GR96 (Variant) - Magland -> Col des Annes

1. The hike begins in Magland. The route climbs immediately and steeply above the valley along a steep and challenging forest trail. You leave the noise of the valley behind as you quickly gain elevation toward the high-altitude pastures. 2. As you emerge from the forest, the landscape opens up to a magnificent ridge traverse. The trail takes you from one panoramic summit to the next: you’ll pass successively through the Tête de la Sallaz (2,026 m) and the Tête des Muets (2,075 m). The atmosphere is ethereal, offering breathtaking views of the Mont Blanc range on one side and the Aravis massif on the other. 3. Continue along the ridgeline until you reach the Pointe du Château (2,104 m), the highest point of this section. After taking in the 360° panorama, begin the descent toward the Col de la Gueule à Vent, then enter the vast and wild Vormy alpine pasture, dotted with lapiaz. 4. Head to the Chalets de Vormy, the heart of this unspoiled alpine pasture. From the chalets, the trail crosses the pastures (passing beneath the Pointe d’Areu and the Tête du Château) to rejoin the classic route. You’ll finish this beautiful traverse by reaching the Col des Annes, facing the Pointe Percée. Caution: This alternative route is more technical and physically demanding than the classic route via Romme. It includes ridge sections that can be daunting (not recommended for those prone to vertigo) and requires stable weather conditions (highly exposed to thunderstorms). Hiking boots are required; don’t set out without an IGN map of the area, and check the weather forecast before you leave—conditions can change quickly at high altitudes.