Les Carroz-D'arâches: Hiking, Chapels and Mountain Activities

Les Carroz-D'arâches brings together mountain hikes, seasonal activities and traces of local history. This offers visitors a range of interests to consider when planning their stay: a themed trail with riddles, an easy family hike, a bike park, ski access to the Grand Massif and historic religious buildings.

Hikes between a themed trail and an alpine farm

The “Disparition à la Mine” themed trail is 4 km long and features frescoes and riddles. The hike along the themed trail starts in the Pas à l’Âne district, a 15-minute walk from the village centre. The trail continues to the hamlet of La Colonnaz and its small chapel. Check the trail signs at the entrance before your visit; conditions on the trail may change.

The Alpage et Lac de l’Airon hike starts at the cable car’s mountain station. It is an easy family hike for all ages and takes 30 to 45 minutes; along the way, there are views of the Massif des Aravis. At the alpine farm reached by the route, visitors can eat at the restaurant, fish for trout and buy cheese directly from the farm. These visitor options are seasonal. The cable car also operates seasonally, so check its operating hours before setting out on the hike.

Different features matter when choosing between the two hikes: the duration and family-friendly nature of Alpage et Lac de l’Airon are specified; “Disparition à la Mine” features frescoes and riddles and leads to La Colonnaz. This can help you choose a tour based on the kind of experience you are planning.

Seasonal activities and access rules

Les Carroz Bike Park has seven downhill trails with a combined length of more than 14 kilometres. Its operating hours are seasonal. Les Carroz also offers ski-in/ski-out access to the Grand Massif; the ski area also operates seasonally. If cycling or skiing is a focus of your trip, check the relevant operating period before making plans.

The “Luge sur rail 4 saisons” has age and height requirements: from age 4 and a height of 1.05 m, visitors can use it when accompanied by an adult. From age 9 and a height of 1.40 m, visitors can ride the track alone or accompany someone else. Check these access requirements again before your visit.

Chapels and local history

The Chapelle ronde de Ballancy was built in 1839 and repaired in 1984. The Eglise de la Frasse dates from 1787 and was consecrated in 1827. The dates refer to different events: for the chapel, its construction and a later repair are recorded; for the church, its origins and consecration. This distinction helps clarify the meaning of each pair of dates.

The Chapelle de Ballancy, the oratory and the Eglise de la Frasse also served as stops during the Rogations celebrations. This religious tradition thus connects these three religious buildings beyond their individual histories.

Getting there

Les Carroz can be reached via the A40 motorway and the Cluses exit.

Discover more destinations: Saint-Félix, Montmin, Seyssel, Le Bouchet-Mont-Charvin, Bonneville, Bonne, Passy, Le Petit-Bornand-Les-Glières

For the regional travel overview: Haute-Savoie.