In summer the Les Carroz plateau turns into a base camp for hiking. From the village or the top of the lifts, trails climb towards the pastures, lakes and ridges of the Grand Massif, facing Mont Blanc. The due-south aspect and gentle gradients make it welcoming terrain, from a first family walk to a long day in the mountains.
Where to walk
From the plateau, easy walks lead to the pastures and viewpoints over the Mont Blanc range. Riding the lifts (open in summer), you reach the Saix ridges and the Grand Massif’s high trails faster. Seasoned walkers aim for the lakes and summits of the sector, or cross over to the Désert de Platé, a vast limestone plateau above Flaine. Themed trails and access to the Lac aux Dames round out family outings.
Booking
The trails are free to access. For a guided outing — reading the landscape, wildlife, plants, safety — call on the mountain leaders of the local guides’ office. In high season, the summer-open lifts make balcony routes easier.
Good to know
Season. June to September, once the snow has melted higher up; summer lifts widen the options.
Level. From the plateau (easy, family) to the ridges and lakes (a committing day): something for everyone.
Gear. Walking shoes, water, a windbreaker and sun cream — the plateau is very exposed to the sun.
The Désert de Platé. Above the area, this great limestone pavement is one of the massif’s most unusual landscapes.
Also worth seeing in Les Carroz
Round out summer with canyoning or mountain biking; in winter it’s all about skiing. Back to the destination: Les Carroz.