Leschaux Rocks (Loop) - Hike

Step-by-Step Guide: From Les Frachets to the Col de Cenise: 25 min. Continue on foot along the farm road that starts in front of the Les Frachets farm. The climb is gentle along a wide trail. You’ll cross the alpine pastures until you reach the Croix du Felay. From the cross, continue along the trail where the vast plateau and the pass come into view between the Rochers de Leschaux on the right and the Bargy mountain range on the left. From the Cenise Pass to the Rochers de Leschaux: 1 hr 20 min. Continue toward the “Rochers de Leschaux,” cross the pasture, and follow the rocks until you reach the sign pointing to the “Rochers de Leschaux.” The route continues through the Lapiaz (cracked limestone). You’ll pass by cairns built by enthusiastic hikers. When you reach the cross, you’ll be at the summit of the Rochers de Leschaux, where you can admire a breathtaking panoramic view. From the Rochers de Leschaux to the Solaison Plateau: Head toward Solaison; the trail descends into a valley. You’ll encounter a few somewhat steep sections where using your hands may be helpful. It’s not uncommon to spot ibex in this area. The trail runs along a cliff and descends into a spruce forest. Continue toward the pastures and cross through them. From the Solaison Plateau to the Col de Cenise: 1 hr 5 min Once you reach the Solaison Plateau, head toward the “Grotte de la Glacière,” passing near the Restaurant des Rocailles.—Avoid this route if the ground is wet.—The trail winds through a forest. The climb along the cliff requires some caution: the trail is steep and sometimes slippery, and you’ll need to cross several crevassed lapiaz formations. You’ll pass by the “Grotte de la Glacière,” a chasm housing a nearly permanent snowfield from which a chill draft escapes. Once you reach Le Perthuis, follow the signs toward Col de Cenise. Once at the pass, head toward Petit-Bornand until you reach the Cenise chalets, where you’ll return to your starting point. This hike can be done in the opposite direction, but it’s a bit more technical that way.