Best natural monuments around Onnion include diverse geological features within the Haute-Savoie department of France. The region is characterized by its alpine environment, featuring deep gorges, prominent mountain peaks, and serene water bodies. These sites offer opportunities to explore the natural landscape. The area provides a variety of natural attractions for outdoor enthusiasts.
Last updated: July 29, 2026
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Intersection Point: La Gouille aux Morts (Pond of the Dead) Altitude 650m Gouille aux Morts: What an ugly name for this charming little pond. Beavers, mallards, herons, and especially frogs take shelter in its tall grass and breed there. The place is calm and peaceful, far from the road to the Vallée Verte (Green Valley), although you can still hear the sounds of traffic. Above it, the Molière à Vachat stream is mirrored in its waters. Its reflection blends with the water lilies scattered there, creating perfect harmony. A delight for the eye of the walker. It's impossible not to think of Monet's "Water Lilies." It is said that, long ago, two stonemasons working at the "Molière," located about fifty meters above, fell to their deaths there on a Sunday (yes, a Sunday...the Lord's Day). See: H. Savoie: Les Molières du Mont Vouan. Or perhaps the pond got its name because a peasant was swallowed up there with his cart...
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Very nice hike. It was quite crowded today. Contrary to what’s written in the description, I didn’t see any particularly risky passages
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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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Nice place to take a break but not worth a hike on its own. Nice view of the Rocafort castle less than 10 minutes away on foot. This stone is also located about thirty minutes from the Penaz waterfall which is worth the detour.
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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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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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The region around Onnion is rich in panoramic vistas. Beyond the well-known summits, you can find breathtaking views from sites like La Pesse and Le Rogin, offering clear views of the Mont Blanc mountain range, the Bargy chain, and the Aravis mountains. Le Môle summit cross also provides exceptional views, with nearly 700 peaks visible on a clear day.
Yes, La Gouille aux Morts, a charming little pond, is a family-friendly natural monument. It's a calm and peaceful spot where you can observe beavers, mallards, herons, and frogs. The reflection of the Molière à Vachat stream and water lilies create a serene atmosphere, reminiscent of Monet's paintings.
The area boasts impressive geological formations, such as the Gorges du Pont du Diable. Here, the river has carved an incredible passage through the landscape, creating a very aesthetic canyon. These mythical gorges are steeped in history and showcase a glacial lock formation, where limestone layers offered resistance to glacial erosion.
Yes, the Copacou Stone is considered a significant historical natural site. This archaeological particularity is thought to be a sacrificial and chalice stone, featuring a regular triangular depression. From this location, you also get a magnificent view of the valley.
The region around Onnion is perfect for various outdoor activities. You can explore numerous running trails, road cycling routes, and mountain hikes. For detailed routes and inspiration, check out the guides for Running Trails around Onnion, Road Cycling Routes around Onnion, and Mountain Hikes around Onnion.
Beyond the Gorges du Pont du Diable, the Risse stream and its gorge, particularly around the Pont de la Tourne, offer a magnificent natural spectacle. The stream flows through a deep, narrow gorge, with deep basins known as 'gouilles' below the bridge. Additionally, the nearby Cascade de la Diomaz, approximately 4km away, is listed as a site of natural beauty.
Visitors particularly appreciate the stunning views and the unique geological formations. For instance, Pointe de Marcelly is highly praised for offering one of the most beautiful and unusual views of the valley. The Gorges du Pont du Diable are also loved for their incredible natural beauty where the river has carved an aesthetic passage.
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the ascent to Pointe de Marcelly is considered challenging. It offers spectacular views, and it's possible to cross the ridges to Pointe du Haut Fleury, though caution is advised at Pas de l'Ane due to exposure, especially if you experience dizziness.
The natural monuments around Onnion are beautiful throughout the year. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and pleasant temperatures for hiking and exploring gorges and lakes. Autumn provides stunning foliage, especially around viewpoints, while winter transforms the landscape into a snowy wonderland, suitable for specific winter activities and enjoying the serene alpine environment.
Yes, the region around Onnion features several mountain passes that are popular with cyclists and offer scenic drives. The Col de Cou, at an altitude of 1,117 meters, connects the Vallée Verte to the Côte-en-Chablais region. Other notable passes include Col de Jambaz and Col de Saxel, known for their picturesque routes and varying gradients.
While not explicitly 'hidden,' the Risse stream and its gorge, particularly around the Pont de la Tourne, offer a truly monumental natural spectacle that might be less frequented than the main summits. Its deep basins and the interplay of water, rock, and historical architecture make it a serene and admirable site to explore.
From various mountain peaks and viewpoints like Mount Forchat, you can expect nearly panoramic views. On a clear day, it's possible to see the majestic Mont Blanc and even Lac Leman. These spots often have orientation signs to help identify the surrounding landscape, including the Bargy chain, the Aravis mountains, and local summits like Haute Pointe and Le Môle.


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