A hike to discover an alpine farm

Presentation

Two hikes, two mountain pastures: come and meet the producers of Manigod.

  • Alpine pasture hike - © OT Manigod

In Manigod, some hikes offer far more than just magnificent views. They also provide a chance to discover a living mountain landscape, shaped over generations by farmers who maintain the alpine pastures and keep unique traditions alive.

As you follow the trail, take a moment to pause at one of our mountain farms. It is a wonderful opportunity to meet the people who bring the mountains to life, chat about their craft, and—why not?—leave with some delicious farmhouse cheese.

 
Family-friendly hike to an alpine farm
La Ferme de l'Étale: a gourmet stop on the Andran trail
Starting from the Col de la Croix Fry, take the "Tour de l'Andran" trail—an accessible hike that winds through forests and pastures, offering views of the Aravis mountain range.
Along the way, you will reach La Ferme de l'Étale, an alpine farm where producers welcome visitors during the warmer months. Here, cows graze all summer long, and their milk is transformed using traditional methods into AOP-certified farmhouse Reblochon and other local specialties.
It is the perfect spot to discover the daily life of a mountain farm, taste farmhouse products, or simply enjoy a friendly moment facing the peaks.
 
Challenging hike to an alpine farm
L'Aulp de Fier d'En Haut: on the way to Lac du Charvin
Another must-do route is the hike to Lac du Charvin, one of the most beautiful natural high-altitude lakes in the Aravis range. The trail starts from the "Sous l'Aiguille" car park.
Before reaching this remarkable natural site, the path crosses several active alpine pastures. L'Aulp de Fier d'En Haut welcomes hikers throughout the summer and sells cheese directly from the farm.
This encounter offers a chance to better understand the vital role alpine farmers play in preserving the landscape. Thanks to grazing, the meadows remain open, biodiversity is fostered, and the scenic vistas we admire today endure.
 
A living mountain landscape to preserve
In Manigod, agriculture is deeply intertwined with the mountains. Producers maintain the alpine pastures, pass on ancestral skills, and play an active role in preserving the natural heritage.
By choosing to buy directly from the farm, you support local agriculture, help sustain short supply chains, and contribute to the local economy.
A few simple actions also help preserve these working landscapes and natural spaces:
  • stay on marked trails;
  • carefully close gates behind you;
  • keep your dog on a leash near herds;
  • respect the farmers' work and the animals' peace;
  • take all your trash with you.
 
An authentic experience
Hiking in Manigod is about much more than just walking in the mountains.
It is about taking the time to chat with a producer, watch herds in the alpine pastures, understand how the cheeses that made the Aravis famous are created, and savor a piece of farmhouse Reblochon while gazing at the peaks.
Simple, genuine, and delicious encounters that embody the richness of a living mountain landscape.