In Vailly, outing options range from the Forêt ivre nature trail and hiking and snowshoeing routes to cultural sites and activities along the Brevon. The Buchille mountain pastures are another highlight. Activities differ in their routes, type of movement and season: a hike has a designated out-and-back distance, while seasonal conditions should be considered for snowshoeing and fishing. This makes it easy to plan your stay around your interests.
Forest and river at the Forêt ivre
The Forêt ivre is one of the 20 outstanding sites of the UNESCO Global Geopark Chablais. The nature trail runs along the Brevon and through its protected forest. It thus connects the Geopark designation with a specific route beside the river and through the forest. The information provided along the trail may change over time.
Hikes to the Chapelle d’Hermone
The Chapelle d’Hermone was built in 1489 by 52 heads of families from Vailly and lies on the GR Balcon du Léman. A hike to the chapel follows a Way of the Cross to Notre Dame d’Hermone. An easy-rated route to the chapel starts at the Col du Feu. Its history, the named long-distance trail and the different routes each provide a distinct point of reference for the chapel.
A snowshoe route also leads to the Chapelle d’Hermone, offering views of Lake Geneva along the way. An alternative follows a different course: it goes along the Hermone ridge to the Montagne aux Soeurs and follows the red-and-white GR markings. The two options therefore differ mainly in their routes and the destinations mentioned. Check snow and access conditions before setting out.
Exploring the Buchille on foot
The easy Les Chalets de Pertuis hike starts in Vailly and is listed as a 4.0 km out-and-back route. It passes through the Buchille mountain pastures, with mountain panoramas accompanying you throughout the walk. The distance refers to the round trip, not to one direction only.
From June to September, mountain farmers continue to settle on the Buchille pastures to milk the animals twice a day. This seasonal practice may be relevant when choosing when to travel. If it matters to your plans, ask locally about current conditions.
Fishing and further discoveries
The fishing stretch on the Brevon in Vailly is 2.5 km long. It is suitable for fly fishing and toc fishing; only these two methods are permitted there. Check the current fishing regulations and seasonal access before your visit. Unlike the hiking routes, the focus here is on permitted fishing methods and access conditions.
On a cani-hike, participants walk with a dog on an elastic leash and learn to guide its pulling force. The activity is offered at the Parc Nordique by Traîneaux Passion in Vailly. As formats and participation requirements may change, check with the provider in advance for the current offer and availability.
The Church of Saint Georges in Vailly is one of the Sardinian neoclassical churches. Its architectural classification adds another cultural dimension to the history of the Chapelle d’Hermone. Thus, in Vailly, two different aspects of cultural heritage can be explored alongside the forest, river and mountain trails.
Discover more destinations: Saint-Cergues, Duingt, Saint-Blaise, Épagny, Bossey, Montmin, Leschaux, Maxilly-sur-Léman.
For the broader travel overview: Haute-Savoie.
