Lac Tavaneuse Abondance AutumnLac Tavaneuse Abondance Autumn
©Lac Tavaneuse Abondance Autumn |Mathilde Pruvot

Discover The Abondance valley

The Abondance valley is an ideal destination for nature lovers, hikers and winter sports enthusiasts. With its six picturesque communes and majestic mountains, it offers an idyllic setting for vacations with family and friends.

The Abondance Valley: A natural gem in the French Chablais region

The Vallée d’Abondance, also known as the Val d’Abondance, is a picturesque region in the French Chablais. This small natural region is located in the Haute-Savoie department of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. It stretches for around 25 km, from Chevenoz to Châtel, and continues along the banks of the Dranse.

The Abondance valley is located in the French Pre-Alps, in the Haut-Chablais region. It is mainly formed by the upper reaches of the Dranse and the surrounding mountains. Notable peaks include the Cornettes de Bise (2,432 m) and Mont de Grange (2,432 m). The valley was historically defined when the priory was founded in 1108.

The must-sees

Chevenoz

Downstream from the Abondance valley, Chevenoz is the gateway village, ideally situated between Châtel and the Gavot plateau. The village stretches from 600 to 1,650 meters 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

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

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

The village offers several accommodation options, including the Bise and Ubine refuges on the GR5.

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

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

Bonnevaux

Backing onto the slopes of the Col du Corbier, the small Alpine village of Bonnevaux lies at the crossroads of the Chablais tourist valleys, the Vallée d’Aulps and the Vallée d’Abondance. 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 organized 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

Abondance, formerly the administrative center of the canton, is a tourist resort renowned for its winter sports. The village is home to a secondary school.

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 hiking enthusiasts, the Tour du Mont Chauffé is a circular route around an iconic summit, offering breathtaking panoramas.

For hiking enthusiasts, Mont de Grange offers a demanding 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

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 summit 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 out in nature.

Châtel

Châtel, famous for its winter sports resort, is a popular destination for tourists all year round. In summer, a 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 landscapes. For a more leisurely stroll, Lac de Vonnes, close to the center of Châtel, is perfect for relaxing and enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding area.

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