Tour du Val d'Arly Mont Blanc hiking trail

We meet at 9am in Flumet, a charming medieval village nestling in the heart of the Val d'Arly. After introductions, we set off to begin our hike up the left bank of the Arrondine, past forest chalets and oratories that bear witness to our alpine past.

After lunch at the summit of Gâteau (1588 m), where the panorama opens up under the eye of Mont-Blanc, we continue to Signal du Sac (1683 m). The day culminates at Tête du Torraz (1930 m), offering breathtaking views of the Aravis range to the north and the stages ahead.

A short descent takes us to the Plan de l'Aar refuge, where a convivial evening awaits you after this fine first day.

The morning begins with a succession of summits: Tête de Christomet, Tête de Bonjournal, and the Petit Croisse Baulet (2009 m). Each ascent rewards us with increasingly impressive panoramas over the surrounding peaks and valleys.

After crossing the Col du Jaillet, we leave Mont Blanc behind and descend into the peaceful Ramadieu mountain pastures, where the landscape softens and quiets.

In the afternoon, we make our way through forested trails before arriving at our hotel in La Giettaz. There, Catherine and Guy greet us with warmth and hospitality after this rich and varied stage across ridgelines and valleys.

Today, we set off to explore the Stamochère mountain pastures and the Foiroux valley, where a clear mountain stream winds its way through alpine meadows. After a steady climb, we reach the summit of Blanchet, which rewards us with breathtaking views over the surrounding massifs.

We then follow the legendary Route de la Soif, a scenic path that offers sweeping vistas of the Aravis, the Beaufortain, and the ever-present Mont Blanc in the distance.

The descent takes us along a narrow mountain trail down to the village of Saint-Nicolas-la-Chapelle, where we spend the night in Marie and Alexis’s Savoyard-style gîte. Known for its warm welcome and delicious cuisine made from fresh, local ingredients, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a stunning day in the mountains.

On this fourth day, we cross the Arly River to reach the Beaufortain side of the range. A steady climb through the cool shade of spruce trees brings us to the village of Crest-Voland, before we continue on to Le Lachat at 1591 m.

For those who are curious, the route can be extended with a detour through the Tourbière des Saisies Nature Reserve, a rare and protected wetland ecosystem. This optional section offers a deeper look into the biodiversity of the region, rich with alpine flora and fauna.

We end the day at the Lachat refuge, a peaceful and authentic mountain hut — the perfect place to unwind and recharge in nature.

When we wake up, Mont Blanc greets us once again, glowing in the morning light. We begin with a descent toward the Nant Rouge, followed by a steady climb to the Chard du Beurre (1893 m), a scenic summit that opens up wide views over the surrounding landscapes.

From there, we continue on to the Col de la Lézette and its peaceful alpine lake. The panoramic ridge trail that follows offers exceptional views, with highlights including Mont Clocher (1976 m), a perfect spot to pause and soak in the moment.

Although this stage is gentler in elevation, it is just as rich in natural beauty and contrasts.

We spend the evening and night at the Croix de Pierre refuge, facing Mont Blanc, for a peaceful and contemplative end to the day.

On this final stage, we climb the Mont de Vorès (2067 m), also known as the Tête des Trois Coins. From the summit, we begin our descent along a panoramic ridge, passing by Ban Rouge and the Roc des Evettes, with sweeping views at every turn.

Each viewpoint becomes a final farewell to Mont Blanc and the unforgettable landscapes of the Val d'Arly.

We end our journey in style at Notre-Dame-de-Bellecombe, before reaching Flumet, the final stop on this memorable adventure.