Numerous hiking trails lead from Aviernoz to Parmelan. In the village centre stands the present-day church of Saint-Maurice, built in the Neo-Gothic style. This gives you two distinct options when planning your trip: a hike across the limestone plateau and the history of the church.
Hiking to Parmelan
Parmelan is a limestone plateau characterised by lapiaz, fissures and sinkholes. The hike to the Plateau du Parmelan is 9 kilometres long, with 400 metres of positive elevation gain. It is rated moderate and takes 3 hours and 15 minutes. Along the way, the route passes through lapiaz formations with grooves, fissures and crevices; it also offers panoramic views of Lake Annecy. As well as the ascent and the time required, the karst formations are a defining feature of the hike. For planning purposes, the stated duration is a guide; the distance and elevation gain also indicate the scale of the hike.
The moderate rating is not the only factor to consider when deciding whether to take this route: because the lapiaz crossing is technically challenging, the Parmelan hike is not recommended for young children or in wet or foggy conditions. Consider these restrictions alongside the difficulty rating, rather than relying on the label alone.
The shortest version of the hike starts at the Chalet de l’Anglettaz, at an altitude of 1,500 metres. Take road and weather conditions into account when travelling to this starting point, and check them in advance.
Saint-Maurice and the earlier history of the church
The present-day church of Saint-Maurice in Aviernoz was built in the Neo-Gothic style between 1897 and 1900 and consecrated in 1932. The main altar ensemble is housed in the church. The front of the altar depicts the Last Supper, with Christ surrounded by the twelve Apostles. The construction period, year of consecration and depiction represent three distinct aspects of the church: its architecture, its history and the motif on the altar.
An earlier chapter leads to Crêt-des-Pierres. A church was built there between 1682 and 1732, and was completely destroyed by an accidental fire in 1835. After the parish was divided in 1682, this church became part of Aviernoz. Traces of the foundations are still visible at Crêt-des-Pierres; a cross marks the site of the former choir. Thus, both the history of the earlier church site and the later Neo-Gothic building in the village centre form part of Aviernoz’s cultural heritage.
A culinary festival tradition
At the 2025 Vogue d’Aviernoz, a traditional meal of potato fritters and braised ham was served from 12 noon. If you would like to plan your trip around an event, check the dates for your chosen travel year.
Discover more destinations: Chevenoz, Les Contamines-Montjoie, Saint-Eustache, Ambilly, Bogève, Machilly, La Tour, Mûres.
Go to the main travel overview: Haute-Savoie.
