This easy circular hike will lead you through an enchanting environment, rich in both nature and history. The hike offers a full immersion in the natural beauty of the Champorcher Valley, guiding you along ancient mule tracks, alpine pastures, and most notably, a charming forest. Additionally, you’ll visit several historic hamlets of Champorcher: Chardonney, Ronchas, Perruchon, and Petit Mont Blanc.
After parking your car in the large square in Chardonney, head right of the residential complex, following the asphalt road that descends slightly to the right. Continue along the road, which runs close to another building. From there, find the start of trail no. 9E on the right side of the building. The trail passes a retaining wall and enters the forest, where you’ll notice various old walls and terraces. Until after World War II, these terraces were used for growing rye, hemp, and vegetables. The trail gently climbs through the old terraces, now covered by the forest. The trees become denser, eventually turning into a large pine and larch forest. After completing the climb under these towering green giants, you’ll emerge into alpine pastures and follow a mule track that leads to a paved road. Turn left and follow the road for a few hundred meters until you reach Petit Mont Blanc. Walk through this beautiful hamlet, which features a charming mill and distinctive stone and wooden houses. Then, descend along the mule track/trail no. 9B, which will bring you to Perruchon, another quaint village from bygone times. After exploring this hamlet, take the trail that descends towards the valley floor. You will arrive at Ronchas, which we recommend crossing via the mule track, and then proceed to Chardonney. After passing Ronchas, cross the road and find the path that descends towards the old village of Chardonney, aiming for the Chapel of Madonna delle Grazie. This charming little church, dating back to 1779, features a wooden spire with raised elements and a painted surface, traditionally commissioned in 1873 by Abbé Pierre Chanoux. Once you arrive in the village, you can rest at one of the many bars. We also suggest visiting the Hemp Ecomuseum inside the Maison de Thomas, the old mill, and the "Lou Dzeut" Cooperative, where handwoven hemp fabric is still produced on traditional wooden looms.
Technical notes: Suitable for families. Very easy circular hike.
