Saint-Marcel offers a range of walking opportunities, from the trail to the Chapelle Saint-Jacques and the Nantieux Arboretum to the longer Pomblière–Montfort hike. The stated times range from around 20 minutes to three hours. There is also a cup-marked stone with numerous engravings and other places of historical interest.
Walking routes with different time requirements
The Pomblière–Montfort hike leads through the forest to the hamlet of Montfort and can be done on foot or by mountain bike. The out-and-back route covers 4 kilometres, with 480 metres of ascent and a stated duration of 180 minutes. When planning, therefore, consider not only the distance but also the elevation gain and the time available. Benches and picnic tables are available at the starting point; check before setting out whether they are still there.
The trail to the Chapelle Saint-Jacques begins near the cemetery, at the junction of Route du Roc Pupin, Chemin de l'Église and Rue du Château. It takes about 20 minutes to reach the chapel. This is an easy family walk with no particular difficulties; Roc Pupim offers an unusual viewpoint. Its short duration sets this walk apart from the hike to Montfort.
The Nantieux Arboretum offers another option: the walk through the arboretum takes 45 minutes and has 50 metres of elevation gain. It passes through the municipal forest of Saint-Marcel. Information panels help visitors identify numerous tree species and learn more about their habitats and uses. This makes the route a walk with a specific nature theme, while the forest trail to the hamlet is the main feature of Pomblière–Montfort.
Cultural heritage and notable places
The Chapelle Saint-Jacques stands on the rocky outcrop of Roc Pupim. Both the chapel and the outcrop are listed as historic monuments. The walk there therefore combines a short hike with a destination whose history can be seen on site. Visitors to the chapel can include the viewpoint at Roc Pupim in the same outing.
The Pierre Ă cupules de Saint-Marcel is a remarkable cup-marked stone with numerous engravings. Another local feature is the location of the Roche de la PĂ©rouse: it stands in a pasture at an altitude of 760 metres, above the Manoir de la PĂ©rouse and below the Rocher du Siaix. These details clearly distinguish the two sites: the cup-marked stone is notable for its engravings, while the Roche de la PĂ©rouse is notable for its position between named landmarks and its elevation.
Montfort is also part of Saint-Marcel’s cultural landscape: one of its local features is a former communal oven associated with the hamlet. If you plan to visit several trails, check the current trail and access conditions before setting out.
Discover more destinations: Les Échelles, Albiez Montrond, Bessans, La Bauche, La Lechere, Plancherine, Montgellafrey, Valmorel
For the overview of the wider region: Savoie.
