Saint-Martin-Bellevue: Nature, Golf and History

When planning a stay in Saint-Martin-Bellevue, nature observation, views, cultural heritage and leisure offer a variety of ways to explore the area. At the Étang de la Lèche, the focus is on the circular trail and identifying plants; the Belvédère offers views across the landscape, and the Église Saint-Martin is associated with medieval pilgrimage history. Golf, club activities and local events add to the options.

Circular trail and landscape views

The Étang de la Lèche is in Saint-Martin-Bellevue, near the hamlet of Chapalliers. The nature area was designed especially for people with limited mobility. A 700-metre circular trail connects sections of Salève gravel and wooden boardwalks. Two boardwalks make it possible to observe the natural surroundings; an arboretum along the trail helps visitors identify forest plant species. On a walk, you can combine different ways of observing nature: take in the surroundings from the boardwalks and learn about forest plants in the arboretum.

In the centre of the village, the Belvédère de Saint-Martin-Bellevue offers panoramic views of Mont Saint-Martin, the Fillière Valley, the Parmelan and part of the Aravis range. Facilities include an orientation table, parking, a picnic area and public toilets. The panorama offers a different focus from the Étang: here, the emphasis is on views of several named landscape features, while the nature area focuses on the circular trail, observation boardwalks and plant identification.

Pilgrimage history and golf

In the Middle Ages, the Église Saint-Martin was a stopping place for Austrian pilgrims travelling to Santiago de Compostela. Several objects in the church are protected as historic monuments, including a Baroque altarpiece and a statue of Saint Martin. The church thus offers two historical perspectives: its role as a stopping place on a pilgrimage and its protected furnishings. For travellers interested in culture, it provides a specific connection to local history alongside the area's nature and landscapes.

The Golf du Belvédère has a 9-hole course. Individual holes are between 100 and 350 metres long; a round of nine holes can be played in under two hours. Hole lengths and potential playing time offer different points of reference when planning a round of golf into your day. Course specifications may change; check the latest information before playing. The Club House is also open to non-golfers and serves items including pizza, quiche, ice cream and sweets. The offerings may change; if a particular dish is important to your visit, check what is currently available.

Sports and events

AFR Saint-Martin-Bellevue also accepts non-residents; participation requires a mandatory family membership. The programme includes more than 20 sports, cultural, leisure and relaxation activities for different age groups. Programmes and membership conditions may change from year to year, so it is worth checking the latest details before taking part. A pump track complements the sports area in the village centre.

Saint Martin Loisirs organises various local events in Saint-Martin-Bellevue, including a village festival, a flea market and a large cabaret show. The specific programme may change. If a particular event will shape your stay, check the latest dates before making plans.

When looking for a hotel in Saint-Martin-Bellevue, you can start by choosing your focus: nature observation at the Étang, views from the village centre, the church's history, or sports and events. You can also compare the kinds of activities on offer: a nine-hole round can be played in under two hours, while the trail at the Étang is 700 metres long and includes observation boardwalks and an arboretum. These different measures can help you weigh up your interests and the time you have available for your stay.

Discover more destinations: Combloux, Le Praz De Lys, Metz-Tessy, Publier, Les Esserts, Neydens, Vétraz-Monthoux, Menthonnex-en-Bornes

Go to the broader travel overview: Haute-Savoie.