Le Pontet showcases its natural landscape and walking routes in different ways: at the Marais du Pontet, an interpretation trail winds through a wetland; the walking routes highlight forest, elevation gain and connections between wetlands. There is also Saint-Nicolas Church, whose rare opening times are important when planning a visit. If you are considering Le Pontet as a destination for a stay, you can first choose according to your preferred focus: a walk in the Marais, a hiking route, or architecture and art.
Explore the Marais du Pontet on foot
The Marais du Pontet is a wetland of about 40 hectares, situated at an altitude of 860 to 880 metres. A nature walk along an interpretation trail helps visitors understand the landscape and its biodiversity. Boardwalks and wooden walkways lead through reed beds and wet meadows to areas for exploring. The walk thus combines a stroll through the wetland with a thematic look at the landscape and biodiversity. The visitor trail and its associated facilities are available year-round; conditions may vary seasonally. Take this potential change into account when choosing when to visit if the walk is to be a key part of your stay.
Choose walking routes by their features
The Circuit du Cucheron passes through the forest of Le Pontet and climbs from 859 to 1,228 metres. It is considered suitable for families. The Sentier des Chevaliers de Hüille offers a different type of route: this family-friendly circular walk connects the wetlands of Bourget-en-Huile and Le Pontet. On Stage 2 of the GR®738, the climb from Le Pontet to the Col du Champet runs mostly through forest. The routes can therefore be distinguished by their specific features: the Cucheron is defined by its elevation profile and forest, the Sentier by its circular route linking the two wetlands, and the GR®738 by its mostly forested climb to the Col du Champet. This comparison can help you choose based on the landscape and type of route.
Another landscape character defines the descent to the sources of the Gargoton, followed by the climb to the Col de la Perrière via the Combe de l’Arbet neuf. This section is considered very wild and unspoilt. The route first descends to the sources and then climbs back up to the pass; this described character sets it apart from routes classified mainly by forest and elevation profile.
Saint-Nicolas Church: building history and rare opening times
Saint-Nicolas Church was rebuilt between 1830 and 1833 in the shape of a Latin cross. The cross shape describes its architectural ground plan and adds a specific feature of the reconstruction to the dates. The furnishings also provide a distinctive feature: the altarpiece and wall paintings are considered unique in the canton. However, the church is only very rarely open, for funerals and for the annual Mass in August. If you are planning to visit the interior, check access locally in advance. This allows you to consider the building’s history and art as a cultural highlight without overlooking the rare opening times.
Discover more destinations: Viviers-Du-Lac, Saint-Colomban-Des-Villards, Albertville, Vions, Saint-André, Jongieux, Montagnole, Crest-Voland
For the regional travel overview: Savoie.
