The Fer à Cheval cirque, a breathtaking nature reserve

Nestling around 6km outside the village of Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval, the cirque is one of the most beautiful listed natural wonders in the Alps. The site is also France's second-largest mountain cirque, after Gavarnie in the Pyrenees. The cirque is also considered a Grand Site, meaning it is designated as one of the most emblematic in France and is protected under the 1930 law.

This loop is one of the best-known sites in Haute-Savoie. It is dominated by the Corne du Chamois and then rests on the slopes of the Tenneverge. The loop ends in the Griffe valley, with an incredible curve in the shape of a giant black limestone amphitheatre that is between 4 and 5 km long. Steep cliffs add to this natural spectacle, reaching heights of up to 2,000 metres.

Flora and fauna

With such a rich natural environment, it's hardly surprising that a host of animals and plants have found refuge here. No fewer than 800 species of plant, chamois, ibex and birds of prey live here all year round. As you stroll along, you'll come across bearded vultures, golden eagles, marmots, wild boar, hares and rock ptarmigan, as well as more than 28 species of orchid.

The 30 waterfalls

All the waterfalls were created by melting snow and glaciers flowing down the cliffs. Today, there are 30 vertiginous waterfalls gushing down the steep cliffs during the summer season. Among the best known are the Méridienne, the Fontaine de l'Or and the Lyre. The most famous is the Rouget waterfall, 90 metres high and nicknamed the Queen of the Alps.

🚌 How do I get there?

To complete this walk, you'll first need to go to the commune of Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval, in the direction of Chamonix. No matter where you're coming from, the road is magnificent. It's a magical drive through valleys, beautiful rivers and immense mountains. The small village of Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval has a rich heritage spanning nine centuries. The Pic de Tenneverge and Cheval Blanc can be seen in the distance from the village.

👨‍👩‍👦‍👦 Who is it for?

You can wander around this site with your family. In fact, this magical place is suitable for everyone. You can take several walks in and around the circus. From inside, you can enjoy incredible views directly over the valley, the cliffs and the surrounding mountains. The walks around the cirque are more accessible. You can choose between Fond de la Combe and Bout du Monde. For families, there are pony and horse rides available.

🕑 Hiking time

You can opt for the Bout du Monde hike, which is easy with an almost level path. The difference in altitude is 300 metres and takes around 1 hour 45 minutes. The path winds past the Giffre torrent, the valley, waterfalls and rivers. The Fond de la Combe hike takes around 3h-4h. This popular walk takes you to the Refuge de la Vogealle, at an altitude of 1,900 metres, and several waterfalls. The path is secured by steel cables and sturdy ladders. The more experienced can climb up to enjoy the view of the Pic de Tenneverge, at a height of 2,987 metres.

🗓️ When is the best time to do this hike?

There's no particular best time to go. It all depends on what you want to see. June is a particularly popular month, when the snow melts and you can enjoy a dozen or so waterfalls. In winter, put on your snowshoes or Nordic skis to hike the trails and discover the 14km long waterfall trail.

🚗 Parking

On the question of parking, it is possible to park at the Plan des Lacs, which is subject to a charge (€6 per car). It is advisable to arrive early to secure a space. There are toilets near the car park and at the Chalet du cirque du Fer à Cheval. There is also an information point with a souvenir shop.

👉 Other information

Some trails are accessible to people with reduced mobility and pushchairs. As this is a protected nature reserve, pets are not permitted.