Rising majestically above Lake Annecy, the peaks of Mont Baron (1,299m) and Mont Veyrier (1,291m) set the stage for a hike that strikes the perfect balance between challenge and reward. Though the Mont Veyrier – Mont Baron loop is relatively short, it packs in plenty of adventure. As you climb through lush forests, traverse rocky paths—including a thrilling ridge walk—and pause at breathtaking lookout points, you’ll experience the true essence of hiking in the French Alps.
Let’s go!
Location: Approximate Starting point 45.908321, 6.172575
Cost: Free
Lenght: ~5.11 km according to my sports watch, with a 707m total ascent
How to get there: By car
Other mountain hiking routes in France: Petit Le Petit Montrond
This stop is part of our French Alps travel itinerary
Mont Baron & Mont Veyrier Hike Leads Through the Forest
The incline of the Mont Baron & Mont Veyrier hike begins with a gentle challenge, drawing us into the heart of the forest. The dirt path snakes ahead, shaded by a canopy of towering trees. The lower branches of evergreens stretch out like skeletal arms, their bare and pointy limbs adding an eerie charm to the surroundings. Yet, the scene is far from gloomy because the bright green leaves of deciduous trees brighten up the space.
Beneath Your feet, the trail is dotted with exposed roots and occasional rocks jutting out of the earth. It keeps you mindful of each step, but it doesn’t diminish the scenery. Locals, however, seem unfazed by the challenge—not just climbing Mont Baron, but running up it! As I huff and puff my way along, many of them breeze past us at what feels like the speed of light. I can’t help but admire their endurance and determination!
Other hikers descending to complete their Mont Baron & Mont Veyrier hike greet you with a warm bonjour. It’s a simple yet heartwarming gesture that adds to the friendly atmosphere on the trail. By the way, exchanging greetings when you pass someone coming from the opposite direction is the polite thing to do on a mountain path—so don’t be shy, join in with your own cheerful bonjour!
Here and there, clusters of moss-covered troll rocks punctuate the path, their shapes cloaked in vibrant green moss, like ancient guardians watching over the forest. Mountains have long been the backdrop of myths and legends, and these whimsical formations only enhance the trail’s enchanted atmosphere.
We continue our upward journey toward the peaks of Mont Baron & Mont Veyrier, guided by the trail markers painted on the trees. Orientation is straightforward for the most part, as the path rarely branches off. However, there are a few spots where the trail markers play a game of hide-and-seek.
As we press on, the trail begins to reveal its more challenging side, morphing into a labyrinth of tangled roots and uneven rocks. This section requires both effort and focus—you’ll break a sweat and need to pay close attention to your footing to avoid slipping. But rest assured, it’s all part of the adventure and entirely manageable!
The Breathtaking Views of Lake Annecy from Mont Baron – Mont Veyrier Loop
At last, the forest parts to reveal the first glimpse of what lies beyond: a sliver of Lake Annecy. Through a natural window in the trees, you catch sight of a corner of shimmering blue water, framed by a tapestry of light-colored houses and rooftops. These scatter into the distance, softening into smoky blues where the sky melts into the horizon.
Though this initial view doesn’t yet reveal the full splendor of the Mont Baron & Mont Veyrier hike, it’s a tantalizing promise of the breathtaking vistas ahead. Energized by this glimpse of what’s to come, we press onward.
Deeper into the forest, the trail leads us to an open clearing, thoughtfully equipped with benches—perfectly placed for taking in the magnificent panorama. Here, Lake Annecy stretches before us in all its glory, a vast expanse of sapphire blue punctuated by tiny white yachts drifting leisurely on its surface. Beyond the lake, misty mountains rise, their soft, blurred outlines blending seamlessly with the clouds. Below, between the clusters of houses in the village, streets weave like veins, tying the scene together in intricate patterns.
As you take it all in, one word of caution: stay mindful of the edge. The only thing separating you from a steep drop are some modest bushes.
After this, there are plenty more lookout spots, each offering a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape. My favorite, however, is the one where a towering cliff wall rises on our left, adding a dramatic touch to the scene.
When we reach the Veyrier peak, we discover that it doesn’t offer much open space for our well-deserved lunch, so we press on to Mont Baron instead. Thankfully, it’s not far.
Walking By The Edge (Literally)
And just when you think this hike couldn’t get any more thrilling, we come across the Ridge Trail. Ahead of us, a narrow rock path stretches right along the mountain’s edge. Oh, it’s both breathtaking and exhilarating, with a sheer drop on one side and sweeping views that stretch endlessly below.
We’ve Conquered the Mont Baron Peak
At the Mont Baron peak, a perfect spot for our picnic awaits. Here, nature has created a series of natural rock stairs, which have become ideal makeshift benches. Already, many hikers who’ve conquered Mont Baron before us are seated, enjoying their lunch at the edge of the cliff.
Naturally, we join in. As I’ve said before—and will say again—there’s nothing quite like savoring a French baguette on top of a French mountain. Bon appétit !
From here, the trail begins its descent, winding down through the forest back to our starting point. What an adventure the climb of Mont Baron & Mont Veyrier has been!
When I went on my first hike, I was surprised to find that most trails seem to take you through dense forests until you finally reach the peak. These days, I’ve come to expect that. So when a trail comes with so many beautiful lookout spots, especially ones that offer views of the lake, it feels like a jackpot. What makes it even better is that the hike doesn’t take up the whole day—leaving you plenty of time to explore more of France once you’re down. And although the trail was challenging at points, I was able to do it without the hiking poles that I don’t own. Just be mindful of all the roots and rocks below your feet!
What You Need to Know About Mont Baron & Mont Veyrier Hike
The route we followed when Hiking Mont Baron – Mont Veyrier
~5.11 km with the total ascent of 707m according to my sports watch
Are there any amenities on the Mont Baron and Mont Veyrier trail?
The hiking trail is market, however there are no cafes or shops along the hiking route, we did not saw any toilets either. So come prepared.
View full French Alps trip itinerary