Genevois
Between the Rhone and the Pre-Alps
Geneva's "hinterland" is dominated by the Salève and the Vuache; two imposing limestone mountains that form a harmonious counterpoint to the woods, meadows, fields and orchards which cover the hills and dales to the east of the mighty Rhone.
Towering above Geneva, the imposing mass of Le Salève is traversed by the superbly panoramic "Route des Crêtes". With views stretching in all directions, there are few better places from which to observe the dramatic complexity of the surrounding countryside. To the south and west of Mont Salève, the Rivers Rhone, Usses, Fier and Chéran meander around the fields, farms and fortified houses of the "granary" of Haute Savoie, home to the area's characteristic white wine, Roussette.
The La Thuile - Le Plan Balcony Route
District: La Thuile
Region: Genevois Haut-Savoyard
Road access and parking: Annecy - Plan du Salève 34 km.
From Annecy, follow the N1201 to Pringy/Cruseilles, and then take the N201 to Cruseilles. At the roundabout in Cruseilles, turn right to follow the D27 for a few metres, and then turn left onto the D41A to Mont Salève.
Park at the junction between the D41 and the road to La Thuile.
Total time, not including rest stops: 2hrs
Maps: IGN Top 25 n° 3430 OT Mont-Salève Saint-Julien-en-Genevois Annemasse
Start height: 1158 m
Highest point: 1325 m
Height difference: 160 m
Type of itinerary: (circuit, round trip): circuit
Best season: from spring to summer, when snow free
Description:
Mont Salève started to attract visitors, scientists and artists from Geneva at the end of the 17th century. Thanks to the electric train (now dismantled), the cable car and, finally, the road, the mountain was accessible to everyone. It became a hugely popular leisure attraction and people even began rock climbing on its precipitous flanks. As well as offering unsurpassable views of Geneva, the lake, Mont Blanc and Lake Annecy, Mont Salève is also a nature reserve whose limestone and flint soils nurture an exceptional variety of plants, including Mediterranean, Alpine, heathland and wetland species.
This walk takes you through the ancient Pomier meadows, which still provide exceptional grazing for local herds. Follow the wide, rocky track and go into the forest. After 150 m, turn right to follow the extremely panoramic footpath.
