Dent de Lanfon
A challenging hike with a technical summit climb offering breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Annecy and the Alps.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Dent de Lanfon
Best Time
Best visibility and grip
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging hike with a technical summit climb offering breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Annecy and the Alps.
"Superb hike with an exceptional panorama at an altitude of over 1,700m."
🥾 Sturdy Boots are Key
Essential for the technical, rocky, and potentially slippery final ascent. Don't underestimate the terrain!
⚠️ Helmet Recommended
For the challenging sections involving scree and climbing, a helmet adds a crucial layer of safety.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Summit Panorama
Central Peak
Breathtaking 360-degree views of Lake Annecy and the surrounding Alps from over 1,700m.
Technical Ascent
Final approach to summit
A thrilling climb involving scree, handrails, and rock sections for experienced hikers.
Chamois Sightings
Near water points
Keep an eye out for wild chamois grazing in the scenic alpine meadows.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Technical Terrain Ahead
Best Footwear and Safety
Best Times
Insider Tips
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🥾 Sturdy Boots are Key
Essential for the technical, rocky, and potentially slippery final ascent. Don't underestimate the terrain!
⚠️ Helmet Recommended
For the challenging sections involving scree and climbing, a helmet adds a crucial layer of safety.
Tips and recommendations for my last day in Annecy and nearby region?
☀️ Check Weather First
Avoid this hike in wet conditions; slippery rocks and mud make it dangerous. Dry weather is crucial.
🐾 Pet-Friendly Trail
Dogs are allowed on this hike, but ensure they are well-behaved and can handle the challenging terrain.
Tips
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🥾 Sturdy Boots are Key
Essential for the technical, rocky, and potentially slippery final ascent. Don't underestimate the terrain!
⚠️ Helmet Recommended
For the challenging sections involving scree and climbing, a helmet adds a crucial layer of safety.
☀️ Check Weather First
Avoid this hike in wet conditions; slippery rocks and mud make it dangerous. Dry weather is crucial.
🐾 Pet-Friendly Trail
Dogs are allowed on this hike, but ensure they are well-behaved and can handle the challenging terrain.
📍 Start from Aulp
Consider starting your hike from the Aulp restaurant for a scenic and convenient access point.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Dent de Lanfon offers a superb, albeit challenging, hike with exceptional panoramic views of Lake Annecy. While the technical final ascent is thrilling for experienced hikers, it requires caution due to scree and climbing sections. Visitors appreciate the potential for wildlife sightings and the dramatic alpine scenery.
"Superb hike from Les Villards-Dessus to the northern and central peaks of the Dents de Lanfon, leading to an exceptional panorama at an altitude of over 1,700m.
Warning!
The magnificent view from the central peak is reached after a very technical climb through scree, handrails, rock sections, and some areas involving climbing at heights of 2-4m. Some sections can be truly dangerous if you don't take special care and attention during the ascent/descent.
Therefore, only attempt this route with full knowledge of the facts, absolutely avoid wet weather or after rain (slippery terrain and rocks), helmets are strongly recommended, and avoid climbing alone."
Clément Reynaud
"Very beautiful hike with several beautiful views of Lake Annecy. You can easily come across chamois near the water points.
Departure can be made from the Aulp restaurant.
Difficulty: medium+, with a fairly technical ending"
Alexandre Du Fraysseix
"A setting and a sublime panorama of Lake Annecy from this rocky bar more than 200 meters high, culminating at 1824 meters.
Whatever the starting point chosen, the hike that follows is in all cases magnificent despite the length and certain technical passages which require good dexterity.
This “Urgonian” limestone cliff is a spot for climbing enthusiasts to whom it offers a popular viewpoint over the lake."
Laugal Laugal
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common starting point is from Les Villards-Dessus, which is accessible by car. Some also start from the Aulp restaurant. Parking can be limited, especially during peak season.
Public transport options to the immediate trailhead are limited. Renting a car is often recommended for easier access to the starting points.
From Annecy, you'll typically drive towards the south of Lake Annecy, following signs for the villages near the mountain. The roads can be narrow and winding as you approach the trailhead.
Yes, there are parking areas at popular starting points like Les Villards-Dessus, but they can fill up quickly. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Absolutely! It's a popular day trip from Annecy, offering stunning views and a challenging hike. Allow a full day for the round trip and enjoying the summit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to hike Dent de Lanfon. It's a natural hiking area.
Dent de Lanfon is accessible year-round, but the hiking trails are best enjoyed during daylight hours. Always check weather conditions before you go.
There is no admission fee to access the hiking trails of Dent de Lanfon.
While not mandatory, guided tours can be arranged through local outdoor activity providers, especially if you're less experienced with technical hikes.
No specific permits are required for general hiking on Dent de Lanfon. However, always be mindful of local regulations and environmental protection.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The hike is rated as medium to difficult, with a very technical and exposed final section requiring scrambling and climbing skills.
A typical route from Les Villards-Dessus is around 10km with approximately 900 meters of elevation gain, taking about 4.5 hours round trip.
Essential gear includes sturdy hiking boots, layered clothing, water, snacks, a map, and a first-aid kit. A helmet is strongly recommended for the summit approach.
Facilities are scarce on the trail itself. You might find water sources near the Aulp restaurant, but it's best to carry plenty of water with you.
The final ascent is not suitable for beginners due to its technical nature and exposure. Beginners should stick to lower sections or consider a guided hike.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers unparalleled panoramic views of Lake Annecy. The rocky bar leading to the summit also provides dramatic perspectives.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) provides beautiful light for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh but offers clear views.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting like chamois.
Yes, be extremely cautious near the edges, especially on the technical sections. Ensure your footing is secure before taking photos.
Drone regulations can vary. Check local rules and airspace restrictions before flying a drone in the area to ensure compliance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families seeking a more moderate hike with rewarding views, exploring the nearby Semnoz Plateau or other less technical trails around Lake Annecy might be a better fit. Always assess your children's hiking experience and comfort level with heights before attempting any part of Dent de Lanfon.
🧗♀️ Experienced Hikers & Climbers
Climbing enthusiasts will appreciate the 'Urgonian' limestone cliff, which is a known climbing spot. For this audience, the hike is a rewarding adventure, but always prioritize safety by checking conditions, wearing appropriate gear (including a helmet), and being aware of the risks involved in exposed areas.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Be prepared for a challenging hike to reach these prime photo locations. Remember to prioritize safety while composing your shots, as many of the best viewpoints are on exposed ledges. Wide-angle lenses are ideal for capturing the vast landscapes.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Technical Summit Ascent
It's crucial to understand that this part of the trail is exposed and can be genuinely dangerous if not approached with respect and proper preparation. Wet weather or recent rain makes the rocks and scree extremely slippery, significantly increasing the risk. For this reason, it's strongly advised to attempt this route only in dry conditions and to consider wearing a helmet for added protection against falling debris or accidental slips.
Experienced hikers often describe this section as exhilarating but demanding. The reward for this effort is an unparalleled panoramic view, but the journey requires a good level of fitness, confidence with heights, and a solid understanding of your own capabilities. Going with a companion is highly recommended for safety.
Wildlife Encounters and Alpine Scenery
These agile mountain goats are a common sight for those who are patient and observant. Seeing them in their natural habitat adds a special dimension to the hike. The diverse flora also contributes to the scenic beauty, with wildflowers blooming in abundance during the spring and summer months.
The overall landscape is dominated by the dramatic limestone cliffs of the Dent de Lanfon itself, a popular spot for climbing enthusiasts. The contrast between the rugged rock formations and the serene blue expanse of Lake Annecy below creates a truly picturesque environment.
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