In summer, Flaine opens onto one of the most astonishing landscapes in the Alps: the Désert de Platé, an immense plateau of sculpted limestone above the resort. Between this lunar pavement, the high ridges and the Mont Blanc panorama, hiking in Flaine has a truly mineral signature, a world away from the green pastures of the neighbouring valleys.
Where to walk
From the resort or the top of the Grandes Platières (2,480 m, reached by the summer gondola), you discover the Désert de Platé: a vast pavement of pale rock, streaked and hollowed by erosion, a listed nature reserve. The trails cross this plateau facing Mont Blanc, reach refuges and viewpoints, and cross over to the Grand Massif’s neighbouring sectors. Lower down, gentler walks wind around the bowl.
Booking
The trails are free to access; the summer-open gondola shortens the way to the Grandes Platières. As the Désert de Platé is a fragile karst environment with few surface markers, a guided outing (mountain leader, guides’ office) is invaluable for finding your way and reading its geology.
Good to know
Season. July to September, once the snow has melted on the plateau; the summer gondola eases high-altitude access.
The Désert de Platé. A limestone pavement (lapiaz) in a nature reserve: uneven ground, little shade, few landmarks — caution and a map essential.
Gear. High-cut shoes, plenty of water, a windbreaker and sun protection: altitude and pale rock are highly exposing.
Wildlife. Ibex, marmots and alpine choughs live on the heights: discretion and binoculars rewarded.
Also worth seeing in Flaine
Discover the resort’s art and architecture; in winter it’s all about skiing. Back to the destination: Flaine.