Discover La Côte-D'arbroz

La Côte-D'arbroz lies on a south-facing slope at an altitude of 1,000 to 1,300 metres, near the Col de l’Encrenaz. Forests, mountain pastures and distinctive mountain ridges shape the landscape. Those interested in hiking will find various named routes and trails through alpine meadows. Cattle farming is also part of the village’s present-day character: in summer, herds graze in the higher areas of the Col de l’Encrenaz.

Hiking trails and mountain scenery

After the Col de la Basse, the “Tour du Char des Quais” crosses an alpine meadow and continues to the summit of the Char des Quais. This moderately difficult hike is 5.7 kilometres long and includes 308 metres of elevation gain and 308 metres of descent; the stated duration is two hours. This makes it possible to consider the distance, elevation change and time required together when planning.

On the way to the Col Ratti, the route passes through an alpine meadow where Abondance cattle graze. With a little luck, chamois can be spotted on the slopes of the Roc d’Enfer. Another named route is the Circuit de l’Encrenaz: it runs via the Col de l’Encrenaz and through Foron along quiet mountain roads.

Mountain pastures and encounters with farming

The Alpage de l’Aup is an alpine meadow with views of Mont Blanc, the Aravis range, the Dents du Midi and the peaks of the Vallée d’Aulps. From May to September, dairy cows of the Abondance breed graze there. A 15-minute walk leads to the alpine pasture from the Col de l’Encrenaz; another access route is a hike from the village of Graydon along the “Le tour du Roc d’Enfer” loop. Seasonal conditions may affect access.

At the Alpage de l’Aup, visitors can watch the cows being milked free of charge every evening at around 5 p.m. Check this seasonal offer before your trip. At the Ferme du Caly, milking can be watched from early June to mid-September between 5 and 6 p.m.; here too, it is advisable to check the current dates for the season.

Relief Montagne offers guided mountain experiences from Chalet La Tapiaz in La Côte-D'arbroz, including outings with meals in an alpine hut as well as half-day or full-day hikes. Other activities include outings to discover the local fauna and flora, activities focused on edible plants and cooking workshops. Activities depend on weather conditions.

Nature conservation and visitor rules

At the Col de l’Encrenaz, near the Char des Quais within the Roc d’Enfer Natura 2000 site, there is a winter wildlife protection zone. A prefectural biotope protection order applies to the Col Ratti, Char des Quais and Vallon de Foron areas: motorised traffic is prohibited, and dogs must be kept on a leash. Check the regulations in force before your visit.

Local history and traditions

La Côte-D'arbroz was formerly a hamlet of Les Gets and became independent in 1784. A bishop’s decree dated 23 April 1722 had already allowed the village to build a church separate from Les Gets. These dates mark different stages in the village’s history. The name “Côte-d’Arbroz” also has a meaning of its own: it means “wooded slope”. Historically, the use and management of the forest played an important role in village life.

A local tradition is the annual “Emmontagnée” with Christian and Mathieu, their animals and many friends. It offers an opportunity to discover the tradition and sample regional products. At “Le vin chaud des Darbelains”, the Darbelains association serves welcome drinks with mulled wine and small pastries on 31 December and on three Sundays in February. Check the current dates for both events for the year of your trip.

Discover more destinations: Bloye, Viuz-La-Chiésaz, Cusy, La Chapelle-Rambaud, Annecy-Le-Vieux, Les Praz-De-Chamonix, Praz-Sur-Arly, Cruseilles.

For the broader travel overview: Haute-Savoie.