wandelgids Walking in the Haute Savoie: South

Second volume of a 2-part guide to walking in the Haute Savoie in the French Alps. This guidebook describes 30 half to full-day routes in the area between Chamonix and Annecy. Walks are located near Samoëns, Sixt, La Clusaz, Thônes, la Roche-sur-Foron and Lake Annecy. Includes Chaîne des Aravis, Plateau de la Borne and Haut Giffre.

Seasons
Spring and summer, when the snow has melted and the slopes are bright with alpine flowers. Autumn, when the leaves are changing, and even winter for some of the lower walks

Centres
Annecy, La Clusaz, Grand Bornand, Plateau d'Assy, Samoëns, Sixt, Sallanches, Thônes, la Roche-sur-Foron

Difficulty
A variety of routes of differing length and height gain, suitable for most abilities, graded from easy to difficult. None require special equipment or expertise, but those graded difficult have some exposed sections, often protected by cables, and need a head for heights

Must See
Major peaks: Tournette, Tête de Boston, Parmelan, Môle Lakes: Annecy, Anterne, Vogealle, Gers, Lessy, Bénit, and numerous small mountain lakes Historical attractions: in the footsteps of English alpinist Alfred Wills, French Resistance monuments, monasteries, mountain chapels and shrines Geological features: dramatic waterfalls and limestone pavements Nature reserves, alpine gardens, bird migratory routes