Just a few kilometres from Annecy, the Parmelan plateau is one of the most striking natural balconies in Haute-Savoie. Part of the Bornes massif, this limestone summit rising to roughly 1,832 metres is recognisable from afar by its flat, table-like shape towering over the Annecy basin. Here is what you should know before going to see it — and why this corner of the mountains is one of the assets travellers enjoy when they stay in and around Annecy.
The Parmelan, a mountain like no other above Annecy
The Parmelan is not a sharp peak like the nearby Tournette: it is a vast tilted plateau whose edge forms a long cliff facing Annecy. Its best-known feature is its lapiaz (limestone pavement) — a huge expanse of rock carved by water and time, criss-crossed with cracks, channels and crevasses. Walking on the plateau means crossing an almost lunar mineral landscape, dotted with a few isolated pines and mountain pastures.
This unmistakable relief lies north-east of Annecy, above the villages of Villaz, Dingy-Saint-Clair and Nâves-Parmelan. From the east shore of the lake, from Annecy-le-Vieux or from the heights of Veyrier-du-Lac, it is almost always in view.
Which hikes to discover the plateau?
There are several ways up the Parmelan, from a family walk to a more demanding route. The two most common starting points:
- From Villaz (the Anglette area): this is the gentlest approach. The trail first climbs through forest, then opens onto pastures and the refuge before reaching the rim of the plateau. It is the option to choose for a first visit or an outing with older children used to walking.
- From Dingy-Saint-Clair, via the Grand Montoir: more direct and steeper, this route uses a rocky passage fitted with cables and steps. It is meant for walkers comfortable on mountain terrain and is not recommended in wet weather or with young children.
On the plateau, a refuge run by the French Alpine Club lets you take a break, get something to eat and, for some, spend the night in season. Always check its opening dates and hours before setting off, as they vary with the period.
Stunning views over the lake and the Alps
What stands out most, once up there, is the panorama. From the rim of the plateau, the view drops onto the town of Annecy and its lake, takes in the Tournette, the Bauges massif, the Aravis and, in clear weather, Mont Blanc. It is one of the most complete viewpoints over the Annecy basin — hence its popularity with local hikers and visitors alike.
The plateau is also home to wildlife and plants typical of limestone mid-mountains: chamois, marmots in summer, alpine flowers in spring. Naturally, keep a low profile and respect any grazing herds you may come across.
When to go and how to prepare
The right season runs roughly from late spring to autumn. Snow can linger at altitude; conversely, summer offers the easiest conditions, provided you start early to enjoy the cool of the morning. Autumn, quieter, is superb for the light and the colours.
A few precautions specific to the Parmelan:
- Beware of fog: on a lapiaz plateau, with no landmarks and many fissures, losing visibility can quickly become dangerous. If the weather closes in, it is better to turn back.
- No water on the plateau: carry enough, especially in summer.
- Mountain footwear, a map or reliable app, a light jacket: the essentials of a real hike, even when you set off in the sun.
- Stay on the marked trails: the karst terrain is treacherous off the waymarked paths.
For precise itineraries, up-to-date walking times and trail conditions, the Grand Annecy tourist offices and the local Alpine Club remain the best sources.
The Parmelan, one more reason to rent out your home around Annecy
If you own a property in the area — Annecy, Annecy-le-Vieux, Veyrier-du-Lac, or the villages at the foot of the Bornes — this kind of spot is part of what makes your home attractive all year round: a traveller who knows they can pair a morning by the lake with a Mont-Blanc-view hike in the afternoon books more readily, and comes back.
That is exactly what a local concierge service such as Yes Conciergerie is for: showcasing what makes the region special to your guests (good addresses, walk ideas suited to everyone, seasonal tips) while handling the listing, check-ins, hotel-grade cleaning and follow-up for you. Discover our full concierge service in Annecy or our dedicated Airbnb management.
And if you are planning a stay, take a look at our articles on the most beautiful trails around Annecy and things to do in Annecy in summer.
