Platé Desert

A mineral masterpiece facing Mont Blanc

Just a stone’s throw from the Arve Valley, the Désert de Platé is a veritable geological sanctuary. Perched at an altitude of over 2,000 metres in the Fiz massif, this spectacular limestone plateau, shaped by glaciers, reveals a unique mineral universe in the heart of the Alps, facing the Mont-Blanc massif.

Not to be missed An exceptional listed landscape

Listed as a protected natural site since 1998, the Désert de Platé is a veritable geological gem in Haute-Savoie. Located between Passy, Flaine and the Fiz massif, it covers almost 2,000 hectares. This vast karstic plateau is home to one of Europe’ s largest lapiaz formations: a maze of faults, gullies and crevasses carved into the limestone by thousands of years of erosion. This mineral, almost lunar landscape is like a natural fortress in the heart of the Alps. Accessible on foot in summer, the site fascinates hikers and naturalists alike with its raw beauty, biodiversity and sense of immensity. A unique place, timeless, between sky and rock.

Experience A discreet but precious ecosystem

Beneath its arid, mineral exterior, the Désert de Platé conceals an unsuspected wealth of natural beauty. Between the limestone faults and rocks sculpted by time, a rare alpine flora flourishes, with endemic plants perfectly adapted to the extreme conditions. In the quieter areas, you can spot ibex, marmots and, if you’re lucky, rock ptarmigan and ermines, both discreet and protected species. The site is also home to a wide variety of insects and mountain birds. This fragile ecosystem is naturally preserved by the altitude and isolation of the plateau, but also by the respect shown by walkers. Here, every step counts: by following the signposted paths and observing without disturbing, everyone contributes to the protection of this living heritage. A discreet but essential nature, to be contemplated with humility.

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4 seasons Living nature all year round

A veritable natural gem, the Désert de Platé can be explored with the seasons. In summer, you can explore the mineral landscapes along signposted footpaths and observe the discreet alpine fauna: ibex, marmots, ptarmigan, etc. In autumn, the silence and golden colours reinforce the impression of immensity. In winter, the plateau becomes a wild setting for snowshoeing and ski touring enthusiasts. In spring, the flora is reborn in the limestone interstices, revealing rare and fragile species. Listed as a protected site, this unique area is a great place to get away from it all, watch the sights and enjoy the peace and quiet all year round. A 4-season destination, ideal for lovers of unspoilt mountain scenery and life-size sensations.