Ruffieux offers several different highlights for a stay: a hike on Mont Clergeon, nature-watching in the Chautagne State Forest, and the Caveau de Chautagne with its Savoie wines. A cycling climb to Col du Clergeon also starts in Ruffieux.
Hikes and waypoints
The hike up Mont Clergeon can be reached from Ruffieux via the RD55. Numerous signs and yellow markers indicate the trail. In good weather, the summit offers a 360° panorama with views of Mont Blanc. Weather matters at this viewpoint: if the panoramic view is important to your outing, take the conditions on the day into account.
The Grande Cuve site is reachable after one kilometre on the route from Ruffieux. It lies at an altitude of 1,000 m and has an information panel. The old charcoal kiln adds a touch of history to the route, which passes by it on the way to Mont Clergeon. Between 1943 and 1945, the forestry service used the kiln to sell charcoal and fuel gas-powered vehicles. The kiln therefore adds an insight into its historical use to the hike’s landscape setting.
Cycling to Col du Clergeon
The cycling climb to Col du Clergeon starts in Ruffieux and follows the D55. The 8 km route climbs from the Chautagne plain to the 979 m summit. On the cycling ascent, the distance and elevation are clearly defined; on the Mont Clergeon trail, the focus is on the markers and the weather-dependent views. Weather and surface conditions can vary during the cycling climb. Check conditions before setting out.
Nature and a regional hiking trail
The Chautagne State Forest lies within the municipalities of Chindrieux, Ruffieux, Vions and Serrières-en-Chautagne. It offers opportunities for walks to observe beavers and amphibians. The state forest is accessible to all groups of people; the forest roads are closed to traffic. Check local conditions before visiting. Nature-watching thus offers a distinct focus alongside activities centred on summits and routes.
As a regional route, the GR65 Way of St James passes through Chautagne. One 22 km stage runs from the heights of Seyssel to Chanaz. The GR65 broadens the choice beyond the Mont Clergeon hike accessible from Ruffieux.
Wine at the Caveau de Chautagne
The Caveau de Chautagne in Ruffieux has been offering wines from Savoie since 1952. A tasting of various cuvées takes place at the end of the visit. You can also visit the sensory wine trail “L’Éveil des Sens.” This adds a distinct wine-focused highlight to the hiking and nature activities.
Discover more destinations: Saint-Genix-sur-Guiers, Saint-André, Bozel, Apremont, Saint-Oyen, Bourg-Saint-Maurice, Hauteluce, Viviers-Du-Lac
For the broader travel overview: Savoie.
