We’re so excited that winter is here! While waiting for the ski season to start in earnest, we are getting out into the mountains for some hikes and snowshoeing. From the picturesque village of Servoz in Arve Valley on the way to Chamonix, there are many well-marked snowshoeing trails to explore for all levels, from family to more experienced hikers.
We recently tried one to the protected Lac Vert, named after the bright green colour of the lake. It is said to be the classic walk of "Chirves" (Servoz inhabitants). It climbs from the river valley up into towards the high mountain pasture chalets of Ayères, under the wall of Fiz.
Departure : Parking at the church in Servoz
Level : Medium
Height difference : 400m / Duration : 2 hours up and 1 hour down
Depending on snow conditions, this can also be done as a winter hike.
As we climb up, we pause and take in the spectacular view of the Mont-Blanc massif. When we reach the beautiful Lac Vert, we take the small trail around it to get photos from every angle. A delicious lunch can be had at the Chalet Restaurant Lac Vert - open year-round on weekends with a wonderful south-facing terrace with views of Mont Blanc, or a cosy fireplace inside. Reservations recommended, call + 33 450 98 01 94 (address: 1600, chemin des Parchets Plaine-Joux, Passy, France). For a shorter hike, drive up to the small ski station of Plaine-Joux and walk 15 min. Or drive up from Servoz to the Parking at La Cote (if conditions allow).
Tips for winter hiking and snowshoes:
- Always check the weather online before you head out into the mountains. You can also call the Office du Tourisme on +33 4 50 47 21 68 or e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
- Make sure you have appropriate clothing and equipment – here’s our suggested list for a winter hike or snowshoes.
- Get a trail tip with description and map for the Servoz hike for only 5CHF – email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. (these make great Christmas gifts too)!
fraiche air is an outdoor club that organises outings to explore our beautiful surroundings in the Jura and Alps. Check out our calendar of activities and give us a try! Upcoming: Family Winter Hike and Christmas Market on Sun 1 December, Powerhike on Wed 4 December, and a Chocolate Walk on Thurs 12 December.
Bio
Yvette Evers grew up camping, hiking and skiing in the Swiss Alps. A Canadian with Dutch roots, her career in international development allowed her to explore mountain areas around the world. Since moving to the Geneva area in 2009 with her husband and two teenage daughters, she also works as a sustainability consultant specialising in tourism.
Yvette is the founder of ‘fraiche air’ - an outdoor club that fills a gap in the market for global locals who are looking for information about outdoor recreation and tourism in English. The outings in small groups provide a wonderful opportunity to discover new activities and join an active community of like-minded sporty friends – powerwalks, hiking, snowshoeing, ski-touring, and family days.
