In summer, Châtel opens a vast hiking area astride the border. From the village or the top of the lifts, the trails climb towards the pastures, the passes that cross into Switzerland and the Chablais summits. Between meadows, herds of Abondance cattle and cross-border panoramas, it’s varied hiking, from a family lake loop to a long high-altitude day.
Where to walk
In the village, Lake Vonnes offers an easy family walk. Climbing to Super-Châtel or Pré-la-Joux (summer-open lifts), you reach the pastures and the border passes towards Morgins and the Swiss Val d’Illiez. Seasoned walkers aim for the sector’s summits (Linga, the nearby Cornettes de Bise) and the long Portes du Soleil links. The pasture farms, where Abondance cheese is made, punctuate the routes.
Booking
The trails are free to access; the summer-open lifts shorten access to the ridges. For a guided outing — wildlife, plants, border passes — call on the area’s mountain leaders.
Good to know
Season. June to September; the summer lifts ease balcony routes.
Level. From the Lake Vonnes loop (easy) to the passes and summits (a committing day): for everyone.
The border. Several trails cross into Switzerland: bring ID.
Gear. Walking shoes, water, a windbreaker; mountain weather changes fast.
Also worth seeing in Châtel
Round out summer with mountain biking and the village and its food; in winter it’s all about skiing. Back to the destination: Châtel.