Hike to Semnoz: From Basilique de la Visitation to Crêt de Châtillon

In mid-Spring, I went back to Semnoz: Starting from Basilique de la Visitation in Annecy, I took a series of trails to the summit of the mountain, the Crêt de Châtillon.

Here is a map of the path I walked (download KML):

I had already been to Semnoz in the past: I climbed to the summit from Saint-Jorioz, walked on the plateau at the top a couple of times and also went through some trails at the foot of the mountain near Annecy. Many years ago, I even went there by bike. This time, starting from the old town of Annecy near the lake, I hiked the Semnoz along its length, all the way to Crêt de Châtillon. On the way up, I first took the Circuit Central, which passes by a few viewpoints. Then it was mostly forest paths on a mild but long slope, up until I crossed the paved road for the final part. The trail became steeper after that and started to be covered with snow, which was a slog to get through. Finally, I reached “Les Rochers Blancs”, a restaurant near the summit. Then, it was just a short walk to the cross at the summit of Crêt de Châtillon. There was a great view from there, even though it was really cloudy. On the way down, I had planned to start on the same path as on the way up and then keep on the GRP Tour du Lac d’Annecy to pass through some viewpoints on Crêt du Maure. However, it was late in the day and a storm was approaching so instead I had my father pick me up. During summer, it is also possible to take the shuttle (SIBRA Ligne du Semnoz) back to Annecy.

Above, in the morning, near a canal in the old town.

Above, Basilique de la Visitation.

Above, start of the trail behind the Basilique.

Above, first viewpoint.

Above, Montagne de la Mandallaz.

Above, Belvédère du Pas de l’Echelle.

Above, I made a short detour to Parc Animalier de la Grande Jeanne, a small deer park (with a few goats as well).

Above, Salève seen from Belvédère du Crêt des Bruyères.

Above, walking on the paved road for a little while.

Above, the weather started to sour.

Above, remnant of snow.

Above, Chalet de Bénévent.

Above, from there, the trail mostly follows cross-country skiing tracks.

Above, more snow.

Above, summit in view.

Above, Les Rochers Blancs.

Above, Crêt de Châtillon.

Above, cross at the summit.

Above, La Tournette.

Above, Bauges.

Above, Plateau du Semnoz.

Above, Lac du Bourget in the distance.

Above, Montagne de la Mandallaz.

Above, I walked down the road for a bit.

Above, Lake Annecy from a viewpoint near the summit.

Above, summer luge track.

Above, storm approaching.

Above, back in the old town.