Discover the Belle au Bois waterfall

Over 30 metres high, the impressive Belle au Bois waterfall is a free natural site not to be missed during your stay in Megève. Accessible from the village centre, this little corner of paradise is a photographer's and nature lover's delight. Young and old alike can't fail to be amazed by this place, which seems to have come straight out of a fairytale. A footbridge has been laid out so you can admire it from a whole new angle.

Depending on your level of fitness, you can choose to access it on foot or as part of a thrilling canyoning session. For the more adventurous, you might like to take a dip in the crystal-clear waters - but be warned, the water temperature is very cool, even in summer!

The Belle au Bois waterfall, Megève.

- © Yoh photography / Shutterstock

🚌How do I get to the Belle au Bois waterfall?

The Belle au Bois waterfall is nestled in the heart of the forest, less than a kilometre from Megève town centre. So it's easily accessible on foot, by taking the Creux de Saint-Jean hiking trail. It takes around 1? hours to walk there and back - or much longer, if you prefer to take your time and rest at the foot of the waterfall.

There are a number of signposted paths leading from Megève town centre, so all you have to do is follow the signs to quickly reach this must-see spot. The route takes you along pretty paths, sometimes shady, sometimes sunny, before you cross a small stone bridge... No doubt you'll enjoy the route as much as the destination.

The Belle au Bois waterfall, Megève.

- © Yoh photography / Shutterstock

How difficult is this walk?

This walk - which takes in the Chemin du Praz and part of the Chemin du Calvaire - is accessible to all. However, be careful, especially at the end of the route, as the rock faces can be slippery in wet weather. We therefore advise you to exercise extreme caution, especially with young children. For safety reasons, access to the waterfall may sometimes be closed in winter. Please note that pets are allowed on the course, provided they are kept on a lead.

"This is a pleasant walk, but there are still some big climbs. The last few metres to get to the waterfall are a bit tricky, but you can also just enjoy seeing the waterfall from above." - Coralie, tourist staying in Megève.

Part of the path leading to the Belle au Bois waterfall runs through the Megève forest.

- © MARTIN Florent / Shutterstock

Canyoning at the Belle au Bois waterfall

Do you want to plunge into the heart of nature... both literally and figuratively? The Belle au Bois waterfall is a popular spot for canyoning enthusiasts. With its jumps, whirlpools, abseiling and natural slides, the Belle au Bois canyon is a daring and adrenalin-fuelled experience.

Several agencies share this juicy business, offering canyoning trips supervised by experienced guides, such as O'Speed. Expect to pay around fifty euros per person for a half-day trip (minimum age 12). Remember to book your activity in advance!

© Canyoning de la Belle au bois à Megève / Youtube

⭐Where to sleep next to the Belle au Bois waterfall?

The Belle au Bois waterfall is located close to the Mont d'Arbois golf course. If you want to stay as close as possible to this natural wonder, you can opt for one of the many hotel or rental accommodation options available in the area.

With its Swiss chalet feel and strategic location opposite the ski lifts, La Ferme du Golf is ideal for those looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of the town centre. The only drawback is that this accommodation is not accessible to people with reduced mobility.

 La Ferme du Golf Megève

La Ferme du Golf

La Ferme du Golf is located opposite the Megève ski lifts and the Mont d'Arbois golf course.
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🍴Where to eat near the Belle au Bois waterfall?

If you want to eat during your walk, head to the Le Refuge du Calvaire restaurant, which serves traditional mountain cuisine. Depending on the weather, you can choose to sit comfortably in the wooded room, or relax on the sunny terrace surrounded by goats and horses... However, those on a budget will prefer to enjoy a sandwich at the foot of the waterfall: don't forget to make a diversion to one of the bakeries in the town centre to find what you're looking for, and don't forget to take a bottle of water with you!

To recharge your batteries after your hike, you can also choose to eat in one of the restaurants on the Mont d'Arbois golf course. If world cuisine appeals to you, don't miss the Kaito restaurant, which offers a brilliant take on Japanese cuisine. La Dame de Pic - Le 1920, run by chef Anne-Sophie Pic, serves refined dishes inspired by French haute cuisine. Be warned, though, that the location and reputation of these two establishments mean that their menus are (very) expensive. Best reserved for special occasions.

The terrace of the restaurant La Dame de Pic - