The most beautiful hikes around Lavancher
Six trails starting from or in the immediate vicinity of the hamlet of Lavancher in Chamonix Mont-Blanc — from Lac Blanc to the Sources of the Arveyron.
The hamlet of Lavancher is a hiker's secret. Perched at 1,250 meters, ten minutes from the center of Chamonix Mont-Blanc, it opens directly onto the north face of the massif and offers access to some of the valley's most beautiful trails—without having to get back in the car. Here is our selection of six hikes starting directly from the hamlet. Chalet Hotel Jeu de Paume, or a quarter of an hour away by shuttle, classified by difficulty.
1. The Sources of the Arveyron — the family walk
The most accessible. A five-minute walk from Lavancher, the trail of sources of the Arveyron The trail descends to the point where the glacier turns into a stream. It's shaded, short, and accessible with all-terrain strollers. Allow 1 hour for the round trip; ideal for children aged 3 to 8. Bonus: a mini-canyon where you can enjoy a snack by the water.
2. The Little North Balcony — easy high-altitude trail
Le Small North Balcony This is the trail that runs along the valley at mid-height, facing Mont Blanc. You can access it directly from Le Lavancher and follow it for two or three hours without any steep climbs, stopping at the viewpoints. Ideal for a half-day, including a picnic. For a direct return without retracing your steps, descend via Argentière and take the Mont Blanc Express train back to Le Lavancher.
3. The Stagecoach Route in Vallorcine — a historical walk
For walkers who love history. The Stagecoach Road This route follows the old postal road that connected Chamonix to Vallorcine. Enjoy a wooded atmosphere, a moderate elevation gain, and beautiful views of the valley. Allow 3 to 4 hours for the round trip, depending on the chosen itinerary. Access from Vallorcine is by train or car, 15 minutes from Le Lavancher.
4. The Col de Balme — the border above the Tour
One of the most beautiful views in the valley. The Col de Balme At 2,191 meters, on the Franco-Swiss border, it offers a 360° panorama of the Mont Blanc massif—the French range on one side, the Valais peaks on the other. It can be reached on foot from Le Tour (3-4 hours, significant elevation gain) or by cable car for those less athletically inclined. Combine it with a stop at the Col de Balme refuge.
5. The Aiguillette des Posettes — 360° panorama
One of the most popular hikes in the valley.Aiguillette of Posettes At 2,201 meters, the summit can be reached from Le Tour or the Col des Posettes, in 2 to 3 hours. The summit is a ridge trail offering panoramic views of the Mont Blanc massif, the Aiguilles Rouges, the Glacier du Tour, and the Vallorcine valley. Intermediate level; good hiking boots recommended.
6. La Flégère and Lac Blanc — the unmissable
The classic of classics. Since the Flegère (accessible by cable car from Les Praz, ten minutes from Le Lavancher), you can reach the White LakeAt 2,352 meters — one of the most photographed panoramas in the Alps, with the Mont Blanc massif reflected in the turquoise water. A steady climb, with an elevation gain of approximately 600 meters, but the reward is well worth it. Best done early in the morning for the light, or to spend the night at the often-booked refuge.
To go further — mountain huts, glaciers, crossings
Experienced walkers will continue towards the high-altitude refuges Albert 1er refuge, Couvercle refuge, Cosmiques refuge. For glacier outings (Vallée Blanche, Argentière glacier), go through a high mountain guide is indispensable — the Chamonix Guide CompanyThe oldest in the world, it offers outings for all levels.Chamonix Tourist Office keeps up-to-date with trail conditions, alerts and closures.
After the hike — spa, dinner at the Rosebud, bathrobe
Returning to the cabin is half the fun. spa du Jeu de PaumeThe sauna, hammam, and outdoor jacuzzi facing the Aiguilles work wonders on tired calves. targeted massages — Back, legs, rolling massage — are the classic late afternoon treatments. In the evening, dinner at restaurant The Rosebud (Alpine-inspired cuisine by Mathilde Walisko, Écotable macaron) or weekend brunch & barbecue at The Lavancher Table.
