Lac de Darbon via the 3 passes

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  • Lake of Darbon
  • Lake of Darbon
  • Mouflon, wild fauna in the valley of Abondance
    Vacheresse

    A hike of medium difficulty, which will allow you to cross the authentic mountain pastures of the Chablais and to discover the Darbon lake, nestled under the beautiful peaks which surround it.

    Starting from the Chalet de Bise, the Lac de Darbon hike is an invitation to discover the wide open spaces of the mountains.

    You will first cross the alpine pastures of Bise, a Natura 2000 listed site and emblematic of the UNESCO Chablais Global Geopark.

    You will cross 3 passes during your walk.

    First, you’ll climb to the Col de Bise (1915 m), where you’ll enjoy a magnificent panorama of Lake Geneva, the Dent du Vélan, Lake Neuteu below, the tête de Charousse ridge to your right and the Pointe de Pavis cliffs to your left.

    You will then reach the Col de Pavis (1944 m) and the Lac de Darbon at an altitude of 1813 metres, an ideal spot for a picnic.

    Finally, you will reach your last pass, the Col de Floray (1940 m).
    A steep descent takes you back to the chalets de Bise.

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    Further information

    Whatever your hike, remember to take good walking shoes, and in your backpack, cereal bars, sufficient water, sunglasses, sunscreen, a small first aid kit, as well as clothes adapted to your outing depending on the season and the weather forecast.

    Services & Equipment

    • Car park
    • Free car park
    • Parking
    • Pets welcome

    Customer base

    • Niveau orange - assez difficile-en

    Opening

    From 01/06 to 15/10.
    Accessible except during snow and depending on weather conditions.
    Please check with the Tourist Office for the latest information on access conditions. This route is usually suitable for strong walkers during spring, summer, and autumn, except in adverse weather.

    Animals

    Animaux : Accepted

    Dogs must be kept on a leash because of the presence of herds and wildlife, Natura 2000 reserve and hunting reserve.

    Prices

    Free access.

    Location

    Parking des Chalets de Bise
    74360 Vacheresse

    From Thonon-les-Bains, follow the direction of the Valley of Abondance, Châtel. Enter Vacheresse and take the direction of Bise-Ubine, then Bise. Park at the Bise parking lot near the refuge.

    Characteristics :

    • Mountain location
    • Waterside
    • Lakeside or by stretch of water