Col du Bonhomme and walks from Megève

Le Col du Bonhomme is an alpine hike accessible from the Megève region. Culminating at 2,329 metres above sea level, This mythical pass between Haute-Savoie and Savoie offers guests at Chalet Ararat an incomparably rich mountain getaway.

A site steeped in history in the heart of the Alps

Since ancient times, this pass has been an important strategic passage, It was a favourite haunt of the Romans, pedlars, crystal smiths and other livestock traders. The Roman road that leads to the pass still bears witness to this rich, thousand-year-old history. Before the Roman invasion, the Val-Montjoie was populated by Ceutrons, A Celtic tribe that already used this passage to trade salt to Moutiers.

In 1860, when Savoie and the Comté de Nice were annexed by France, a free zone was established, with the pass forming one of its boundaries. This particular geographical position makes it a privileged witness to the evolution of Alpine borders.

A demanding hike with grandiose panoramas

Technical specifications

The hike to the Col du Bonhomme is an unforgettable experience. high level of difficulty (rated black), with a total duration of 6h50 return and a positive altitude difference of 1,119 metres. Departure is from the Notre-Dame de la Gorge car park in Les Contamines-Montjoie, located approx. 45 minutes by car of Megève.

The route and its highlights

The trail starts at the Our Lady of the Throat and follows the old Roman road. Hikers pass through the natural bridgethe Roman bridge, Then head up towards the Plan-des-Dame burial mound before reaching the orientation table on the Col du Bonhomme.

The route passes through a number of refuges, each with its own stage: the Nant-Borrant refuge, then the la Balme. These establishments offer traditional mountain fare and the chance to take a comforting break during your ascent.

Panoramic views from the pass

At an altitude of 2,300 metres, the Col du Bonhomme offers a breathtaking breathtaking panorama on the Contamines-Montjoie Nature Reserve on one side and Beaufortain of the other. This privileged position means you can look out over a vast expanse of Alpine peaks, from the glaciers of the Mont Blanc massif to the crests of the Savoyard mountains.

Possible extensions for experienced hikers

More experienced walkers can continue the adventure by crossing to the Bonhomme Cross (another 50 minutes) and then up to the Col des Fours (30 minutes), which offers a 360° panorama with an orientation table. This extension gives access to even more spectacular views of the entire Alpine massif.

Practical information for the 2025 season

Opening period and conditions

The route can be taken from 15 June to 31 October, Subject to favourable snow and weather conditions. Snow conditions may persist at high altitude until May, making it necessary to have a snowmobile. adapted equipment for early-season outings.

Access and parking

Departure is from Les Contamines-Montjoie, a 45-minute drive from Megève via the Chamonix valley. This proximity means that families staying in luxury chalet rental in Megève to easily organise this day trip. The recommended car park is at Notre-Dame de la Gorge, with a shuttle bus stop of the same name during the summer season.

Regulations and recommendations

The route crosses the Contamines-Montjoie Nature Reserve, a protected area of 5,500 hectares. Dogs must be kept on a lead due to the presence of herds and guard dogs. For detailed information on hiking conditions and mountain weather, visit the official website of Météo France.

Other discoveries from Notre-Dame de la Gorge

The Col du Bonhomme starting point also offers access to other remarkable walks that can round off your stay in the region.

The Jovet lakes

The Jovet lakes are an alternative or a complement to the Col du Bonhomme. This 6 hours (return journey) has a positive difference in altitude of 998 metres and leads to two high altitude lakes at 2 172 and 2 194 metres. The route follows the same path as the Col du Bonhomme to the Jovet chalets, before branching off towards the lakes at the foot of the Col du Bonhomme. Mount Tondu (3,196 metres).

The 2025 regulations stipulate that bivouac at Jovet Lakes is strictly prohibited from 1 July to 31 August. La swimming remains prohibited to hikers and pets all year round. These measures are designed to preserve the fragile ecosystem of these high-altitude lakes.

The Combe Noire waterfall

For families or walkers wishing to a more accessible exit, the Combe Noire waterfall offers a hike from average level 1h50 round trip with 271 metres of ascent. Located in the Laya forest in the heart of the Nature Reserve, this waterfall is set in an unspoilt forest setting.

Mountain refuges

A number of refuges line these routes, making them ideal stopping-off points:

• The Nant-Borrant refuge The first refuge on the Roman road, it offers mountain-style dining in a pastoral setting.
• The Balme refuge The Col du Bonhomme: Situated at an altitude of 1,706 metres, this is a strategic stop-off point for hikes to the Col du Bonhomme and the Jovet lakes.
• The Prés refuge The Tête de la Cicle: Rebuilt in 2021, this 30-person refuge is located at an altitude of 1,933 metres at the foot of the Tête de la Cicle. It is a stage on the Tour du Mont-Blanc and the GR5.

These establishments offer half-board packages and can organise multi-day walks in the nature reserve.

Other nature escapades from your chalet

The privileged position of Chalet Ararat in Megève also allows you to explore other remarkable natural sites in the region:

• The Blue Lake in Chamonix A family hike accessible in less than an hour from Megève, offering a peaceful setting at the foot of the glaciers.
• The Col de la Forclaz An emblematic section of the Beaufortain accessible from Megève, renowned for its panoramic views of the Mont Blanc chain and its traditional mountain pastures.
• Lac Vert de Passy Located close to your chalet, this high-altitude lake offers a shorter but equally rewarding hike, ideal for a half-day escape.
• The Col de la Madeleine Historic crossing point between the Tarentaise and Maurienne mountains, accessible for a day trip with panoramic views of the surrounding massifs.

From Megève to the Col du Bonhomme

This major tour is the perfect complement to a stay at Chalet Ararat. It allows families and groups of friends to discover the high Alpine mountains in an unspoilt setting, while benefiting from the comfort and privileged location of the chalet as a starting point.

Megève's proximity to Les Contamines-Montjoie makes it easy to organise this getaway, which can be one of the highlights of a stay in the region.

The historical richness, scenic beauty and physical demands of this hike make it an unforgettable experience, perfectly complementing the more contemplative pleasures offered by the resort of Megève and its immediate surroundings.

Article updated for the 2025 season. Weather and snow conditions can change rapidly in the mountains. We recommend that you check the weather forecasts and contact your local tourist office before going out.