Discover The Abondance valley

Down the valley, Chevenoz is the gateway village, ideally situated between Châtel and the Gavot plateau. The village stretches from 600 to 1,650 metres above sea level and is formed by two large terraces overlooking the Dranse. The gentle slopes are covered with pastures, while forests and clearings complete the landscape.

The Dranse, which flows through Chevenoz, is ideal for white-water activities. The village is also famous for the Chevenoz hydroelectric power station.

You can also visit the Chapelle Saint François de Sales, adding cultural and historical interest to this charming village.

Vacheresse is a peaceful mountain village surrounded by numerous mountain pastures, including Sémy, Bise and Ubine.

It’s an ideal place for hikers, with the easily accessible Lac de Darbon and the authentic Ubine mountain pasture a must. The Cornettes de Bise offer an exceptional setting rich in flora and fauna.

The village offers a number of accommodation options, including the Bise and Ubine refuges on the GR5.

You can also discover Montagne Cafés®, an organic coffee-roasting workshop high above the village.

Another popular destination is the Lac de Fontaine, a pleasant walk away. This small mountain lake is ideal for a relaxing day in the great outdoors.

Backing onto the slopes of the Col du Corbier, the small Alpine village of Bonnevaux lies at the crossroads of the Chablais, Aulps and Abondance valleys. This typical village includes several mountain pastures and traditional farms.

Bonnevaux is home to the Pont de l’Eau Noire hydroelectric power station. Guided tours of this heritage site are organised from time to time.

Hikers can set off from Bonnevaux to reach Mont Ouzon, offering superb panoramic views. The Alpage du Muret, producer of farmhouse ewe’s milk cheeses, is also not to be missed.

Abondance, the former administrative centre of the canton, is a tourist resort renowned for its winter sports. The village is home to a collège and lycée.

Lac des Plagnes, a mountain lake perfect for fishing and picnics, is a popular destination and offers an easy hike with magnificent views over the Abondance valley.

For hikers, the Tour du Mont Chauffé is a circular route around an iconic peak, offering breathtaking views.

For hiking enthusiasts, the Mont de Grange offers a challenging but rewarding climb with spectacular views over the valley. The banks of the Dranse offer an easier trail along the river.

La Chapelle d’Abondance is a charming village, home to a winter sports resort ideal for ski enthusiasts.

In summer, hiking enthusiasts can tackle the Cornettes de Bise, an iconic peak offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Alps.

For a family outing, the hike to Lac d’Arvouin is perfect. This accessible trail leads to a magnificent mountain lake, offering breathtaking scenery and a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for a relaxing day in the great outdoors.

Châtel, famous for its winter sports resort, is a popular destination for tourists all year round. In summer, the hike to the summit of Morclan offers 360° panoramic views of the majestic Dents du Midi and Mont Blanc.

For a cross-border adventure, the Pas de Morgins trail leads hikers into Switzerland, offering varied and picturesque scenery. For a more leisurely stroll, Lac de Vonnes, close to the centre of Châtel, is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area.