What to do around La Clusaz in summer? A complete guide to the best activities and must-see attractions

Nestled in the heart of the Aravis Mountains in Haute-Savoie, La Clusaz is the perfect base from which to explore Lake Annecy, the most beautiful hikes in the Aravis Massif, charming Alpine villages and some of the region's most iconic attractions.

Locals often joke that people from La Clusaz rarely leave the valley — not because they can't, but because it is simply too beautiful. Yet when summer arrives and the days grow longer, even the most devoted mountain lovers feel the urge to discover what lies beyond the next ridge.

And that is one of the great pleasures of a summer holiday in the Alps. A short drive can lead to an entirely new landscape: winding mountain roads crossing scenic passes, spectacular viewpoints around every corner, and a different adventure waiting each day. From La Clusaz, simply cross the Aravis Pass to reach the elegant streets of Megève or the legendary Chamonix Valley beneath Mont Blanc. Head over the Colombière Pass and you will discover a wilder side of the Alps, where alpine pastures, dramatic limestone cliffs and unspoilt mountain villages create a completely different atmosphere.

In less than an hour, you can go from the green pastures of La Clusaz to the turquoise waters of Lake Annecy, browse a traditional Savoyard market, visit a medieval castle overlooking the lake or admire the highest peaks in the Alps. It is this exceptional location, right in the heart of Haute-Savoie, that makes La Clusaz such an ideal base for exploring the region.

In this guide, we share some of our favourite day trips and activities around La Clusaz: the finest hikes in the Aravis Mountains, the highlights of Lake Annecy and the Alpine villages that are well worth a visit.

When people think of the Aravis, many immediately picture the famous Aravis Pass. A regular feature of the Tour de France and a favourite among cyclists and motorcyclists alike, it offers one of the most breathtaking views of Mont Blanc. Yet beyond this iconic mountain pass lies an entire mountain range waiting to be explored, one trail at a time.

Nestled between Lake Annecy and the Mont Blanc Massif, the Aravis Mountains are one of the hidden gems of the French Alps. Crowned by Pointe Percée, their highest peak at 2,750 metres, this dramatic limestone range stretches across alpine pastures, forests and green valleys, creating some of the region's most striking landscapes.

Of course, La Clusaz itself is home to countless hiking trails. But summer is also the perfect time to look beyond the resort and discover the wider Aravis Massif. From mountain lakes and panoramic summits to preserved alpine meadows and family-friendly walks, the variety of landscapes is remarkable and invites visitors to lace up their hiking boots and explore.

Here are some of our favourite routes for discovering the beauty and diversity of this exceptional mountain region.
 

• La Tournette, the iconic peak overlooking Lake Annecy

Rising to 2,351 metres, La Tournette is undoubtedly one of the most iconic summits in Haute-Savoie. From the top, hikers are rewarded with spectacular views over Lake Annecy, the Aravis Mountains, Mont Blanc and the Bauges Massif.

This hike is best suited to experienced walkers and those who enjoy a significant elevation gain. The effort is demanding, but the reward is well worth it: one of the most impressive 360-degree panoramas in the entire region.
 

• Pointe Percée, the highest summit in the Aravis

No guide to the finest hikes in the Aravis would be complete without Pointe Percée. At 2,750 metres, it is both the highest point in the massif and one of its most iconic peaks.

Here, the scenery changes dramatically. Alpine meadows gradually give way to a rugged mineral landscape where rock dominates the horizon. There are no glaciers or permanent snowfields, but the atmosphere is undeniably alpine, giving this ascent a unique character.

The views from the summit more than justify the effort required to reach it. However, this is not a hike for families with young children or for anyone uncomfortable with exposure and heights. Some sections require the use of your hands, and less experienced hikers may prefer to use a rope on certain exposed passages.

Challenging, demanding and unforgettable, Pointe Percée is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful summits in the Aravis Mountains.

• Lake Peyre, a family-friendly hike with stunning Aravis views

Starting from the Colombière Pass, this hike is the perfect opportunity to discover a different side of the Aravis after crossing the Grand-Bornand Valley.

