Starting at Lake Montriond, this hike takes you to the Roc de Tavaneuse through forests and alpine meadows. It’s a varied route dotted with beautiful panoramic views of the Chablais peaks.
As you climb, the Pointe de Nantaux runs alongside the trail and seems to watch over the surrounding landscapes. As you gain elevation, Lake Montriond gradually comes into view below, dominated by its cliffs, while Avoriaz appears in the distance.
Past the Chalets de Lens, the trail continues toward the Col de Tavaneuse, a true vantage point overlooking the Chablais mountains. Lake Tavaneuse, the Cornettes de Bise, and Mont de Grange come together to form a magnificent panorama. From the Roc de Tavaneuse, the view extends even further to Lake Geneva and the Dent d’Oche. The Dents du Midi and Mont Blanc are also visible on clear days.
The trail is steep for most of the way.
Start at the Lac de Montriond parking lot.
1/ Walk up the road, then turn left onto the trail that climbs after the bus stop.
At the “Le Clou” sign, follow the directions for the Chalets de Lens.
2/ Further on, at the intersection, turn right, following the trail markers (yellow arrow on a green background).
3/ Later on the hike: turn left onto the steeply sloping trail. Follow the direction of the yellow arrow on a green background.
4/ At Les Vélas, continue straight ahead. The climb remains steep along a forest trail. Then it levels off and descends slightly as you exit the forest. The climb becomes fairly steep again afterward.
5/ You’ll arrive at an alpine pasture. Turn right and follow the trail markers (yellow arrow on a green background). Cross the pasture and go around the herd of cows if necessary.
This will take you to the Chalets de Lens.
6/ Cross through the Chalets de Lens (a hamlet with several alpine chalets) and continue along the trail to the Portes de Lens.
7/ At the Portes de Lens, turn right to ascend the trail toward the Col de Tavaneuse.
8/ At Col de Tavaneuse, enjoy the view of Lac de Tavaneuse, Cornettes de Bise, and Mont de Grange. Turn left toward Roc de Tavaneuse.
9/ Arrival at Roc de Tavaneuse. Return via the same route.