Mont Baron
Hike to breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Annecy and the Alps from Mont Baron, a rewarding trail for nature lovers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Mont Baron
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike to breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Annecy and the Alps from Mont Baron, a rewarding trail for nature lovers.
"Beautiful, lovely hiking with an amazing view up top."
Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The terrain is rocky and can be slippery when wet. Good grip is essential! :athletic_shoe:
Pack Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled on your hike, especially for longer loops. :water_wave:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Lake Annecy View
Summit
Breathtaking 360-degree vistas of Lake Annecy, Semnoz, and the distant Mont Blanc.
Forest Trail Ascent
Lower slopes
A scenic hike through a forest, offering a pleasant transition to the open summit views.
Dent d'Oche Vista
Various viewpoints
Enjoy striking views of the distinctive Dent d'Oche mountain peak.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Views & Trails
Preparation for Your Hike
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The terrain is rocky and can be slippery when wet. Good grip is essential! :athletic_shoe:
Pack Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled on your hike, especially for longer loops. :water_wave:
Check Weather Forecast
Conditions can change quickly in the mountains. Be prepared for sun or rain. :cloudwithrain:
Consider a Loop Trail
Many trails offer beautiful loops, like the 8km or 11km options. :loop:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The terrain is rocky and can be slippery when wet. Good grip is essential! :athletic_shoe:
Pack Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled on your hike, especially for longer loops. :water_wave:
Check Weather Forecast
Conditions can change quickly in the mountains. Be prepared for sun or rain. :cloudwithrain:
Consider a Loop Trail
Many trails offer beautiful loops, like the 8km or 11km options. :loop:
Capture the Views
Bring your camera or phone for incredible photos of the lake and mountains. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Mont Baron for its stunning panoramic views of Lake Annecy and the surrounding mountains, making it a highly recommended day hike. The trails offer a good workout, though some find the rocky terrain challenging. While beautiful, it's noted that the path may not be suitable for very young children.
"I think the altitude gave me autism but not sure"
Maryashi Macintoshi
"Beautiful , lovely hiking with an amazing view"
Agata KrΔΕΌel
"Situated at the western end of the Bornes massif, right next to Annecy, Mont Baron is an ideal destination for hiking in preparation for the summer season. From a low altitude, the trail runs through a forest to quickly flow into a balcony offering a magnificent view of Lake Annecy, Semnoz, Les Bornes, as well as Beaufortain (in the distance you can see the peak of Mont Blanc!). The path is not suitable for young children as the terrain is very rocky and sometimes has rocks to climb. In addition, in humid climates, skidded rocks can be very slippery."
Natalie Daz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
π πΊοΈ Getting There
Mont Baron is accessible from Veyrier du Lac and Bernex. Parking is available near the trailheads. Many visitors start their hike from these villages. 
While direct public transport to the very start of all trails might be limited, you can often reach nearby villages like Veyrier du Lac or Bernex by bus from Annecy, and then walk to the trailhead.
Popular starting points include Bernex for an 8km loop and Veyrier du Lac for various routes, including those that combine with Mont Veyrier.
While not as common as for larger peaks, local hiking groups or guides might offer tours, especially during peak season. It's worth checking local tourism offices.
Driving from Annecy to the base of Mont Baron trails typically takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic and your chosen starting point.
π« π« Tickets & Entry
No, hiking Mont Baron is free. It's a natural mountain area open to the public for recreational activities.
Mont Baron is accessible year-round during daylight hours. The trails are always open, but accessibility can be affected by snow in winter.
There is no entrance fee to access the trails or summit of Mont Baron.
While technically possible, hiking at night is not recommended due to safety concerns and the lack of lighting on the trails. Stick to daylight hours.
No permits are required for general hiking on Mont Baron. It's a public access area for outdoor enthusiasts.
π« π₯Ύ Onsite Experience
Hikes on Mont Baron range from moderate to challenging. Some trails are rocky and involve climbs, making them unsuitable for very young children or those with mobility issues.
Hike durations vary. Popular loops can be around 8km to 11km, taking approximately 3-5 hours to complete, depending on your pace and stops.
Expect spectacular panoramic views of Lake Annecy, the surrounding Alps including Semnoz and Beaufortain, and the distinctive Dent d'Oche.
There are no facilities like restrooms or cafes at the summit. It's a natural mountain environment, so come prepared.
Due to the rocky terrain and potential for slippery conditions, it's generally not recommended for very young children. Older children who are comfortable with hiking might enjoy it.
πΈ πΈ Photography
The summit offers the most expansive panoramic views. Look for viewpoints along the trails that frame Lake Annecy and the Dent d'Oche.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful golden hour light, but can be challenging to access safely. Mid-morning or late afternoon provide good light without harsh shadows.
Drone regulations can vary. Always check local rules and regulations regarding drone usage in natural parks and near residential areas before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the panoramic landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating mountain peaks. Don't forget a sturdy tripod if you plan for low-light shots.
The contrast between the blue lake, green forests, and rugged mountain peaks provides many unique photographic opportunities. Look for interesting rock formations and wildflowers in season.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
π¨βπ©βπ§ Families with Kids
πΆ Budget Travelers
+1 Your main expenses will be transportation to the trailhead and any food or water you choose to bring. Packing your own picnic to enjoy at the summit is a fantastic way to save money and savor the experience. πΈ Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Plan your visit around sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting, but be prepared for potentially challenging trail conditions in low light. Don't forget to pack a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive vistas and a telephoto lens for those distant mountain peaks. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails of Mont Baron
+1 These trails often wind through picturesque forests before opening up to breathtaking balcony paths. Be prepared for rocky terrain; some sections may require scrambling or careful foot placement, especially after rain. Many hikers recommend combining Mont Baron with its neighbor, Mont Veyrier, for a more extensive hiking experience. This can create longer, more challenging routes with even more varied scenery.
While the trails are generally well-marked, carrying a map or using a GPS app on your phone is always a good idea, especially if you plan to explore less common paths. The ascent is rewarding, with stunning views unfolding as you gain altitude. When planning your hike, consider the time of year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful natural colors. Summer can be warm, so starting early is advisable. Winter hiking is possible but requires appropriate gear and caution due to potential snow and ice.
Capturing the Iconic Views
+1 The distinctive silhouette of the Dent d'Oche is another prominent and photogenic feature visible from various points along the trails. For the best photographic results, aim for the 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset, when the light casts a warm glow over the landscape. However, be mindful of safety when hiking in low light conditions. Mid-morning or late afternoon also offer excellent lighting, with softer shadows and vibrant colors.
A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to capture the grandeur of the panoramic views, while a telephoto lens can be useful for isolating specific mountain peaks or details. Beyond the grand landscapes, look for smaller details: the textures of the rocky paths, the wildflowers in bloom during spring and summer, and the play of light and shadow through the forest canopy. The changing seasons also offer unique photographic opportunities, from the lush greens of summer to the autumnal hues.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit