Hiking in Les Carroz d'Arâches: our finest walks

Once the snow has melted, Les Carroz d'Arâches reveals another side: a green balcony over the Grand Massif, criss-crossed with trails for every level. Here are our favourite hikes from the resort — just minutes from the Lodge.

Lac de l'Airon, the signature hike

This is the must-do walk in Les Carroz. The Kédeuze gondola (running from 1 May to 31 October, snow permitting) takes you up high: from there, simply follow the "Lac de l'Airon" signs. At the top, the alpine farm awaits with its mountain restaurant, trout fishing and farm cheese for sale, all facing the Aravis range. For the way back, head towards the Col de l'Airon and then Kédeuze — on foot or by gondola.

Keener walkers can start from the Parking des Grangettes: allow about 2h30 and 490 m of ascent, a demanding route rewarded by a mountain lake that is perfect for a picnic.

The two-lakes loop and the Tête des Saix

For a more ambitious day, link the Vernant and Airon lakes. The highlight: the panorama from the Tête des Saix, taking in the Mont-Blanc range, the Haut-Giffre and the Aravis. A high-mountain hike best kept for fine weather, with good shoes and plenty of water.

Easy family walks

Not everyone wants a big climb — and that's absolutely fine. Around the resort, marked trails offer lovely accessible loops, such as the Pierre à Laya loop or the themed mine trail. Perfect for a gentle outing with children, before heading back to enjoy the terrace.

Our practical tips

• Set off early: in summer, mountain storms often build in the late afternoon.
• Check the gondola timetable before leaving, and pack water and a picnic.
• From the Lodge, the Carroz cable car is a 3-minute walk away: you'll be up high in no time.

And on your return, what could be better than relaxing on the south-facing terrace — or in the Nordic bath — to recover facing the pines?