This hiking loop allows you to explore the high-altitude area of Laris, immersing yourself in a spectacular natural environment near the border with Piedmont. Although it is close to winter ski lifts (which are used to reach Laris-damon), the hike mostly avoids urbanized areas, traversing wild environments with lakes and high-altitude alpine pastures. This route will reveal a magnificent and tranquil place, far from the ski lifts (which are considered only as a means of transportation). The hike includes four lakes: Lake Laris, Lake Mulère, Lake Piana, and Lake Vercoche. Lake Vercoche offers incredible tranquility, perfect for a break by its dark blue waters. The lake, although natural, has a dam that was put into operation in 1953. Although the dam is only 2 meters high, it holds a reservoir of over 965,000 m³ of water, which includes both Lake Vercoche and Lake Piana. Lake Vercoche reaches a depth of 28 meters, and its waters feed the Vercoche stream and the Hône hydroelectric plant (in the valley below). The descent from Lake Vercoche will provide a panoramic view of the Monte Rosa massif and the Matterhorn.
First Segment: Laris-damon – Col Laris (Trail n° 5D and 5B) Once you’ve exited the cable car, head to the right of Bar Laris and find Trail n° 5D, which ascends through pastures and ski slopes, now covered in dense grass. The trail might be less visible at this point, but don’t worry. Aim for the obvious endpoint of the Laris ski lift (the lift farthest to the left of the ski area). Once you locate the lift's endpoint, follow the dirt road a few meters downhill and then find Trail n° 5B that climbs through the valley towards Col Laris. The trail ascends gently, away from the ski area, and is relatively clear thanks to several stone cairns. You will pass the ruins of Gran Comba (2289 m a.s.l.) and reach a plateau where you’ll encounter a prominent dirt road. Follow this road to the left; it crosses a stream and runs alongside Lake Laris (2493 m a.s.l.), eventually leading to Col Laris (2584 m a.s.l.).
Second Segment: Col Laris – Lake Vercoche – Laris-damon (Trail n° 5) From Col Laris, facing Champorcher, you’ll notice a trail branching off to the right, passing under the massive power line pylons. Follow this trail to a saddle situated between the two power lines. Descend into the valley leading to Lake Vercoche. This section of the trail might not always be obvious, so be sure to watch for cairns and markers. Although the trail is somewhat difficult to follow, it is relatively logical, running along the lower part of the valley before passing along a slight ridge to the left of Lakes Mulère (2305 m a.s.l.) and Piana (2246 m a.s.l.). Once at Lake Piana, find the trail that descends to the left towards Lake Vercoche (2217 m a.s.l.). It’s advisable to take a break by the lake’s edge. After a well-deserved rest, follow the trail along the right side of the lake to the trail that will return you to Laris-damon. This section of the trail is particularly scenic and panoramic. From Lake Vercoche, the trail features a gradual but long ascent along a hillside, followed by a gentle descent, reaching a saddle with reddish rocks (2232 m a.s.l.). From this point, you can enjoy views of the Monte Rosa and the Matterhorn, as well as the Laris area. The trail then descends to the left along the scree of the Bec Laris ridge and reaches a wet area among sparse trees. After about fifty meters, the trail changes direction sharply near a large rock, turning right/downhill. It then descends to cross the Laris stream and follows the left bank. Continue on the trail, with some ups and downs, which will lead you to the main dirt road. After about 600 meters, you will reach the cable car station again.
Technical Notes: Medium difficulty loop. The hike becomes significantly more challenging if the ski lifts are not used, as they reduce the total elevation gain and make the hike much more accessible to those with less physical preparation. The segment from Col Laris to Lake Vercoche is poorly marked and is recommended for more experienced hikers.
Variants:
- Col Laris (with ascent from Trail 5B and descent via Trail 5A; shorter loop but less interesting)
- Markers: 5D, 5B, 5A, 5
- Elevation Gain: 677 m
- Distance: 7 km
- Ascent Time (to Col Laris): 2h-2h30
- Return Time: 1h15-1h45
- Difficulty: E
- Col Laris (with departure and return from Chardonney using one of the two above-described loops)
- Adds 494 m elevation gain and 3.5 km distance
