La Tournette
A challenging alpine hike near Annecy, La Tournette offers thrilling climbs and breathtaking 360° views of the lake and mountains.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat crowds & heat
La Tournette
Best Time
Beat crowds & heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging alpine hike near Annecy, La Tournette offers thrilling climbs and breathtaking 360° views of the lake and mountains.
"The Hike la Toutnette at Annecy Lake is truly breathtaking. The landscapes along the way are nothing short of amazing."
🎯 Start Early to Beat Crowds
The trail gets very busy, especially in summer. Aim for an early start to enjoy a more peaceful ascent and better views.
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
This hike involves scrambling and steep sections. Good hiking boots with grip are essential for safety and comfort.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Summit Panorama
Summit of La Tournette
Breathtaking 360-degree views of Lake Annecy, the surrounding Alps, and even Mont Blanc on a clear day.
Ladder and Chain Sections
Upper reaches of the trail
Exciting, exposed passages with ladders and chains that add an adventurous element to the climb.
+1
Col de l'Aulp
Mid-point of the hike
A scenic plateau offering a welcome rest stop with potential for spotting friendly mountain goats.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Gear Up for the Challenge
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Start Early to Beat Crowds
The trail gets very busy, especially in summer. Aim for an early start to enjoy a more peaceful ascent and better views.
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
This hike involves scrambling and steep sections. Good hiking boots with grip are essential for safety and comfort.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
The ascent is strenuous and can be hot. Carry more water than you think you'll need, and consider layers as temperatures drop higher up.
⬆️ Choose Your Route Wisely
From Col de Aulp, the left path is more challenging and potentially dangerous; the right path is safer.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Start Early to Beat Crowds
The trail gets very busy, especially in summer. Aim for an early start to enjoy a more peaceful ascent and better views.
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
This hike involves scrambling and steep sections. Good hiking boots with grip are essential for safety and comfort.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
The ascent is strenuous and can be hot. Carry more water than you think you'll need, and consider layers as temperatures drop higher up.
⬆️ Choose Your Route Wisely
From Col de Aulp, the left path is more challenging and potentially dangerous; the right path is safer.
🐐 Watch for Mountain Goats
Friendly mountain goats are often spotted near the summit, adding a unique wildlife encounter to your hike.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
La Tournette is a highly rewarding, albeit challenging, hike offering spectacular panoramic views of Lake Annecy and the surrounding Alps. While the ascent is strenuous and includes technical sections with ladders and chains, most visitors find the effort well worth the breathtaking scenery. Starting early is strongly advised to avoid crowds, and proper gear is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.
"Very good - go early to avoid the circus.
Easy scramble for beginners as long as you have alpine legs."
Ryan
"The Hike la Toutnette at Annecy Lake is truly breathtaking. The landscapes along the way are nothing short of amazing. When you reach the summit, you're rewarded with a stunning 360-degree view that includes not only the lake but also Mont Blanc! I highly recommend starting this hike early in the morning because, as the highest mountain around the lake, it's quite popular, and the trail can get crowded. It's important to be comfortable with both hiking and a bit of climbing since there are sections where you’ll need to hold on to a metallic rope. But trust me, it's absolutely worth it! 🏔️☀️💚"
domitilllaa
"Definitely a walk for experienced walkers. We went as a family but my parents (60yo competent walkers) got scared of the fog around halfway up and so turned around. However we carried on in quite cloudy conditions (you could always see where you were going, just not the view!). There’s a lot of scrambling/sliding. And to get to the peak is two ladders with quite a sheer drop (but they feel v sturdy!). Can imagine it’s quite spectacular on a clear day, but equally as accomplishing on a cloudy one too! Oh and there’s friendly mountain goats near the top too. Take lots of water/layers/food - temp drops around 10° from the car park to the peak. We did it quite quickly - around 4.5hours up and down including a lunch stop, but we ran all the downhill parts (signposted time is 4 hours just to the peak, maybe 2.5 extra to come down). We followed a route from alltrails but it’s also fairly well signposted all the way"
Libby Wales
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Getting to the La Tournette trailhead without a car can be challenging due to limited public transport options. Some hikers suggest taking a bus to a nearby village and then walking or arranging a taxi for the remaining distance. Alternatively, consider joining a guided hike that includes transportation.
Parking is available at Pré-Verel, which is a larger parking area, and also at Col de l'Aulp, which is smaller. Arriving early is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure a spot.
The driving distance from Annecy to the common starting points like Pré-Verel is approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific trailhead you choose.
Currently, there are no dedicated shuttle services directly to the La Tournette trailhead. Public transport options are limited, making a car or organized tour the most convenient ways to access the start of the hike.
Yes, La Tournette can be done as a challenging day trip from Geneva, but it requires an early start. The drive from Geneva to the trailhead is about 1.5 to 2 hours each way, so factor in significant travel time.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets or entrance fees required to hike La Tournette. It is a natural mountain trail accessible to the public.
La Tournette is accessible year-round, but the best time to hike is during the warmer months (late spring to early autumn) when trails are clear of snow and ice. There are no official opening or closing hours.
There is no admission fee for hiking La Tournette. The access to the trails is free.
If you opt for a guided tour, it's advisable to book in advance, especially during the peak summer season, to secure your spot.
No permits are required for individuals or small groups hiking La Tournette. However, always be mindful of respecting the natural environment.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The La Tournette hike is considered difficult, with significant elevation gain (around 1200m D+) over a relatively short distance. It involves steep ascents, scrambling, and sections with ladders and chains.
The total distance for the La Tournette hike, typically an out-and-back route, is around 11-12 kilometers (approximately 7 miles).
The estimated time to hike La Tournette can vary greatly depending on fitness levels and conditions. It's often cited as 4-5 hours to the peak, with an additional 2-3 hours for the descent. Some experienced hikers can complete it faster.
Yes, the upper sections of the La Tournette trail are technical, featuring ladders and chains that require you to hold on. It's not recommended for those with a fear of heights or beginners without alpine experience.
You can expect spectacular panoramic views of Lake Annecy, the surrounding French Alps, the Aravis range, and Mont Blanc on clear days. The summit offers a truly breathtaking 360-degree vista.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or cafes directly on the La Tournette hiking trail itself. However, you might find options at the Col de l'Aulp or in villages near the trailhead before or after your hike.
It's essential to pack plenty of high-energy snacks and a substantial lunch. Think sandwiches, fruit, nuts, and energy bars. Remember to carry enough water as well.
There are no reliable water sources on the trail for refilling water bottles. It's crucial to carry all the water you'll need for the entire hike.
While there isn't a designated picnic area, the Col de l'Aulp offers a pleasant spot to rest and enjoy a packed lunch with beautiful surroundings.
After your hike, you can find excellent dining options in the town of Annecy, offering a variety of cuisines from traditional Savoyard to international dishes.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers the most iconic panoramic shots. However, many points along the trail, especially at the Col de l'Aulp and viewpoints overlooking Lake Annecy, provide stunning photographic opportunities.
Early morning light offers softer shadows and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the grandeur of the landscape. Late afternoon can also provide beautiful golden hour light.
A smartphone camera is sufficient for capturing great shots, but a camera with good low-light capabilities and a wide-angle lens can enhance landscape photography.
While tempting, it's best to prioritize safety. Take photos before or after these technical sections, or have someone else take your photo while you focus on climbing.
The dramatic summit cross, the sweeping views of Lake Annecy, the rugged mountain ridges, and the unique ladder/chain sections are all highly photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+2 If your children are experienced hikers with a good head for heights and are comfortable with scrambling, it might be manageable, but it's a significant undertaking. Consider alternative, less strenuous hikes around Lake Annecy if you're looking for family-friendly options. For instance, trails around Semnoz or Mont Veyrier offer beautiful views with less technical difficulty. Always assess your children's capabilities realistically before attempting La Tournette.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save money, consider packing all your own food and water for the hike. If you don't have a car, research public transport options thoroughly, though they may add time and cost. Carpooling with other travelers or looking for guided tours that offer good value can also be cost-effective ways to manage transportation.
💑 Couples
+1Pack a romantic picnic to enjoy at the Col de l'Aulp or even at the summit (weather permitting) for an unforgettable moment. The shared effort and the breathtaking scenery make for a perfect bonding experience. Consider timing your hike to catch a beautiful sunset from a viewpoint on the way down, if safety allows.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The La Tournette Hike: A Detailed Look
+1Key features of the hike include steep, rocky paths, sections of scrambling, and the memorable passages equipped with ladders and chains. These technical elements add an element of adventure, making the climb an engaging experience. It's crucial to wear appropriate footwear, such as sturdy hiking boots, and to be prepared for changing weather conditions, as temperatures can drop significantly from the valley to the summit.
+2Many hikers recommend starting early to avoid the midday crowds and heat, particularly during the summer months. The summit offers a spectacular 360-degree panorama encompassing Lake Annecy, the surrounding French Alps, and on clear days, the majestic Mont Blanc. The descent can be as challenging as the ascent, with some opting to run down the steeper parts.
Navigating the Technical Sections
+2When approaching these sections, it's important to remain calm and focused. Ensure your footing is secure before moving to the next rung or handhold. If you are hiking with others, maintain a safe distance between yourselves. The chains are sturdy and well-anchored, providing a secure grip, but always test your hold before committing your weight.
Many visitors find these technical parts to be a highlight of the hike, offering a sense of accomplishment. The views from these exposed areas are also dramatic, but it's wise to pause for photos after you've safely navigated the climb.
+1Best Views and Photo Opportunities
+2Beyond the summit, numerous viewpoints along the trail offer fantastic photographic opportunities. The Col de l'Aulp provides a scenic spot for a break with lovely vistas. As you ascend, keep an eye out for moments where the lake and mountains frame each other perfectly. The unique ladder and chain sections also make for dramatic and memorable photos, capturing the adventurous spirit of the hike.
+1For the best photographic results, consider visiting during the golden hours – early morning or late afternoon. The soft, warm light enhances the landscape's textures and colors, and you'll likely encounter fewer fellow hikers, allowing for more serene shots.
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