L'Aiguille verte and Le Lac de Lessy

Hard
5h45min
13km
Loop
+842m
-842m
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Description

Starting from Le Grand-Bornand Chinaillon, a 2.5 hour loop during which 11 interpretive signs explain the different facets of the mountain environment: flora, fauna, habitat, geology, ...

Beware of storms on the ridge.
Alternative route possible to complete a loop with a return via the chalets of Mayse, Le Planay and the old village (elevation gain 1,100 m and 6½ hours).

Lake Lessy is part of the Natura 2000 programme, which aims to protect remarkable environments.
In terms of plant life, the lake is home to a very large population of alpine pondweed and a smaller population of thorny buttercup. In terms of amphibians, the lake has a colony of Alpine newts.
In this context, swimming is strictly prohibited.
The following are also strictly prohibited:

  • Camping (by municipal ordinance throughout the entire municipality of Glières Val de Borne).
  • Campfires and outdoor fires, the use of stoves and barbecues.
  • Drones.
  • Slacklines.

Fishing is permitted: 1 catch per day per fisherman, single barbless hook, natural bait or fly only. River permits are available for purchase at the Grand-Bornand Tourist Office.

Marking

Map references

Map IGN Top 25 n°3430 ET La Clusaz Grand-Bornand

Amenities

Guided steps

Start at the Chinaillon Tourist Office, head towards Samance by walking up the high street and then along the Route de Samance. At the first junction, continue straight on until you reach the hairpin bend where the nature trail begins; follow this trail to Sur la Queblerie. From there, continue towards the Samance ponds. Continue towards Lac de Lessy. Climb up to Sur le Freu and reach Domingit, then the summit of the Aiguille Verte by following the ridge. Return to Domingit, cross over to Sous le Buclon and descend to Lac de Lessy, skirting the lake on the right. Head back up the track towards the Col de la Forclaz, then follow the Chinaillon route via Chalets de Mayse. Descend to Chalets de Mayse and turn left to climb up to Planay. From there, descend to La Culaz, then La Bouvardière, and follow the track back to the Chinaillon.

Address
Office de tourisme du Chinaillon, Le Grand-Bornand Chinaillon, 74450, Le Grand-Bornand
Opening
From 15/06 to 15/11 daily. From spring to autumn, depending on snow and weather conditions. Inquire about conditions before heading out. You are responsible for your own safety. Subject to favorable weather.

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Address
Office de tourisme du Chinaillon, Le Grand-Bornand Chinaillon, 74450, Le Grand-Bornand
Opening
From 15/06 to 15/11 daily. From spring to autumn, depending on snow and weather conditions. Inquire about conditions before heading out. You are responsible for your own safety. Subject to favorable weather.