Hiking in Thollon-les-Memises

Thollon-les-Memises is highly appreciated for hiking thanks to its location between the Montagnes d'Evian and Lake Geneva. From the village, several routes lead to panoramic viewpoints, alpine pastures and trails across the Memises massif. It is an excellent destination for nature holidays in Haute-Savoie.

Panoramic walks for different levels

Depending on the season and your level, you can choose quiet walks, family hikes or more demanding routes higher up in the mountains. Views over Lake Geneva often accompany the outing, making Thollon a sought-after destination for walkers and photographers.

5 well-known hikes around Thollon-les-Memises

1. Circuit de la crete des Memises
   This well-known loop starts near the top gondola station and delivers sweeping views over Lake Geneva and the ridge line. It is generally recommended from spring to early autumn, depending on conditions and gondola opening periods. After the walk, hikers can stop at Les Balcons du Lac at the top of the gondola.
2. Tour du Mont Benand from Thollon-les-Memises
   This outing toward Bernex and the Creusaz area explores the Mont Benand alpine pastures, a well-known UNESCO Chablais Geopark site. Difficulty is usually easy to moderate depending on the chosen starting point, with beautiful views over the Jura, the Memises and Lake Geneva. It works well as a relaxed mountain day or a sporty half-day.
3. The GR5 near Thollon-les-Memises
   The GR5 crosses this region and links the Lake Geneva area with much longer alpine itineraries. For a real multi-day hiking stage, you can stay overnight at the Dent d'Oche Refuge or at Les Chemins du Leman in Novel. It is especially well suited to hikers who enjoy long-distance routes and a more authentic mountain atmosphere.
4. Thollon - Novel - Thollon
   This is best considered a full-day hike with a moderate to fairly demanding level. The route reaches Novel and can also be turned into a two-day outing if you choose to eat and sleep in the valley at Alpage de Neuvaz Dessous. Depending on your loop, you can also combine the outing with a meal stop at Les Balcons du Lac.
5. Tour du Balcon du Leman
   The Balcon du Leman refers to a series of routes overlooking the lake and crossing forests, alpine pastures and open viewpoints. Some stages are long and quite demanding, such as the La Vernaz to Novel section, which is listed as a major hiking day with significant elevation gain. These routes are especially attractive for walkers seeking broad lake views and real Chablais mountain scenery.

Well-located accommodation for nature stays

Our apartments and chalet provide a comfortable base before and after hiking days. This makes it easy to combine nature, comfort, day trips to Evian and a calm stay in a mountain village that remains active throughout the year.