Dorchaux - N°6

Located on the West side of Col des Mosses, this sun-soaked trail wends its way through pastures and alpine meadows. After a steady climb, enjoy the reward of a magnificent panoramic view which will certainly put the smile back on the face of hikers who may have struggled somewhat on the ascent.

The departure point is on the corner of the Tourist Office building in the centre of Les Mosses. From here, follow the main road (direction La Comballaz) and pass in front of the Fontaines Hotel. After the hotel, take a right along the road which starts to climb. Follow this road which at first is a gentle slope and then becomes rather steep at the junction of the walking trails (1515m). Then, take the path to the right until you get to the small chalet by the skilift. Going beyond, take the little path which climbs its way up through the pastures for some 30 minutes until you get to the tarmac road « Sonna » at 1657m.

Next, in front of you and slightly to the right, the wide and steep stony trail winds its way up to the top of Dorchaux where you will arrive about 1 hour later. From this lookout point, you can simply marvel at the 360° panorama on the Les Mosses – La Lécherette plateau from one horizon to the other ; a majestic view over the Hongrin valley with its lake and its dam.

For the return trip, retrace your steps until you get back to the Sonna road at 1657m. Follow this road keeping to your left until it peters out. Turn yourself towards the track (slightly to your left) which goes through the pastures in the direction of the Arsat peak. When you come across a little chalet, make your way on the left to get back onto the road with its gentle descent. After 3 hairpin bends you will come to the junction underneath the skilift. Take a right, towards Les Mosses.

This new path will take you through wet pastures for about quarter of an hour. The rest of the return trip is then made on a tarmac road which you need to follow until you get back to the main road. Follow this to your right. Count a good 10 minutes before you find yourself back in Les Mosses, then go and relax on one of the many local terraces !

Option : cut out the ascent to Dorchaux (take off 1h45 from walking time).