Hiking in Sixt Fer à Cheval
Spectacular routes
In a classified siteThis authentic village, set against one of Europe’s largest mountain cirques, offers a multitude of accessible hiking trails, between majestic waterfalls, dense forests and panoramic peaks.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned hiker, you’re sure to find something to suit you among the hikes at Sixt Fer à Cheval.
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Easy hiking in Sixt: discovering the Cirque du Fer-à-Cheval
If you’re looking for an easy hike in Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval, the Cirque tour is a must. Accessible to the whole family, this loop trail immerses you in a grandiose setting, with limestone cliffs and over 30 waterfalls gushing from the heights, especially in spring.
- Distance: about 5 km
- Ascent: slight (+150 m)
- Duration: approx. 2 h
The well-marked trail alternates between wooded areas and lookouts. A perfect compromise between moderate effort and guaranteed amazement, ideal for a first discovery of the site.
Sixt- Bout du Monde hike: meet the waterfalls
The Bout du Monde hike is one of our most emblematic itineraries, a true immersion in the vertical world of the cirque. Following the valley floor, you’ll skirt the Giffre river until you reach the mythical “Bout du Monde”, a narrow gorge framed by impressive walls.
- Distance: 6 to 7 km round trip
- Ascent: +300 m
- Duration: 2h30 to 3h
This route offers a condensed version of spectacular scenery, with numerous views of the waterfalls. Ideal for contemplative walkers looking for an immersive and accessible Sixt Fer à Cheval Bout du Monde hike.
Mont Buet: a sporty hike to the summit of the Alps
Nicknamed the “Mont-Blanc des Dames”, Mont Buet reaches an altitude of 3,096 metres. This ascent is for experienced, well-equipped hikers. From Sixt, the route takes in the Bérard valley, then climbs steadily to offer spectacular views of the Mont-Blanc massif, the Aiguilles Rouges and neighbouring Switzerland.
- Distance: 20 km round trip
- Ascent: +1,800 m
- Duration: 9 to 11 h
This hike is often done over two days, with an overnight stay at the refuge, but the most enduring can envisage a round trip in a day. A must for lovers of wide open spaces and alpine challenges.
Refuge du Grenairon: a night in the mountains
Located at an altitude of 1,973 meters, the Refuge du Grenairon is a beautiful hiking destination with a unique panorama of the Sixt valley and the Haut-Giffre. The trail often starts from the village of Le Buet or from Salvagny, with a gradual ascent through the forest.
- Distance: approx. 8 km one way
- Ascent: +1,000 m
- Duration: 3 h 30 to 4 h
The refuge is ideal for a gourmet break or a night at altitude before continuing on to Mont Buet. A great stopover for those who want to discover the mountains in a different way.
Lac d’Anterne: a wild gem between Sixt and the Fiz mountains
The final jewel in this selection, Lac d’Anterne is a high-altitude lake nestled at 2,067 meters, surrounded by lunar landscapes and high-altitude meadows. From the parking lot at the Rouget or Lignon waterfalls, the trail climbs gradually up to a balcony with a breathtaking view of the Fiz mountains.
- Distance: 13 to 15 km round trip
- Ascent: +900 m
- Duration: 5 to 6 h
Ideal in spring or autumn, this tour offers Sixt Fer à Cheval hikers an excellent effort/landscape ratio. Lovers of tranquillity and wildlife will be delighted.
In the event of thunderstorms, the ski lifts close and it is not advisable to use the footpaths.
The Grand Massif is full of discoveries just a few minutes from Sixt. For more variety:
- Head for Flaine to hike the Désert de Platé
- Explore Les Carrozan authentic village and family activities.
- Stop off in Samoënsbetween heritage and paragliding.
Caution: In the event of thunderstorms, the ski lifts close and it is not advisable to use the footpaths.