The trail leads to Lake Peyre, a beautiful alpine lake offering outstanding views across the entire Aravis mountain range. With a bit of luck, you may spot marmots or even ibex roaming the surrounding slopes.

While the hike involves just over 400 metres of elevation gain, it remains accessible to most walkers. Allow around 1 hour 30 minutes to cover the 3-kilometre ascent from the pass to the lake.

It is an excellent family outing, especially when combined with a picnic beside the water in this peaceful mountain setting.
 

• Lake Mont Charvin, a hidden gem in the Aravis

Situated at almost 2,000 metres above sea level, Lake Mont Charvin is one of the most beautiful natural mountain lakes in the Aravis Massif.

Nestled within a spectacular natural cirque at the foot of Mont Charvin, this alpine lake offers an authentic mountain experience. The surrounding environment remains remarkably well preserved, and the hike provides opportunities to observe a rich variety of wildlife and alpine flora.

Less visited than some of the region's better-known destinations, Lake Mont Charvin is particularly appealing to those seeking unspoilt nature, tranquillity and wide open spaces.

More accessible hiking ideas

The Aravis Mountains are also home to a wide range of easier routes, perfect for enjoying the beauty of the Alps without tackling the highest peaks.

• Beauregard Plateau – Vast alpine pastures, exceptional views of the Aravis range and family-friendly walking trails.
• Glières Plateau – A unique destination combining nature, history and sweeping mountain panoramas.
• Col des Annes – An easy walk through the alpine meadows above Le Grand-Bornand, famous for their traditional mountain chalets.
• Le Sulens – An accessible summit offering spectacular 360-degree views over the Aravis Mountains, Mont Blanc and the Bauges Massif.

Whatever your level of experience, the Aravis offer countless opportunities to discover an authentic and beautifully preserved mountain landscape where nature remains at the heart of every adventure.

After spending a few hours hiking in the Aravis Mountains, it is hard to resist the appeal of Lake Annecy. In fact, one of the great advantages of staying in La Clusaz is being able to enjoy the cool mountain air in the morning and, just a few hours later, take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of the lake.

Often described as Europe's purest lake, Lake Annecy is a must-see during your stay. Whether you want to cool off after a hike, soothe tired legs after a mountain bike ride, or simply spend a relaxing afternoon by the water, it offers a striking contrast to the surrounding mountain scenery.

Just 45 minutes from La Clusaz, the lake is home to countless water activities, beautiful beaches and charming lakeside villages that are well worth exploring.
 

Paddleboarding, Swimming and Water Sports

The turquoise waters of Lake Annecy provide the perfect setting for:

• Paddleboarding
• Kayaking
• Pedal boating
• Sailing
• Swimming

Cycling enthusiasts will also appreciate the famous cycle path that circles the lake. In fact, cycling around Lake Annecy deserves an article of its own, as it has become one of the region's most iconic rides.
 

Our favourite beaches

As locals from the Aravis Mountains, we tend to favour the eastern shore of the lake. Not only is it easier to reach from La Clusaz, but it also offers some of the most beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
 

• Menthon-Saint-Bernard beach

This is the beach we most often recommend to visitors looking for a quick and easy escape to the lake.

After passing through the charming village of Menthon-Saint-Bernard and admiring its fairytale castle overlooking the water, you can choose between a stroll around the small harbour or a relaxing break on the spacious public beach.

With its large shaded lawns and easy access to the water, it is the perfect place to cool off after a morning in the mountains.
 

• Angon Beach, Talloires

This is probably our favourite beach on Lake Annecy.

It does require an extra ten minutes' drive beyond Talloires, but the reward is more than worth it. Here, the scenery is exceptional, with the Bauges Mountains reflected in the lake's calm waters and a more peaceful atmosphere than many of the busier beaches around the lake.

A perfect spot for swimming, reading and simply enjoying the view.
 

• La Brune Beach, Veyrier-du-Lac

We love La Brune as much for its setting as for its relaxed atmosphere.

Its small sandy area is particularly popular with families, while adults appreciate the laid-back lakeside vibe. After a swim, we often extend the experience with lunch or drinks on the terrace of Le Chalet de la Brune. Whether you're sharing a local charcuterie board, enjoying a Spritz or tasting a craft beer from Haute-Savoie, the lake views provide the perfect backdrop.

Sometimes, the best summer days in the Aravis begin on a mountain trail and end with your feet in the waters of Lake Annecy.

After exploring mountain peaks, alpine lakes and wide-open landscapes, take some time to experience a more authentic side of the Aravis region.

Every Saturday morning, the centre of Thônes hosts one of the most popular markets in Haute-Savoie. With around 7,000 residents, Thônes is often considered the "capital" of the Aravis. This is where locals come to shop, meet their favourite producers, enjoy a coffee on a terrace or simply catch up on the latest news from the valley.

Far removed from souvenir shops and tourist attractions, the Thônes market is first and foremost a genuine local gathering place. The stalls are filled with regional specialities: farmhouse Reblochon cheese, Tomme de Savoie, artisan charcuterie, mountain honey, seasonal fruits and vegetables, rustic breads, homemade jams, génépi liqueur and locally crafted products.

It is the perfect place to stock up on fresh ingredients, support local producers and discover the rich culinary heritage of the Aravis. Cheese lovers, in particular, should not miss the opportunity to taste authentic farmhouse Reblochon, the emblematic cheese of the Thônes Valley.

Take your time wandering through the town's streets, chatting with local producers and soaking up the friendly atmosphere that makes Savoyard markets so special.

It is a wonderful way to experience the Aravis from a different perspective, following the rhythm of those who call these mountains home all year round.

While the Aravis Mountains offer more than enough to fill a holiday, it would be a shame not to take advantage of La Clusaz's exceptional location to explore some of Haute-Savoie's most iconic destinations. Within less than an hour's drive, you'll find a variety of places that are perfect for a memorable day out.
 

• Annecy, the Venice of the Alps

Just 45 minutes from La Clusaz, Annecy is an excursion not to be missed.

Begin your visit by wandering through the cobbled streets of the old town, following the flower-lined canals that have earned Annecy its nickname, the "Venice of the Alps". Stroll along the waterfront, visit the iconic Palais de l'Île, enjoy a drink on one of the many terraces and finish your day beside the lake.

Combining history, shopping, gastronomy and lakeside relaxation, Annecy appeals equally to couples, families and anyone looking to experience the charm of Haute-Savoie.
 

• Megève, alpine elegance

Cross the Aravis Pass and you'll reach Megève in around an hour.

Centred around its charming main square and iconic church, Megève blends Alpine heritage with designer boutiques, art galleries, stylish restaurants and lively café terraces. Few mountain villages offer such a concentration of beautiful addresses within such an intimate and elegant setting.

Developed in the early 20th century under the vision of Baroness Noémie de Rothschild, Megève has become one of the Alps' most prestigious resorts while retaining the authentic character of a traditional Savoyard village.
 

• Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, beneath the roof of Europe

At the foot of Mont Blanc, the world's highest peak in Western Europe, Chamonix offers a unique atmosphere and some of the most spectacular scenery in the Alps.

For a perfect day trip, we recommend:

• Taking the cable car to the Aiguille du Midi and admiring the glaciers of the Mont Blanc Massif.
• Exploring the lively streets of Chamonix town centre.
• Enjoying lunch on a terrace with breathtaking mountain views.
• Riding the Montenvers railway to discover the famous Mer de Glace glacier.

This unforgettable excursion perfectly complements your exploration of the Aravis and offers a chance to experience the grandeur of the high mountains up close.

Whether you choose Annecy, Megève or Chamonix, each destination reveals a different side of Haute-Savoie and is well worth a day of exploration during your stay in La Clusaz.

All that's left to do is plan your adventures... or simply follow your inspiration each day. After all, one of the greatest pleasures of a holiday in La Clusaz is being able to choose every morning between a mountain summit, an alpine lake, a charming village or a sunny terrace.

The entire ATHERAC Location team is always happy to share local recommendations and insider tips to help you make the most of your stay in the Aravis Mountains.

We look forward to welcoming you to La Clusaz soon !