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 Le Lavancher, the Arveyron springs trail descends to the point where the glacier transforms into a stream. Shaded, short, and accessible to all-terrain strollers. Allow 1 hour round trip, ideal for children aged 3 to 8. Bonus: the mini-canyon where you can enjoy a snack by the water.
2. The Little North Balcony — easy high-altitude trail
The Petit Balcon Nord is a trail that runs along the valley floor, facing Mont Blanc. It can be accessed directly from Le Lavancher and followed for two or three hours without any steep climbs, stopping at the viewpoints. It's ideal for a half-day hike, 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 hikers who love history. The Chemin des Diligences (Stagecoach Trail) follows the old postal route that connected Chamonix to Vallorcine. Enjoy a wooded atmosphere, a moderate elevation gain, and beautiful views of the valley. Allow 3 to 4 hours round trip depending on the chosen route. Access from Vallorcine 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, 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. The Aiguillette des Posettes, at 2,201 meters, can be climbed from Le Tour or from 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
A true classic. From La Flégère (accessible by gondola from Les Praz, ten minutes from Le Lavancher), you can reach Lac Blanc , at 2,352 meters, in 2 to 3 hours—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 around 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 refuge, which is often booked solid.
To go further — mountain huts, glaciers, crossings
Experienced hikers can continue on to the high-altitude mountain huts : Albert 1er Hut, Couvercle Hut, and Cosmiques Hut. For glacier excursions (Vallée Blanche, Argentière Glacier), hiring a high-mountain guide is essential—the Compagnie des Guides de Chamonix , the oldest in the world, offers outings for all levels. The Chamonix Tourist Office keeps up-to-date information on 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.
