Walking route
Plateau du Parmelan.
Plateau du Parmelan.
This walk introduces you to the Plateau du Parmelan, an impressive landscape with its typical Lapiaz. This labyrinth of deep gorges and crevices was formed by water erosion in the limestone. The Grotte de l’Enfer and the impressive La Grande Glacière are also examples of this. In clear weather, the view of the Mont Blanc and the Aravis Massif is just as impressive.
Distance: 7 km.
Time: 3h00.
Grade: Moderate.
Type: Circular.
Gps Track: Yes.
Route description: Yes.
Wheelchair: Not suitable.
Dog: Allowed on leach.
Height gain: 315 meter.
Trail: 100% unpaved.
Marking: Signposts and yellow arrows on the plateau.
Hiking shoes recommended.
Grotte de l’Enfer en La Grande Glacière.
From the Chalet De L’Anglettaz you climb along alpine meadows to the Crêt Des Outalays. On a beautiful mountain path between the rugged rock formations you go in the direction of the Plateau du Parmelan. Typical of this impressive landscape are the Lapiaz, deep gorges and cracks in the limestone. This walk goes a bit on the plateau before returning to the Grotte de L’Enfer. If desired, you can continue through the labyrinth of the lapiaz to the Chalet Camille Dunant. Pay close attention to the wooden posts with yellow arrows because you can quickly get lost in this landscape. In clear weather you still have a fantastic view of the Mont Blanc and Aravis Massif. After your visit to the plateau you soon arrive at the impressive Grotte de L’Enfer. This is also a beautiful example of the erosion in the limestone. From the cave you descend along limestone formations to the Grande Glacière, a natural ice cave. From the cave you continue to the alpine pastures of Anglettaz and the starting point.
Download PDF for route description and map.
Some caution is required on the plateau as some of the crevices and cracks are very deep and it is easy to lose your way.
Never undertake this walk when there is still snow on the plateau.
Due to its depth and the presence of ice, exploring the Grande Glacière is strongly discouraged without the necessary equipment.
POI 1 - Plateau du Parmelan.
The Plateau du Parmelan is a spectacular limestone plateau known for its rugged, karst landscape with deep crevasses, caves and impressive views of the Aravis chain and Mont Blanc.
POI 2 - Grotte de l'Enfer.
The Grotte de l'Enfer is a remarkable natural formation in the Parmelan massif. Also known as the "Grotto dell'Enfer", this cave is distinguished by an impressive arch that hangs over a deep gorge, formed by years of erosion.
POI 3 - La Grande Glacière.
La Grande Glacière is a natural ice cave near the Chalet de l'Anglettaz. This glacier, with a depth of about 130 metres, contains both annually formed ice and older ice layers that have built up over decades.
Walks Haute Savoie.
