lake, surrounded by mountain pastures, provides refreshment and food.
This is a pleasant hike with no particular difficulties, immersing the whole family in tranquillity and greenery. The return journey takes the same route, along the foothills of the Pointe du Trapechet.
7. Samoëns 1600 – Chariande
Distance: 4.8km
Duration: 2h
Elevation gain: 321m
Discover the Samoëns 1600 ski area on this short loop towards the Tête du Pré des Saix. On the way, you’ll pass the Gouilles Rouges lake, ideal for a picnic break.
The climb is fairly steep and not suitable for all fitness levels, especially as the path is not shaded. It’s a good idea to keep well hydrated and to hike clockwise to avoid descending along a rocky path.
If you still have time and energy, you can extend your excursion to the Col des Saix, which offers an even more breathtaking panorama.
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