Bellevaux can be discovered on several levels: the Lac de Vallon combines a remarkable story of its origins with a hamlet submerged beneath its waters, while churches, museums and seasonal winter activities reveal other sides of the area.
By the lake and in the mountains
The Lac de Vallon was formed in 1943 as a result of a landslide. The lake and its submerged hamlet are among the outstanding sites of the GĂ©opark du Chablais. Fishing is also possible here: a fishing licence is required, and APPMA rules apply. As regulations may change, check the current rules before fishing.
The Pointe d’Hirmentaz offers a different view of the mountain landscape. The summit is 1,610 metres high and affords a panorama stretching between Lake Geneva and Mont Blanc. An orientation table helps you identify the surrounding mountains. Access to the summit may depend on seasonal conditions.
The “La Source du Brevon” hike leads through the Pététoz forest to the Brevon’s resurgence. After a long underground course, the river emerges directly from the Massif du Roc d’Enfer. Hiking conditions vary with the weather; no specific walking times or difficulty ratings are given.
Culture, churches and local history
The Musée de la Faune offers a chance to discover the wildlife of the Bellevaux mountains. The Maison de la Belle Vallée focuses on something different: it presents the way of life in the past, tools, and the history of Bellevaux and the Lac de Vallon. Nature observation and local history are thus presented as distinct themes.
The churches also offer insight into the history of the area. Notre-Dame de l’Assomption in Bellevaux was consecrated in 1830. Its paintings date from the 19th century: the Piedmontese artists Etienne Gilardi, Francesco Giletto and Paolo Sasonini from Val di Sesia created them in the Sardinian Neoclassical style.
The present-day Chapelle Saint-Bruno was built in 1651 by the Carthusians on the ruins of the former church of the Carthusian monastery. It is the only restored remnant of the Chartreuse Vallon-Bellevaux and is located close to the Lac de Vallon. The Jardin Alpin, an alpine botanical garden, is also located behind the church in the Chef-lieu district. It invites visitors to take a walk with views of the mountains.
Winter activities and guided experiences
The Bellevaux-Hirmentaz ski area has 25 runs, 15 ski lifts and a total of 25 kilometres of pistes. As the facilities may change, check the latest operating information before your trip.
The Plateau des Mouilles offers 20 kilometres of cross-country ski trails for skating and classic techniques during the season; access is subject to a fee. There are also seasonal snowshoeing and hiking trails, as well as a toboggan run. Comparing the winter activities means weighing the runs and ski lifts against a selection of cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and hiking trails, and tobogganing.
Another option is an introduction to the via ferrata in Bellevaux, accompanied by a professional provider. The airy route runs alongside a waterfall, and suitable equipment is provided. The activity is seasonal; check availability before your trip.
Transport links for planning your trip
The Brev’bus connects Bellevaux with Lullin, Vailly and Reyvroz and serves the municipality’s ski areas. Check the latest operating details before your trip. You can then match the activities you want to include in your stay with your own interests in landscapes, history or seasonal activities.
Discover more destinations: L'etale, Thollon, Sallanches, La Côte-D'arbroz, Étrembières, Le Grand-Bornand, Collonges-sous-Salève, La Rivière-Enverse
For the wider travel guide: Haute-Savoie.
