The best mountain hikes around Saint-Paul
4.9
(7)
39
hikers
5
hikes
Mountaineering routes around Saint-Paul, located near Chambéry in France, traverse a landscape characterized by limestone ridges, dense forests, and panoramic views over Lake Bourget. The region offers varied terrain, from challenging ascents to more moderate paths, often featuring significant elevation changes. These routes frequently lead to prominent viewpoints and through natural features typical of the French Prealps. The area's geology provides a diverse environment for mountaineering, with trails winding through wooded areas and open, rocky sections.
Best mountaineering routes around…
Last updated: July 1, 2026
4.5
(4)
23
hikers
7.43km
04:00
660m
660m
Hard mountaineering route. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
5.0
(1)
8
hikers
4.51km
01:31
180m
180m
Moderate mountaineering route. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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5.0
(1)
4
hikers
8.30km
03:10
550m
550m
Hard mountaineering route. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
2
hikers
14.8km
06:13
1,010m
1,010m
Hard mountaineering route. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
5.0
(1)
2
hikers
8.97km
03:23
450m
450m
Moderate mountaineering route. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Tips from the Community
Panoramic view, over the Savoyard pre-Alps, the lake, the Dent du Chat, le Revard, Croix du Nivollet and in clear weather even as far as Mont Blanc! The route does not require any particular physical condition but requires vigilance to place your feet well in order to avoid rocks and roots on the path.
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Beautiful view of the lake.
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Beautiful view of the lake.
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It's a must-see place with a magnificent view of Lake Bourget.
1
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Aerial passage via ladders with gas, not recommended for beginners. Avoid summer weekends, as crowded conditions can cause traffic jams.
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Great lake view with mountains, start of the Tunnel du Chat for cyclists.
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0
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on mountaineering routes around Saint-Paul?
Mountaineering routes around Saint-Paul, near Chambéry in France, are characterized by limestone ridges, dense forests, and often feature significant elevation changes. You'll find trails winding through wooded areas and open, rocky sections, typical of the French Prealps.
How many mountaineering routes are available in the Saint-Paul area?
There are 5 mountaineering routes detailed in this guide for the Saint-Paul area, offering a mix of moderate and difficult challenges.
Are there any circular mountaineering routes near Saint-Paul?
Yes, several routes are circular. For example, the Col du Chat (Chat Pass) – Cat's Tooth loop from Bourdeau is a challenging 7.4 km loop, and the Le Molard Noir – Molard Noir Viewpoint loop from Mont du Chat offers a moderate 4.5 km option.
What are some notable viewpoints or landmarks I can see on these routes?
Many routes offer panoramic views over Lake Bourget. The Col du Chat (Chat Pass) – Cat's Tooth loop from Bourdeau provides rewarding views from the Cat's Tooth, while the Le Molard Noir – Molard Noir Viewpoint loop from Mont du Chat leads to the scenic Molard Noir viewpoint.
What is the difficulty range of mountaineering routes in Saint-Paul?
The routes in Saint-Paul cater to various skill levels, with 2 moderate and 3 difficult options available. This allows for both challenging ascents and more accessible paths.
What do other mountaineers say about the routes in Saint-Paul?
The mountaineering routes around Saint-Paul are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 6 reviews. Mountaineers often praise the varied terrain and expansive views over Lake Bourget.
Are there any longer, more challenging mountaineering routes?
For a more challenging and longer experience, consider the Col du Chat (638 m) – Roc du Cornillon viewpoint loop from Bourdeau. This difficult route spans nearly 15 km with over 1000 meters of elevation gain.
Can I find routes that offer views of Lake Bourget?
Absolutely. Many mountaineering routes in the Saint-Paul area provide expansive views of Lake Bourget. The Lamartine Cave – View of Lake Bourget loop from Bourdeau is specifically highlighted for its lake views.
What is the typical duration for these mountaineering routes?
Route durations vary depending on difficulty and distance. Moderate routes like the Le Molard Noir – Molard Noir Viewpoint loop from Mont du Chat can take around 1.5 hours, while more difficult and longer routes, such as the Col du Chat (638 m) – Roc du Cornillon viewpoint loop from Bourdeau, may require over 6 hours to complete.
Are there any mountain passes accessible via these routes?
Yes, the region features several mountain passes. The Col du Chat (638 m) is a prominent feature, and routes like the Col du Chat (Chat Pass) – Cat's Tooth loop from Bourdeau incorporate it into the mountaineering experience.
What kind of natural features define the Saint-Paul mountaineering experience?
The mountaineering experience in Saint-Paul is defined by its distinctive limestone ridges, dense woodlands, and the expansive views over Lake Bourget, offering a diverse natural environment for exploration.
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