Exploration of the peaks of Grande Aiguille, Montagne de Mélan, and Cluchette through the picturesque Vançon valley

Access to the Vançon Valley

In your quest to admire the peaks of the Grande Aiguille, the Montagne de Mélan, and the Cluchette, you first need to know how to get there. Located in the picturesque Vançon Valley, access is quite simple: start by reaching Saint-Symphorien. From there, follow the signs for the Vançon Valley. The road is lined with enchanting landscapes that will already give you a taste of the adventure that awaits you!

Details on the difficulty

Before embarking on the ascent, a few points about the difficulty. Prepare for a hike of about 20 km round trip, which is a challenge for the more modest hikers! The paths are varied: you will encounter well-marked trails, but also steeper sections. Being in good physical shape is an advantage to truly enjoy this getaway. Bring your trekking poles to help you on the ascents and descents, because even the most valiant of gourmands sometimes needs a helping hand!

The essential information

Here are some key points to remember to maximize your experience. The duration of the hike is between 6 to 8 hours depending on your pace. The best months for this adventure are from May to September, when the weather is more favorable. Be sure to check the weather conditions before you leave, as even in the middle of summer, a little cool breeze can surprise you! Don’t forget your camera: the panoramas you will encounter are worthy of the most beautiful Instagram posts!

Route to follow

Ready for the route? The departure is from the parking lot of Saint-Symphorien. You will take a trail that will gracefully wind towards the valley. Along the way, admire the geological formations that testify to the history of the Alpine chain – a little nod to nature!
As you climb towards the Grande Aiguille, the panorama before you widens and offers you a breathtaking view of the valley and the Authon gorges. Continue until you reach the Montagne de Mélan, where the landscape becomes even more spectacular. Don’t forget to take a break at the summit to enjoy your sandwich while taking in the breathtaking view.
After that, a small detour to the Cluchette to admire the beauty of the landscape before descending back to your starting point. The return route will descend more directly, allowing you to savor the experience with less effort. A chance to let your mind wander, dreaming of your next hike and the signposts that will encourage you to go ever higher.
With all this in mind, all that’s left is to put on your hiking shoes and embark on this wonderful exploration!