Discover the Col de la Forclaz in the heart of the Beaufortain region
During your stay at Chalet Ararat, it's natural to explore the surrounding mountains. Among the destinations well worth a visit, the Col de la Forclaz in Queige offers an authentic immersion in the Beaufortain, this wild and unspoilt territory that is one of the jewels of the French Alps.
After mentioning Mount Taborthe Col de la Madeleine and the Chartreuse massifToday, it's the Col de la Forclaz that we'd like you to discover.
At a reasonable distance from Megève, this excursion allows you to discover a different side of the Savoyard Alps.
An exceptional mountain pass within easy reach of Megève
Distance from Megève Approximately 35 minutes of scenic driving through the Val d'Arly and Beaufortain valleys.
The route takes you first towards Albertville, then towards Beaufort via the Doron valley. The village of Queige, gateway to the Beaufortain, stretches peacefully along the wooded slopes on either side of the Doron. This authentic Savoyard villagewith its eleven hamlets nestling between countryside and mountains, offers a foretaste of the wonders that await you.
A rich historical heritage
The word "Forclaz" comes from the Latin "Furca", meaning "little fork", and refers to a mountain pass. This etymology bears witness to the historic importance of these passes in Alpine communications since Roman times.
The Col de la Forclaz region of Queige is part of this tradition of passage and exchange. The village of Queige itself reveals its heritage through the church of Sainte-Agathe, built in 1674, whose bell tower resembles a medieval defensive tower and which surprises with its magnificent Baroque decoration.
Near the pass, the ruins of Château de Cornillon tell a fascinating story. Built in the 12th century, this castle strategically dominated the Beaufortain valley on one side and the Arly valley on the other. Burnt down in the 14th century, its remains now offer an exceptional view of the surrounding mountains.
The climb: a challenge well worth the diversions
Technical specifications :
- Altitude: 871 metres
- Distance from Queige: 4.7 kilometres
- Ascent: 330 metres
- Average gradient: 7%
- Maximum gradient: 8.5%
The ascent of the Col de la Forclaz de Queige, although short, is a real challenge. a real challenge. The route winds through the hamlets on the slopes, alternating between woodland and more exposed sections. The effort is sustained but rewarded by progressive panoramas of the Beaufortain massif.
This climb is particularly attractive to cyclists in search of authenticity, far from the crowds of the major Alpine passes. The narrow, little-travelled route allows you to experience an intimate communion with the mountain landscape.
The different panoramas and activities
Exceptional views
From the pass, you can look down into the heart of the Beaufortain, revealing the grandeur of this little-known massif. The descent to Ugine offers sublime views of the valley, Mont Charvin and, in the distance, the Aravis range. The panoramic views also take in the Bauges and Chartreuse ranges, creating a truly breathtaking backdrop. postcard from the Alps.
Walking tours
The Col de la Forclaz is the starting point for several itineraries:
The Cornillon loop This medium-level hike (3h30) leads to the ruins of the medieval castle. The path follows the ridge line, crosses blueberry bushes and offers remarkable views of the adjacent valleys.
Tour of Beaufortain The pass is part of this 140-kilometre GRP (Grande Randonnée de Pays) trail, which takes 6 to 8 days to cover the most beautiful sites in the massif. This multi-day hike reveals the diversity of the Beaufort landscapes.
The Five Lakes of Forclaz From the heights of the massif, a more ambitious route leads to the high-altitude lakes (Lac Esola, Lac Riondet, Lac Cornu, Lac Verdet) offering an exceptional mineral setting at the foot of the great peaks.
Complementary activities
The area also offers mountain bike trails to suit all abilities. The "family mountain bike" trails offer a gentle way to explore the Beaufort landscapes, while the climbs to the high-altitude lakes are for experienced mountain bikers.
Immerse yourself in the Beaufortain region
This excursion to the Col de la Forclaz reveals one of the most unspoilt massifs in the Alps. The Beaufortain is characterised by its verdant mountain pastures, sculptural peaks and living pastoral heritage. The region produces the famous Beaufort, a cheese with a registered designation of origin that bears witness to the ancestral know-how of the mountain people.
The landscapes contrast with those of Megève: where the Haut-Savoyard resort cultivates the Alpine art of living in a sophisticated setting, the Beaufortain offers a rougher, wilder mountain, where nature still dictates its own pace.
Practical tips for your trip
Best period From May to October for driving. Summer (July-August) offers optimal conditions for hiking and mountain biking.
Recommended equipment Hiking boots, clothing suited to variations in altitude, sun protection and a sufficient supply of water.
Catering The Alps: Pack a picnic lunch or visit the alpine farms offering local produce, in particular farmhouse Beaufort.
An authentic interlude from Chalet Ararat
From your base at Chalet Ararat, with its breathtaking views of the Aravis massif and its top-of-the-range facilities, the excursion to the Col de la Forclaz offers an impressive contrast.
This breakaway in the Beaufortain allows you toappreciate the diversity of the Alps After enjoying the comforts of the chalet and the pleasures of Megève, you'll discover a more secretive mountain, where authenticity is combined with wild beauty.
The combination of the controlled luxury of Chalet Ararat and the natural immersion of Beaufortain enriches the alpine experience. You'll be able to combine moments of relaxation in the chalet's facilities (indoor pool, spa, private cinema) with adventures in the mountains, creating lasting memories of your stay in the French Alps.
The Col de la Forclaz in Queige is the perfect destination for a day out, offering a different view of the Alps while retaining the comfort and elegance of Chalet Ararat as your base. If you'd like more information about this outing, we'd be delighted to discuss it with you and put together a tailor-made day.