Ascension of the Tête du Parmelan (1832 m) from the parking lot at Bois Brûlé and the Chappuis chalet

Access

To reach the Tête du Parmelan from the parking lot of Bois Brûlé, leave your car in the midst of shimmering nature. The parking is located at about 1160 m altitude, providing a good starting point for adventurers. If you are coming from Annecy, head towards Aviernoz and follow the signs, your GPS might mislead you through this picturesque valley.

Details on the Difficulty

This ascent is of a moderate level, which means that even if you have spent five hours on your couch, you can still consider doing it. Count on about 1h50 to reach the summit via the Grand Montoir. The brave ones who face a few well-placed stairs will be rewarded with a beautiful view of the surrounding landscape (and their own sweat).

Regulations

In terms of regulations, don’t forget to respect the environment: don’t leave your trash lying around, even if placing it next to a rock could create “modern art.” The local wildlife would also appreciate it if you kept a reasonable distance from animals, take a selfie with your four-legged friend at a safe distance!

Essential Information

The route takes you to an impressive altitude of 1832 m, with an ascent that will work your thighs, but most importantly, will reward you with a breathtaking view of the Annecy valley.
Don’t forget your water bottle and something to snack on, as the summit certainly deserves a little gourmet break!

Itinerary

Take the path that winds to the left of the Parmelan cliff, don’t forget to admire the beauty of a high alpine pasture, and if you are lucky, you might even cross the old ice house. Follow the directional signs, the mountaineers on the path are generally friendly and won’t hesitate to give you a hand (or a joke about the weather).

Surroundings

Once you reach the summit, don’t rush down! Take a moment to explore the surroundings. The Bornes massif is filled with magnificent landscapes, perfect for capturing this memorable moment. Consider exploring the hidden hikes, some of which lead to the Hell Cave, which could surprise your friends if you post a photo and tell them you’ve found the way to paradise.