Best natural monuments around Marignier include a diverse range of natural features in the Haute-Savoie region of France. The area is characterized by mountain peaks, serene lakes, and dramatic gorges. These natural features near Marignier offer varied experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. The landscape provides opportunities for exploring different terrains and enjoying panoramic views.
Last updated: October 5, 2026
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One of the most beautiful views of the valley, with a rather unusual view overlooking the mole. It is then possible to cross the ridges to Pointe du Haut Fleury but be careful at Pas de l'Ane which is quite exposed despite the handrail. Strictly not recommended in case of dizziness.
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A majestic summit resembling a pyramid from the Cenise side, the Jallouvre - or Jalouvre - is a mythical summit whose ascent, although not difficult compared to its neighbor Pointe Blanche overhanging it by 30m, remains in the memory like that of a almost epic adventure between grueling scree (on both sides), the mythical Col du Razoir (the aptly named) and the Passage de la Cravate which, in the end, poses no more problem than that when the residual snowfields have disappeared, unless that we are subject to vertigo. In summary, one of the most beautiful hikes in the area in my opinion, for which you still need to be sure-footed and in good shape, but which can be tamed quite easily. Do not miss !
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It can blow hard up there! I recommend the path that goes down to La Tour from the east
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The cross means summit of the Brasse mountain
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Incredible nature, the river has carved out a passage
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Lake Bénit is located at an altitude of 1,452 meters, on the northern slope (ubac) of the Bargy chain, in the Bornes1 massif. It is dominated to the south by the limestone wall of the Bargy chain from where the scree of the Col d'Encrenaz cirque spills out and delimits the south-west shore of the lake. The northwest bank corresponds to the slope of the old glacial basin while the east bank opens onto the valley of the Lac Bénit stream. In 1988, Father Arsène Bourgeaux, ethnographer, in a publication dedicated to the parish, indicated that the lake, “for the inhabitants of the Mont is considered as a sort of founding place where the identity of a population originates” 7. The lake was the subject of processions by the populations of Marnaz and Mont-Saxonnex, on Saint Claude's Day, in order to protect the villages from flooding. The lake benefited from developments in the early 1960s, notably with the raising of the lake level, which made it possible to double its surface area7. The inauguration took place on July 11, 19657. A mass was improvised by priest Claude Scherantz. Lake Bénit is the subject of many legends. One of them relates that the fairies came to bathe there and were at the origin of the production of butter and tomme in the town. A second legend says that an episcopal ring is found in the lake9. Following a deadly avalanche, the bishop of the diocese is said to have gone “in a grand procession” to bless the lake and to have thrown “his episcopal ring into the waves asking heaven that such a catastrophe never happens again”9. Another version says that the object was so heavy that it fell into the lake at the time of the blessing9. According to this legend, an avalanche emptied the lake and flooded Marnaz below4. Finally Alphonse Favre (en) reports that “this lake is due to a collapse in which a fir forest disappeared. As for the time, it can only be established in a very doubtful manner, by the fact that an old man from the village of Brezon assured, around 1845, that this event had happened in his father's youth. »1
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Pointe des Brasses is a summit of Haute-Savoie located in the Chablais massif, straddling the municipalities of Saint-Jeoire and Viuz-en-Sallaz, and culminating at 1,503 meters above sea level. Les Brasses is a toponym from a mountain pasture located above Viuz-en-Sallaz2. It could derive from the German Brache, which designates fallow or fallow land2,3, or from the Old German braka meaning “clearing”3. It is possible that it also derives from the Latin bracchium3 (“arm”), referring to the arms of the river, three of which have their source in Brasses: the Menoge, the Entreverges and Airets streams. In June 2013, a cross made by students from the Viuz-en-Sallaz Catholic Automobile School was erected on its summit. Six meters high, it is made up of 33 metal cubes measuring 30 centimeters on each side, assembled on site and arranged in a spiral by the students themselves. She was blessed on July 7, 2013 by Mgr Boivineau, Bishop of Annecy.
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Among the most popular natural monuments are Pointe de Marcelly, which offers stunning valley views, and Le Môle summit cross, known for its exceptional panoramas including Mont Blanc. Visitors also highly appreciate the dramatic Gorges du Pont du Diable.
For breathtaking panoramic views, consider visiting Le Môle summit cross, where you can distinctly see Mont Blanc among nearly 700 peaks. Pointe de Marcelly also provides one of the most beautiful and unique perspectives overlooking Le Môle and the valley. The challenging ascent to Pic de Jallouvre rewards hikers with memorable vistas.
Yes, for experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the ascent to Pic de Jallouvre is noted for its grueling scree and sections like the Col du Razoir and Passage de la Cravate. Another challenging option is Pointe de Marcelly, especially if you continue along the ridges towards Pointe du Haut Fleury, which includes exposed sections like Pas de l'Ane.
For a more moderate experience, the area around Lac Bénit offers a rewarding destination for hikers and nature lovers, with its tranquil setting. While the ascent to Le Môle summit cross is generally considered intermediate and accessible, providing exceptional views without extreme difficulty. The Forêt d'Anterne also offers serene walking trails.
The Marignier region in Haute-Savoie is rich in diverse natural features. You can explore majestic mountain summits like Pointe de Marcelly and Pic de Jallouvre, serene mountain lakes such as Lac Bénit, and dramatic gorges like the Gorges du Pont du Diable. Expansive forests like the Forêt d'Anterne also offer natural beauty and walking opportunities.
Yes, several natural monuments can be enjoyed with family. Lac Bénit offers a beautiful and tranquil setting, perfect for a family outing. The Gorges du Pont du Diable provide scenic beauty and opportunities for walks, while the Forêt d'Anterne offers accessible walking trails in a natural environment.
The Forêt d'Anterne et bord de l'Arve à Marignier is known as a dog-friendly park with designated off-leash zones and shaded seating, making it an excellent destination for nature lovers and their canine companions. Always ensure dogs are kept under control and follow local regulations in other natural areas.
The best time to visit is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to October) when the weather is milder, and mountain trails are clear of snow. This period allows for comfortable hiking and enjoying the full beauty of the lakes, gorges, and summits. Some higher-altitude monuments like Pic de Jallouvre may have residual snowfields well into early summer.
Visiting in winter is possible but requires appropriate gear and experience, especially for higher-altitude monuments. Some trails may be covered in snow or ice, making them challenging or inaccessible. For example, the Passage de la Cravate on Pic de Jallouvre becomes more problematic with residual snowfields. Lower-altitude areas and forests might offer opportunities for snowshoeing or winter walks.
Beyond exploring the natural monuments themselves, the Marignier region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, such as the 'Pont Vieux de Cluses – Arpenaz Waterfall loop', or challenging routes like 'Col de Joux Plane – Col de la Joux Verte loop'. There are also running trails, including loops around Le Môle summit cross. For more details, check out the Road Cycling Routes around Marignier, Running Trails around Marignier, and Hiking around Marignier guides.
Yes, Lac Bénit is steeped in local legends, with tales of fairies bathing there and influencing local cheese production, adding a mythical charm to its natural beauty. The Gorges du Pont du Diable are also considered mythical, with the river carving out a dramatic passage through unique geological formations, offering a very aesthetic canyon experience, especially when the sun is aligned.
The region, particularly areas like the Forêt d'Anterne et bord de l'Arve à Marignier, boasts rich flora and fauna. While specific species are not detailed, you can expect to encounter typical alpine and forest wildlife, including various bird species, small mammals, and a diverse range of mountain wildflowers and trees, especially during spring and summer. The serene environment provides a habitat for many natural inhabitants.


Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Marignier: