Trek the ridges of the Val d’Arly: facing Mont Blanc

May to October

6 days| 5 nights

Eco-score 4/5

What you will experience

Follow the emblematic trails of the Val d'Arly: a wild, unspoilt region where every summit offers spectacular views of Mont Blanc, the Aravis mountains and the Beaufortain.

Hike from refuge to gîte and rest in typical Savoyard accommodation, where friendliness and mountain charm go hand in hand.

Explore the Saisies peat bog, a listed nature reserve and a rare ecosystem harbouring exceptional biodiversity.

Sleep in the authentic refuges of the Val d'Arly, where you'll enjoy a Savoyard welcome, local produce and convivial evenings.

Reach Mont de Vorès (2,067 m) for your last 360° panorama of Mont-Blanc, the Aravis and Beaufortain.

Itinerary

1
DAY1/ 6
- Accommodation·Mountain hut
  Where we'll be spending the night
- D+·1060m
  Vertical ascent
- Distance·12km
  KM covered
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.

2
DAY2/ 6
- Accommodation·Hotel
  Where we'll be spending the night
- D+·630m
  Vertical ascent
- Distance·13.5km
  KM covered
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.
3
DAY3/ 6
- Accommodation·Gîte
  Where we'll be spending the night
- D+·960m
  Vertical ascent
- Distance·16km
  KM covered
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.
4
DAY4/ 6
- Accommodation·Mountain hut
  Where we'll be spending the night
- D+·940m
  Vertical ascent
- Distance·13.5km
  KM covered
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.
5
DAY5/ 6
- Accommodation·Mountain hut
  Where we'll be spending the night
- D+·670m
  Vertical ascent
- Distance·13km
  KM covered
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.
6
DAY6/ 6
- D+·240m
  Vertical ascent
- Distance·14km
  KM covered
On this final stage, we climb the Mont de Vorès (2067m), also known as the Tête des Trois Coins, the high point of our day. From its summit, the view unfolds across a full 360°, taking in valleys, ridges and snow-capped peaks.

We then 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.

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The guides who will lead your adventure

Etienne

Mountain leader (AMM)

French

English

As an engineer by training and a teacher, I'm keen to share my knowledge by immersing myself in nature and the living world, and to learn continually alongside you. There's something for everyone: naturalists, dreamers, sports enthusiasts, bon vivants... Get your boots on, the journey has already begun!

Find out more about Etienne

What's included in the price

Included

Supervision: You will be supervised for the 6 days by Etienne, an experienced mountain guide.

Accommodation: You will sleep every night in gîtes or guarded refuges. These are comfortable accommodations and you will sleep in shared rooms [single beds].

Catering: All meals are included from the first evening until the last picnic. All meals are cooked by local chefs to introduce you to local specialities and products.

Not included

The journey to the meeting point

Any personal consumption

Everything that is not included in "what the price includes".

Picnic on the first day.

What level to expect?

Level 3

Participants must be at least 18 years old

WHO IS THIS FOR?

This trip is for people who exercise regularly, ready to string together several days of walking between panoramic summits, forests and rural valleys, facing Mont Blanc.

You're at the right level if:

You can walk 5 to 7 hours a day, with regular breaks
You can cope with daily ascents and descents of between 600 and 1000 m
You enjoy regular exercise (walking, running, cycling, etc.), even if you're not an experienced mountaineer
You enjoy walking for several days at a time with a rucksack (light, because you don't have to carry much and you're in comfortable accommodation)
You enjoy alternating between panoramic summits, forest crossings and rural valleys
You're ready to immerse yourself for several days, staying in gîtes and refuges

Take the level quiz

Getting there

Start · 09h00

Flumet

End · 16h00

Flumet

Transport

By train

Want to skip the traffic and travel stress-free? The train is your ally. You can reach Flumet by train:

Departure station > Annecy station
Annecy station > Sallanches
Sallanches > Flumet - Tourist Office

You'll arrive at the Flumet tourist office, the meeting point for your expedition.

By car

Fancy the freedom of a road trip?

Free parking is available at the Flumet tourist office where you can leave your car for the whole trip.

Do consider carpooling: a WhatsApp group will be set up 10 days before departure so you can organise this with the other participants.

How to register

Step 1

Choose your departure date and number of participants

Step 2

Book online by paying a deposit or the full amount directly. It is also possible to book by telephone by calling +32 460 25 61 85 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm).

If the minimum number of participants is reached, departure is confirmed!
If the minimum number of participants is not reached, we will give you a full refund.

Departure is confirmed 15 days in advance for adventures lasting more than 4 days. Departure is confirmed 7 days prior for adventures lasting less than 4 days.

Step 3

In the case of a deposit, the remaining amount will be debited from your account before departure.

Your reviews

The opinions of our participants who have placed their trust in us

4.7/ 5 · based on 90 reviews in this category

Denise H.

Guide très agréable, à l écoute des désirs et des aptitudes des participants. Refuge, accueil très sympathique, repas de qualité et très savoureux. Belle experience. Merci

Marie F.

Absolument ravie d’être passée par Wildhartt pour ma première expérience de trek/bivouak ! Notre guide Thomas était top, l’organisation parfaite (matériel, repas, logistique) La création du groupe Whatsapp en amont du départ est un vrai + Hâte de réserver ma prochaine aventure !

Christophe R.

Nous avons participé cet été à cette randonnée itinérante de 5 jours avec des ânes en famille, avec nos deux enfants de 8 et 11 ans, et nous en gardons un très beau souvenir. Un grand merci à notre accompagnateur, Romain, qui a parfaitement géré le séjour du début à la fin, y compris lors des moments plus compliqués. Il est très présent et prend en charge une grande partie des aspects pratiques, ce qui est particulièrement appréciable. Il faut cependant garder à l'esprit qu'il reste tout de même un certain nombre de choses à gérer en tant que participant, notamment lorsqu'on voyage avec des enfants. Le matériel fourni pour les ânes était parfaitement adapté et nous a permis de profiter pleinement de l'expérience. Quant au parcours, il était tout simplement magnifique, avec des paysages variés et superbes. Nous avons particulièrement apprécié le premier bivouac, qui se trouvait dans un cadre splendide, ainsi que la nuit en auberge dont le confort a été très apprécié après deux étapes fatigantes. Concernant les points plus mitigés, nous avons trouvé que le début du parcours était sensiblement plus difficile et technique que ce à quoi nous nous attendions au regard du niveau annoncé pour le séjour. La conduite des ânes demande un temps d'adaptation, et la combinaison de cette découverte avec des étapes de randonnée déjà exigeantes a rendu les deux premiers jours assez sportifs. Heureusement, Romain a su s'adapter à la situation en modifiant intelligemment l'itinéraire afin d'alléger la troisième journée. Cette adaptation nous a permis de récupérer et de profiter pleinement de la suite du séjour. Malgré cette réserve sur le niveau de difficulté du début du parcours, nous recommandons cette expérience pour la qualité de l'encadrement, la beauté des paysages et l'originalité de l'aventure avec les ânes.

Laetitia L.

Une randonnée magnifique, dépaysante, avec des paysages variés à couper le souffle. Grâce à Raphaël, nous avons pu voyager autant dans cet espace magnifique que dans le temps, grâce à ses explications sur la géologie de cet environnement.

Serge D.

Partis en rando-ânes en groupe réduit, nous avons pu bénéficier d’un guide exceptionnel qui par son implication, ses connaissances du milieu naturel et son expérience a rendu ce séjour de 5 jours dans les Cévennes inoubliable.

Frequently asked questions

I'd like to arrive the day before departure. Do you offer this as an option?

Yes, we offer to book a night in a gîte the day before departure at the next stage of your booking. This is an overnight stay with breakfast included.

How comfortable is the accommodation we'll be staying in?

You'll spend 5 nights in different types of accommodation, alternating between gîtes, guarded refuges and comfortable hotels. Every night, you'll sleep in a single bed in a shared room. On site, you'll have access to clean showers and toilets.

Are instalment payment options available?

Yes, that's right! At checkout, you can choose the Alma option to pay for your booking in 2x, 3x or 4x. All you have to do is select Alma at checkout and follow the instructions. It's simple, fast and secure.

Can I privatise this expedition for my group?

Yes, all our expeditions can be privatised for a group already formed, on the dates of your choice.

To make your request, go to the expedition that interests you and click on "Privatise the expedition". We'll take care of the rest!

What kind of people usually join Wildhartt expeditions ?

You don’t need to be a top athlete or adventure expert to feel at home. Most Wildhartt participants are between 25 and 60 years old, with a balanced mix of women and men.

Many join solo or in small groups of two or three. They often live in cities and are looking for a meaningful break — some time to reconnect with nature, slow down, and enjoy something real.

They usually have a regular movement practice (hiking, running, yoga...), but not with a competitive mindset. They’re in good shape, but don’t necessarily have technical skills. What brings them together is a shared desire to disconnect, observe, learn, and experience nature in a more grounded, accessible way.

If that speaks to you, you'll feel right at home. The group spirit is kind and open, and the pace adapts to everyone.

What happens if the weather is bad?

At Wildhartt, nature is our playground, rain or shine. Rain, snow or wind: our guides adapt the itinerary, activities and accommodation to guarantee you the best possible experience.
Unless safety is at stake (storm, avalanche, flood...).

In this exceptional case, we can cancel an expedition, at least one week before departure.
If this happens:
→ You can postpone your adventure at no cost,
→ Or receive a full refund.

What does the price of a Wildhartt adventure include?

At Wildhartt, transparency is essential. The price of your expedition reflects a clear breakdown of costs:

30% for our guides, the mainstays of every adventure.
35% for accommodation and meals, essential for your comfort.
10% for equipment and transport, to guarantee safety and fluidity.
24% for organisation and logistics, from first contact to the end of the expedition.
1% for the rewilding of Europe, a concrete commitment to give back to nature what it gives us.

Our priority: to offer you a quality experience, with complete clarity.

Do you have any questions? Contact us.

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