Hiking: the Pointe de Saugeon

A superb hike through the Savoyard mountain pastures of the Vallée d'Aulps. The route, which is relatively easy, leads to a promontory offering, amongst other things, a stunning view of Lake Geneva.

The walk starts in Tréchauffé, on the hills above the village of La Forclaz. It follows a circular route through a mountain pasture dominated by a herd of goats. The atmosphere is peaceful and the views magnificent, despite the route being relatively easy.

Start from the Col de Tréchauffé, in the car park in front of La Chèvrerie.

1/ Follow the road uphill to the sign for “Chalets de Tréchauffé”. Take the path on the right towards the Col de l’Aiguille. The climb consists of hairpin bends and passes several junctions. If in doubt about which way to go, follow the yellow arrows on the rocks.

2/ The climb continues to the edge of the forest, alongside the mountain pasture. First in a straight line (with the pasture on your left), then in long hairpin bends through the pasture until you reach the Col de l’Aiguille.

3/ At the Col de l’Aiguille, take the path on the left towards the Belvédère de l’Aiguille.

4/ You have now reached the Pointe de Saugeon. It is from here that you’ll enjoy the finest view of the route, particularly over Lake Leman. Continue straight on to begin the descent (follow the direction of the yellow arrow on a green background).

5/ The descent follows a series of hairpin bends along a forest track before reaching the mountain pasture. Continue down to the Tréchauffé viewpoint.

6/ At the Tréchauffé viewpoint, cross the car park to reach the path leading down below. Follow the path to the Chalets de Tréchauffé.

7/ At the Chalets de Tréchauffé, turn left to join the road. Then follow the road to the car park.