The best mountain hikes around Les Marches

There are 9 mountaineering routes detailed in this guide for the Les Marches area, offering a range of experiences within the Chartreuse and Bauges massifs.

The majority of mountaineering routes around Les Marches are classified as difficult, with 7 out of 9 routes falling into this category. There are also 2 moderate routes available for those seeking a less strenuous experience.

Yes, there are a couple of moderate routes. You could consider the Pas de Belles Ombres loop from Sainte-Marie-du-Mont, which is about 5.4 km long and takes around 2 hours 35 minutes. Another option is the Pointe de la Galoppaz loop from Puygros, an 8.3 km route typically completed in about 4 hours 15 minutes.

The terrain around Les Marches is characterized by the rugged limestone peaks of the Chartreuse and Bauges massifs. You'll encounter a diverse landscape, including dense forests at lower elevations, exposed alpine meadows, and rocky summits. Routes often feature significant elevation gain.

Yes, many routes in the area are circular. For example, the challenging Mont Granier – Col de l'Alpette loop from Parking de la Plagne is a popular circular option. Another is the Mount Outheran - 1686 m loop from Le Désert d'Entremont, which also offers a loop experience.

The region offers stunning natural beauty. Along your routes, you might encounter highlights such as Mount Outheran itself, or enjoy panoramic views from Mont Grêle Viewpoint. The area is also dotted with beautiful lakes like Lake Saint-André and Lac de Sainte Hélène, which can be seen from various vantage points.

The mountaineering routes in Les Marches are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.7 stars from over 10 reviews. Mountaineers often praise the expansive mountain vistas and the challenging nature of the ascents.

Yes, many routes, especially the popular ones, start from designated parking areas. For instance, the Mont Granier – Col de l'Alpette loop begins from Parking de la Plagne, indicating specific parking facilities are available for access.

Generally, permits are not required for standard mountaineering routes in the Chartreuse and Bauges massifs. However, it's always advisable to check local regulations, especially if you plan to venture into protected areas or engage in specific climbing activities that might have restrictions.

The best season for mountaineering in Les Marches is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to October), when trails are generally clear of snow and weather conditions are more stable. Always check current weather forecasts and trail conditions before heading out, as alpine weather can change rapidly.

For a longer and more challenging experience, consider the Pointe de la Galoppaz – Col de la Buffaz loop from Puygros. This difficult route spans about 12.0 km and involves over 1000 meters of elevation gain, typically taking around 5 hours 31 minutes to complete.