Mont Veyrier is an ideal goal for anyone looking to discover hikes around Annecy in the best possible conditions. Its commanding position above the lake makes it a natural lookout, popular with photographers and lovers of Alpine views.
Unlike other more technical summits, this hike stays accessible while still delivering a real mountain feel. The moderate elevation gain (around 650 metres from Veyrier-du-Lac) lets you enjoy the effort without major difficulty.
The summit of Mont Veyrier opens up a 360° view: Lake Annecy in all its splendour, La Tournette, the Bauges, and on a clear day, Mont Blanc.
The most popular route starts in the village of Veyrier-du-Lac. A marked trail winds through deciduous woodland before reaching the rockier sections. Allow around 2 hours 15 minutes to climb 650 metres of ascent.
This route offers a good balance between effort and accessibility. Technical sections are rare, making this Mont Veyrier hike relatively easy for regular walkers.
For those who prefer a shorter access point, starting from the Col des Contrebandiers cuts the ascent to around 300 metres. The climb is then much quicker, at about 1 hour, but parking is limited.
More experienced hikers will enjoy the Mont Veyrier - Mont Baron loop, which extends the adventure to a second summit with different views over the Bauges massif. Allow 4 to 5 hours for this more complete option.
Total time: 4 to 4.5 hours (round trip from Veyrier-du-Lac)
Total ascent: 650 metres
Distance: around 8 km round trip
Difficulty: moderate, suitable for regular hikers
Waymarking: well-marked trail (yellow)
The hike is best done from April to November. In summer, set off early to avoid the heat and enjoy the best light for photos. Autumn brings beautiful colours in the wooded sections.
In winter, the trail becomes more technical with snow and ice. A winter hike on Mont Veyrier requires suitable kit (crampons) and experience of winter mountain conditions.
Mid-height hiking boots with good grip
Walking poles (useful on steeper sections)
Enough water (at least 1.5 litres)
Sun protection (cream, sunglasses, cap)
Layered clothing (the summit is often windy)
Energy snacks
Arrive early at the Veyrier-du-Lac car park, especially at weekends when it gets busy. Parking can become difficult after 9 am in peak season.
Allow time at the summit to enjoy the view. A break of at least 30 minutes gives you time to take in the full 360° panorama and recharge before heading back down.
Respect the environment: stay on marked paths, take all litter home, and keep noise down to protect local wildlife. Mont Veyrier is part of a sensitive natural area.
Beyond solo hiking, Mont Veyrier and the surrounding trails are perfect for rewarding group experiences. For businesses looking to strengthen team spirit in an exceptional natural setting, Annecy Aventure designs team building seminars combining hiking, orientation and collaborative challenges.
These tailor-made programmes combine accessible physical effort with fun activities that encourage communication and team spirit. With a turnkey set-up (transport, catering, professional supervision), your teams enjoy a memorable experience in the mountains around Annecy.
Whether you're after an orientation challenge, a nature-based incentive or a full mountain team building day, each format is adapted to your goals and your team's fitness level.
Can you do this hike with children? Yes, from around 8 to 10 years old for children who are used to walking. The ascent is steady and significant, but there are no major dangerous sections.
Is there a refuge or water point on the route? No, there are no refreshment points on the trail. Make sure you bring enough water and food.
Are dogs allowed? Yes, but keep them on a lead, especially in busier areas and to respect wildlife.
What’s the difference with Mont Baron? Mont Baron (1,299 m) is right next door and slightly higher. The two summits can be combined into a loop of around 5 hours.