You know those postcard-perfect Alpine landscapes? Why just admire them—when you can hike through them? This self-guided adventure takes you from Chamonix, a world-class outdoor hub, to Annecy, one of Europe’s most picturesque mountain lakes. Nearly every step rewards you with breathtaking views. And the best part? You’re in control. Hike at your own pace, take as many breaks as you like, and enjoy the freedom of self-guided exploration—all while benefiting from expert support and daily luggage transport. Soak in that ‘Sound of Music’ feeling, wander through charming Alpine villages, and experience why this legendary mountain range is a true hiker’s paradise.
8 days in the Alps is a dream for every hiker. Embark on a self-guided hiking tour from Chamonix to Annecy and explore some of the most authentic and well-preserved villages in the Aravis region: Grand Bornand, Chinaillon, and Clusaz. This tour is perfect for those who enjoy comfort during their travels, as you'll stay in carefully selected 3-star or 4-star hotels. Breathe in the Alpine air and experience the mountains at your own pace, knowing that your guides—despite it being a self-guided tour—are always available. Savor delicious Alpine specialties, admire the stunning landscapes, and let the Alps enchant you in the best way they know how.
Your adventure begins in Chamonix, a charming village nestled in the heart of Mont Blanc. You’ll arrive from Geneva Airport, just 90 km (56 miles) away, and after a transfer (not included), you’ll settle into a comfortable 4-star hotel.
Accommodation: 4-star hotel
After a short morning transfer by public bus (not included), you’ll travel up the valley to Argentière, where your hike begins. Today, you’ll explore the scenery of the Balcon des Aiguilles Rouges before ascending to the stunning Lake Blanc. Along the way, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of iconic peaks like Aiguille Verte, Les Drus, La Mer de Glace, Aiguilles de Chamonix, Mont Blanc du Tacul, Aiguille du Goûter, and Mont Blanc. The descent to Chamonix follows the picturesque path through Le Praz. For a return, you also have the option to take the cable car from La Flégère (not included).
Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: 9.6 km (6 mi) if taking the cable car, otherwise 14.5 km (9 mi)
Elevation: +900, -1,100 m / +2,953, -3,609 ft
Accommodation: 4-star hotel
Spend another day in Chamonix, exploring at your own pace. If the season permits and snow conditions allow, take the cable car from Chamonix to Plan Praz, or continue on to Le Brévent. From there, enjoy an exciting hike to Les Houches along the final stretch of the Tour du Mont Blanc. Make your way back to Chamonix by train or public bus (not included) from Les Houches.
Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: 13 km / 8.1 mi
Elevation: +515, -1,540 m / +1,690, -5,053 ft
Accommodation: 4-star hotel
Start with a morning transfer (train or bus, not included) to Les Houches. A cable car ride to Bellevue (not included) bypasses the initial climb, offering a gentler start to your hike. The trail winds through forests with views of the Bionnassay Valley, Mont Blanc, and the towering Dôme du Goûter and Aiguille de Bionnassay. After crossing the Col de Tricot, descend to Chalet de Miage, then continue to the village of Les Contamines. Finally, enjoy a private transfer (about 1 hour, included) to La Clusaz where you’ll end your day in a 3-star hotel.
Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: 12 km / 7.5 mi
Elevation: +640, -1,275 m / +2,100, -4,183 ft
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
Start your hike at Lac des Confins (bus transfer not included), walking through the mountain pastures of the Confins plateau. You’ll pass near the impressive Pointe Percée and reach the end of Bouchet Valley, surrounded by a beautiful cirque.
The trail leads you beneath Pointe du Roulletaz before crossing the Borneronde Pass and continuing to Annes Pass, where you can enjoy a lunch break at the cottage. Finally, descend to the hamlet of Chinaillon, beneath the ridges of Pointe d’Almet, Grande Combe, and Pointe de Deux Heures, to complete your hike for today.
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Hiking: 14.5 km (9 mi) if you choose easier hiking option, otherwise 15 km (9.3 mi)
Elevation: +600, -650 m (+1,969, -2,133) ft if you choose easier hiking option, otherwise +800, -850 m (+2,625, -2,789 ft)
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
Begin your adventure with a climb up to the Aiguille Verte ridge, where panoramic views of Lessy Lake unfold before you. You’ll enjoy the sight from the ridge, stretching all the way to the impressive Pointe Percée summit in the Aravis. After soaking in the scenery, continue your trek by crossing the Col de la Forclaz, descending into the quaint hamlet of Mayse, where a cozy sheepfold and cottage offer a perfect spot for a break, complete with drinks, snacks, or lunch.
The journey then takes you up to the Planay Pass, tucked between the towering Roc des Tours and Roc des Charmieux. From here, the path leads downhill toward Mouilles and Tannaz, ultimately bringing you to Le Grand Bornand.
Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: 12 km (7.5 mi) if you choose easier hiking option, otherwise 18 km / 11.2 mi
Elevation: +470, -650 m (+1,542, -2,133 ft) if you choose easier hiking option, otherwise +1,070, -1,450 m (+3,511, -4,757 ft)
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
You have three options for hiking for today. Start your day with an early private transfer to Montremont (30 minutes, included). From there, you’ll ascend to the Nantets Pass, situated on the shoulder of La Tournette, the highest peak overlooking Lake Annecy. After enjoying the views, you’ll descend to the base of the Dents de Lanfon and follow the trail leading to Talloires, nestled near the lake.
You can board the “Navibus,” a boat shuttle that circles the lake (not included), traveling through Doussard and Duingt on your way to Annecy. Alternatively, a public bus (~30 min, not included) provides a scenic route to Annecy by road.
Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: 9 km (5.6 mi) if you choose easier hiking option, otherwise 14.5 km (9 mi)
Elevation: +600, -1,000 m (+1,969, -3,281) if you choose easier hiking option, otherwise +850, -1,270 m (+2,789, -4,167 ft)
Accommodation: 4-star hotel
After breakfast and check-out (by 10am), you can choose to extend your stay in Annecy and add an extra hike, whether you’re staying or continuing on. To reach Col de Bluffy, take the public bus toward Thônes. From there, hike up to the Mont Barret ridge, cross it, and continue to Col de Contrebandiers. Then, head to Mont Baron, where you’ll enjoy incredible views. The trail continues along the ridge to Mont Veyrier, the highest point, before descending to the lake’s edge. This marks the end of your self-guided journey—if you’d like to stay additional nights, let us know!
Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: 11.4 km / 7.1 mi
Elevation: +735, -920 m / +2,411, -3,018 ft
Please note that accommodations are subject to availability and it may not be possible to book the exact accommodations listed day-by-day in the itinerary. There’s a chance that the guiding company might need to book dormitories instead.
Also note that your chosen dates for the tour are not guaranteed until confirmed by the guide. If the guide is unable to secure your preferred dates/accommodation, you’ll get a full refund!
I have traveled with Grand Angle in Europe for several years with a group of friends, ranging from 9 to 12 people. It is a professional and reliable company. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves the mountains!
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Not included:
*Please note that accommodations are subject to availability and it may not be possible to book the exact accommodations listed day-by-day in the itinerary
To fully enjoy the hike from Chamonix to Annecy, it’s recommended to have some prior hiking experience. The average daily distance is around 10 km (6.2 mi), but some days can stretch up to 18 km (11.1 mi), so you should be comfortable hiking for 4 to 7 hours a day, with elevation gains ranging from +400 m (1,312 ft) to +1,100 m (3,608 ft) daily. The trail offers both longer and shorter options on certain days, allowing you to adjust the difficulty based on your preferences.
Whether you’re looking for a more relaxed pace or a challenge, there’s flexibility built into the itinerary to cater to different fitness levels and hiking experience.
For more epic adventures in Chamonix, click here!
Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
Clothing:
Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.
Hiking equipment:
Personal equipment:
*In more remote areas, there may be times when you’ll need to use the natural surroundings for bathroom breaks, like digging a cathole so you’ll need a toilet paper kit.
Optional items:
A self-guided tour is an independent exploration without a formal guide leading the way. Instead of being part of a group with a tour leader, you will navigate the tour yourself, using resources provided by the operator. These resources will be sent by email and include access to our smartphone travel app for navigating hikes and viewing local maps (available in English only), a list of your booked accommodations, any included travel vouchers, and all the detailed information you need for a successful trip. If you prefer, we can also provide a printed version of the travel packet for an additional fee.
Group sizes and pricing
Hiking from Chamonix to Annecy can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.
Min. age requirements
If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
To reach Chamonix—the starting point of your hiking adventure from Chamonix to Annecy—is Geneva Airport (GVA), which is about 1.5 hours away. From there, you have several options for getting to your destination, including public transportation. Also, most people take a shuttle service since it’s the most economical option. You can check out Mountain Drop Offs—they provide door-to-door service in their comfy and spacious shuttles. Use the code 57HCHX to get a 5% discount!
Once you arrive, you can begin exploring Chamonix with leisurely walks through the town and surrounding areas.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both medical and travel protection. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner!
Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.
Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!
Deposits
You can secure one of the set dates with a 30% deposit upon booking. The remaining 70% of the trip price is to be paid 90 days prior to departure, at the latest.
Cancellations
Booking fees are non-refundable in all cases. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options:
Basic
Flexible
Super Flexible
After trying bike trips and hiking, I’m delighted! I’m captivated by the trips, the guides, the landscapes… Top-notch organization! And the luggage transport makes all the difference for lighter days.