Aravis Mountain Adventure
Owen Murphy
| 06-02-2026
· Travel team
We are excited to guide you through the Aravis Mountains, one of France’s most accessible and scenic ranges. Located in the eastern Savoie and Haute-Savoie departments, this pre-Alps area features high peaks, tranquil rivers, and valleys full of charm.
The tallest peak, Pointe Percée, rises to 2,753 meters (9,032 feet), offering panoramic views over rolling mountains and neighboring valleys. Best of all, access to the mountains is free, so we can enjoy hiking, photography, and riverside strolls without paying entrance fees.
Best Time to Visit
We recommend visiting May to September for hiking, wildflower meadows, and riverside walks. If we prefer snow activities like skiing or snowshoeing, the ideal months are December to February. Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light for photos and fewer crowds on popular trails.
Getting There and Transportation
We usually reach the Aravis Mountains via Geneva or Lyon airports. From there:
- By Car: About 1.5–2 hours to base towns like Cluses, La Clusaz, or Ugine. Parking at trailheads is typically free or $2–$5 per day.
- Public Bus: Local buses connect Cluses, La Clusaz, and Ugine with nearby trailheads. Tickets cost roughly $3–$8 per ride.
- Taxi/Shuttle: Seasonal shuttles from towns to major hiking spots may run $10–$15 per person.
Having a car gives us more flexibility, especially if we want to explore multiple valleys or visit scenic river spots.
Accommodation Options
We can stay in towns like Cluses, La Clusaz, or Ugine. Options include:
- Small hotels/guesthouses: $70–$120 per night.
- Mountain huts (Refuge de la Pointe Percée, Col des Aravis huts): $50–$90 per night, often including simple meals. Reservations are recommended during summer and winter peak seasons.
- Vacation rentals: $80–$150 per night for apartments or chalets in scenic locations.
Dining Options and Pricing
We can enjoy local cafes, bakeries, and restaurants in Cluses or La Clusaz:
- Breakfast: $5–$10 per person for pastries, coffee, and juice.
- Lunch or light meal: $10–$20 per person for sandwiches, salads, or simple local dishes.
- Dinner: $20–$35 per person for full meals including cheese, vegetables, and local specialties.
- Snacks on trails: Mountain huts sell sandwiches, drinks, and snacks for $5–$12.
Top Hiking Trails
- Pointe Percée Summit: Difficult climb, 6–8 hours round-trip, trail markers present, no entrance fee.
- Col des Aravis Loop: Moderate, 3–4 hours, scenic viewpoints and forested paths.
- La Clusaz Valley Walks: Easy, 1–2 hours, along rivers, good for picnics and wildlife watching.
Tips: start early, bring water, layered clothing, and sturdy shoes. GPS or a printed map is recommended, as weather can change quickly.
Rivers and Scenic Valleys
The Aravis River flows from Cluses to Ugine. We can enjoy walking along its banks, having picnics, or photographing wildlife. The Arly River Valley is also accessible and free to explore. Both rivers have calm sections ideal for resting or spotting birds and small alpine animals.
Visitor Centers and Opening Hours
- La Clusaz Tourism Office: Open daily 9:00–12:30 and 14:00–18:00, closed on Sundays in winter. Free entry.
- Ugine Visitor Center: Open 10:00–12:00 and 14:00–17:00, closed Mondays. They provide maps, guides, and trail information for free.
Seasonal Attractions
- Spring/Summer: Wildflowers bloom, trails are active, rivers sparkle.
- Autumn: Forests painted in red and orange, perfect for short hikes and photography.
- Winter: Snow-covered peaks for skiing, snowshoeing, or winter walks.
Practical Tips
- Parking: Free or $2–$5 at most trailheads.
- Food & Drinks: Cafes and mountain huts are affordable, $5–$35 per person.
- Guided Tours: Half-day or full-day hikes with local guides cost $60–$120 per group.
- Safety: Check weather, wear layers, bring water and snacks, and always inform someone of your route if hiking alone.
Enjoying the Aravis Experience
We can pause by streams, spot alpine wildlife, and enjoy local cheese or bread for a picnic. Every trail, river, and meadow offers us a chance to connect with nature and relax. Photography enthusiasts will find endless views to capture, while casual explorers can enjoy easy valley walks without crowds.
Discover and Remember
We hope this guide helps plan a memorable visit to the Aravis Mountains. From the breathtaking Pointe Percée to peaceful rivers and colorful meadows, every corner offers something new to discover. So, Lykkers, pack your hiking shoes, bring a map, and let the Aravis Mountains surprise you with unforgettable adventures!
Aravis Mountains La Clusaz Alps France DJI Mavic Pro Droneyoutube com
Video by Jose Antonio Villalobos