Mount Colombier by "la Fullie" and Cochette pass

Mount Colombier is unmistakable with its impressive silhouette, towering over 2000m hight.

From Praz Gelaz car park and pastures, the trail climbs up the the Fullie chalets, nested in the pasture at the foot of Mount Colombier. The setting is idyllic and the climb through the meadow very pleasant.

After a while, the slope will increase and you will reach the forest and its welcome shade. The trail then reaches Cochette pass ("col de la Cochette") from which you can see the summit, at the end of the ridge.

The climb isn't finished yet, but effort goes unnoticed with such a beautiful scenery on both sides of the trail.

What a reward when you reach the summit ! An amazing 360° panorama over Annecy lake and Mont-Blanc, as well as the whole Bauges massif !

To make your way back, go down towards Rossane chalet. The goats take their summer quarters in these mountain pastures. Make sure to close the fences behind you.

You may meet herding and guard dogs protecting the cattle. The mountain is a wonderful place for a hike, but also a workspace to be respected !

Departure : car park under the Praz Gelaz chalets and pastures.

1/ At the first crossing of the track, turn right towards Praz Gelaz.

2/ Cross the creek and leave the Praz Gelaz chalets on your right to reach the pass and the Fullie chalets, in about half an hour.

3/ Behind the chalets, a trail leads to a meeadow. Go up following a large trail.

4/ Above the forest, the trail crosses the large slopes to the left under the cliffs, and reaches the forestry road leading to the Cochette pass (1694m). Follow the GR/GRP markings all the way up.

5/ Once at the pass, turn right and climb the ridge leading to the summit.

6/ The descent is via the other ridge, towards Rossane chalets.

7/ Frome there, follow the trail along the mountainsidev, reach the Cochette pass, and follow the track all the way down.

8/ Once you reach the forestry road, turn left to return to the car park.