The best walks and hikes around Cuvat
4.5
(2409)
32,968
hikers
398
hikes
Hiking around Cuvat offers access to diverse landscapes within the French Alps, characterized by majestic mountains and verdant valleys. The region features the Mandallaz mountain, which rises to 929 meters and provides panoramic views of the Annecy metropolitan area and Lake Annecy. Trails often wind through varied forest atmospheres, with viewpoints overlooking Parmelan and the Plateau des Glières.
Best hiking trails around Cuvat
- The most popular hiking route is View of Annecy and Lake Annecy – Tête de la Mandallaz loop from Les Burnets, a 5.0 miles (8.1 km) trail that takes 2 hours 25 minutes to complete, offering views of the lake and city.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Resistance shelter 1944 – Tête de la Mandallaz loop from Allonzier-la-Caille, a moderate 9.4 miles (15.2 km) path. This route explores the Mandallaz mountain, passing historical points of interest.
- Local hikers also love the Viewpoint – View of Annecy and the Lake loop from Metz-Tessy, a 7.5 miles (12.0 km) trail leading through forested areas with elevated viewpoints, often completed in about 3 hours 38 minutes.
- Hiking around Cuvat is defined by Alpine scenery, panoramic viewpoints, and varied forest paths. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy walks to more challenging moderate ascents.
- The routes in Cuvat are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from more than 2,200 reviews. More than 32,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Cuvat's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 4, 2026
4.3
(3)
29
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
32
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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5.0
(5)
23
hikers
12.0km
03:38
360m
360m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.5
(2)
35
hikers
8.16km
02:21
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
22
hikers
9.28km
02:51
280m
280m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Tips from the Community
Great view of Annecy and the lake
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It is difficult to recommend or not this trail which is nevertheless beautiful. It is difficult, in one direction as in the other. It is narrow, difficult, with steep overhangs, and it lacks maintenance. Do not embark on it thinking that it will be a walk in the park!
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Here lived free from May 12 to August 19, 1944 the maquisards of the secret army of the Megevant group, called "PAN PAN". A little history, even during a mountain bike outing, doesn't hurt!
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Head of Mandallaz and Sillingy fault mirror
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Mandallaz Mountain, also known as Mandallaz Mountain (pronounced Mandalle), or Balme Mountain, is a mountain in the Prealps located in the Haute-Savoie department (France). The word mandallaz comes from the Old French muer, which gave rise to the verbs "remer" and "mouvoir," and more specifically the noun remue. It thus refers to a small chalet located in an alpine pasture, and in Savoyard, muanda, with the diminutive suffix -allaz. The mountain is locally known as Balme Mountain or La Balme-de-Sillingy, from the name of the eponymous commune. In a transcript of a meeting of the Florimontane Academy (1912), a note states that "Mandallaz is wrongly called the mountain of Balme de Sillingy." It can also be called Mandallaz Mountain or simply La Mandallaz. The Mandallaz Mountains are a small pre-Alpine massif, eight kilometers long and three to four kilometers wide, located northwest of the Annecy basin. It extends through the communes of Annecy (formerly Pringy), Choisy, Cuvat, Épagny-Metz-Tessy, La Balme-de-Sillingy, Sillingy, and Allonzier-la-Caille. Its most prominent peak, the Tête de la Mandallaz, at the southern end of the mountain overlooking La Balme-de-Sillingy and Épagny-Metz-Tessy at an altitude of 900 meters, is not its highest point; the highest point is located in the center of the mountain at 923 meters. The Mandallaz offers panoramic views of the Annecy metropolitan area, Lake Annecy, the Alps, the Montagne d'Âge, and the surrounding countryside.
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Few people, few cars, and a magnificent view
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Cuvat?
There are over 350 hiking routes around Cuvat, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. This includes 134 easy trails, 203 moderate routes, and 32 more challenging hikes.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in Cuvat?
Yes, Cuvat offers several easy, family-friendly options. The region research mentions the "Chemin du bois de la Cure," a 2 km loop through undergrowth with panoramic views of Lake Annecy, taking about 40 minutes. Another easy option from our guide data is the Charvonnex by DH – Frétallaz Pass loop from Saint-Martin-Bellevue, which is 5.7 km long and classified as easy.
What kind of views can I expect on hikes around Cuvat?
Hiking around Cuvat offers stunning panoramic views. Many trails, especially those on the Mandallaz mountain, provide vistas of the Annecy metropolitan area, Lake Annecy, the wider Alps, and the surrounding countryside. You can also admire beautiful panoramas of the Parmelan and the Plateau des Glières.
Are there any circular hiking routes in the Cuvat area?
Yes, many of the popular hikes around Cuvat are circular routes. For example, the View of Annecy and Lake Annecy – Tête de la Mandallaz loop from Les Burnets is a popular 8.1 km moderate loop. Another option is the View of Annecy and Lake Annecy loop from Allonzier-la-Caille, which covers 9.3 km.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Cuvat?
The trails in Cuvat are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 2,200 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse landscapes, the stunning Alpine scenery, and the panoramic viewpoints, particularly those overlooking Lake Annecy and the surrounding mountains. The varied forest paths also contribute to a pleasant hiking experience.
Can I hike on the Mandallaz mountain, and what are the options?
Yes, the Mandallaz mountain is a prominent feature for hiking in Cuvat. There are several routes that explore this area, offering varied experiences. A notable moderate option is the Resistance shelter 1944 – Tête de la Mandallaz loop from Allonzier-la-Caille, a 15.2 km path that passes historical points of interest.
Are there any interesting landmarks or attractions near the hiking trails?
Beyond the natural beauty, the region offers several points of interest. You can find highlights like the Greenway along the shore of Lake Annecy, known for its incredible views. For mountain vistas, consider the View of Lake Annecy from Mont Veyrier or the View of Lake Annecy from Mont Baron. The "Resistance shelter 1944" is also a historical point of interest on one of the Mandallaz loops.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Cuvat?
Cuvat's diverse landscapes make it suitable for hiking across multiple seasons. While specific recommendations depend on the trail, the region generally offers pleasant conditions from spring through autumn. For higher altitude trails, summer and early autumn provide the most stable weather. Winter hiking is possible, but some routes may require appropriate gear or be less accessible due to snow.
Are there any hikes that offer views of Lake Annecy?
Absolutely. Many trails around Cuvat provide excellent views of Lake Annecy. A popular choice is the View of Annecy and Lake Annecy – Tête de la Mandallaz loop from Les Burnets. Another highly-rated option is the Viewpoint – View of Annecy and the Lake loop from Metz-Tessy, which leads through forested areas with elevated viewpoints.
What is the typical difficulty level for hikes in Cuvat?
The hiking trails in Cuvat cater to a range of abilities. The majority of routes are classified as moderate, making them suitable for hikers with some experience. However, there are also numerous easy walks perfect for beginners or families, as well as a selection of more difficult trails for experienced hikers seeking a challenge. The region's trails are defined by Alpine scenery and varied forest paths.
Is there public transport access to hiking trailheads near Cuvat?
While Cuvat benefits from its proximity to Annecy and major roads, specific public transport options directly to every trailhead may vary. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for routes connecting Cuvat to nearby villages or Annecy, which might offer closer access points to some trails. Many trailheads are also accessible by car, with parking often available.
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