4.3
(209)
1,102
riders
82
rides
Mountain biking around Féternes offers diverse terrain across the Gavot plateau in Haute-Savoie, France. The region is characterized by a mix of plateaus and mountains, providing varied elevations and landscapes for exploration. Riders can experience panoramic views encompassing Lake Geneva and Mont Blanc, with routes often traversing forests and ancient low walls. This area provides both technical singletrack and challenging descents, making it suitable for a range of mountain biking abilities.
Last updated: October 13, 2026
4.3
(4)
25
riders
13.2km
01:00
200m
210m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.7
(3)
24
riders
46.6km
04:27
1,300m
1,300m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.

4.8
(4)
29
riders
34.4km
03:35
1,140m
1,140m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4.5
(2)
12
riders
18.2km
01:25
250m
250m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary.
5.0
(1)
14
riders
35.4km
03:36
1,060m
1,060m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
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This chapel, dedicated to Saint Bruno, founder of the Carthusian Order, was built on the remains of the former convent church of the Carthusian monastery of Sainte-Marie de Vallon[1]. In 1543, the Carthusians of Vallon were forced to leave their monastery, which was dismantled[1]. When they regained possession of their property in 1607, they found only ruins of the old charterhouse. Only a few sections of the walls remained standing[1]. After building their fortified house in Génicot[2] on the right bank of the Brevon (now on the lake), they erected a chapel in the part of the old charterhouse, in homage to Saint Bruno and in memory of the monks who preceded them. Since the walls of the choir of their former convent church and those of the sacristy had not collapsed, a nave surmounted by a wooden vault was built in 1651[3]. In 1793, it was sold as national property[3]. Abandoned by its new owners, it then passed to the Gougain family, along with the entire property known as "La chèvre"[1]. In 1833, the Carthusians returned to work repairing the walls and vault, redoing the roof, and installing a bell tower. Bishop Pierre-Joseph Rey inaugurated the renovated chapel during the summer of 1836[3]. It received various donations, including from Converset David François Marie[citation needed]. In 1847, it was finally transferred to the churchyard[1]. Processions would go there to pray for rain or good weather; but Bishop Louis Rendu banned these events in 1852[citation needed]. In 1855, it was burned to the ground. A violent wind blew as the Abbey building burned and burning embers set it alight in turn[1]. Nothing new remained except the walls. M Chappaz undertook a collection throughout the parish and had repairs carried out during 1856: plaster vault, roof, bell tower, gallery, floor, altar[3]. On July 11, 1857, the renovated chapel was blessed.
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The lake is 900 m long and covers an area of 15 hectares. The northwest shore is marked by a small peninsula, a sign of the advance of the landslide that created the lake. The eastern and western shores are relatively steep, while the northern and southern shores form gentle slopes. The lake was initially named "Lac de Chauronde"[note 1 by Léon Moret[3] in reference to the town of Chauronde where the landslide blocked the Brevon Valley. The name "Lac de Vallon" was finally defined by Bernard Dussart[2] in reference to the name of the valley, Vallon.
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Here are some tour suggestions.
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Beautifully situated lake and great mountain panorama.
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Féternes offers a wide selection of mountain bike trails, with over 80 routes available for exploration. These trails cater to various skill levels, from easy loops to challenging mountain paths.
Mountain biking around Féternes features diverse terrain across the Gavot plateau in Haute-Savoie. You'll encounter a mix of plateaus and mountains, offering varied elevations and landscapes. Trails often traverse forests and ancient low walls, providing both technical singletrack and challenging descents with breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Geneva and Mont Blanc.
Yes, Féternes has options for beginners. There are 8 easy mountain bike routes available. An example is the Lake Beunaz – View of Lake Leman loop from Saint-Paul-en-Chablais, an 8.2-mile (13.1 km) trail that offers panoramic views of Lake Geneva.
Absolutely. For experienced riders, Féternes offers 32 difficult mountain bike routes. These include challenging ascents and technical descents. A notable difficult route is the Col du Feu – Mount Forchat loop from Armoy, a 20.9-mile (33.7 km) trail leading through mountain passes with expansive vistas.
The mountain bike trails in Féternes are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.2 stars from over 140 reviews. More than 900 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the stunning panoramic views and diverse landscapes.
Yes, the region is rich in natural beauty and landmarks. Many trails offer stunning 360-degree panoramic views of Lake Geneva and Mont Blanc. You can also find highlights such as the Col du Feu, the Lake Beunaz, and the Shore of Lake Geneva. The Champeillant geosite also offers expansive views of Lake Geneva and the pre-Alps.
While specific 'family-friendly' designations aren't always explicit, the 8 easy routes in Féternes are generally suitable for families looking for less strenuous rides. These trails often feature gentler gradients and scenic surroundings, allowing for an enjoyable experience for all ages.
Generally, dogs are welcome on many outdoor trails in the Haute-Savoie region, but it's always best to check local signage or specific trail regulations. When riding with your dog, ensure they are well-behaved, kept under control (preferably on a leash), and that you clean up after them to respect other trail users and wildlife.
Yes, parking is typically available in and around Féternes, particularly near popular trailheads and villages. Look for designated parking areas in communes like Saint-Paul-en-Chablais, Lyaud, or Armoy, which serve as starting points for many routes.
Public transport options in the Gavot plateau area, including Féternes, may be limited for direct access to all trailheads, especially with bicycles. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for routes connecting to larger towns in the region. Some services might accommodate bikes, but this often requires advance booking or specific times. Driving to a trailhead is generally the most flexible option.
For general mountain biking on established trails in Féternes and the Haute-Savoie region, specific permits are typically not required. However, always respect private property, follow trail etiquette, and adhere to any posted regulations, especially within nature reserves or protected areas. For more detailed information on cycling in the region, you can consult resources like Hautes-Savoie Mont Blanc Tourisme.
Yes, many of the mountain bike routes around Féternes are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Lake Beunaz – View of Lake Leman loop from Saint-Paul-en-Chablais and the Lac de Vallon – Saint Bruno Chapel loop from Lyaud.
Féternes and its surrounding villages offer various options for dining and accommodation. You can find local cafes and restaurants in the village center, providing opportunities to refuel after your ride. For overnight stays, there are hotels and guesthouses available, ranging from charming local establishments to more modern accommodations, particularly in the broader Pays d'Evian Vallée d'Abondance area.


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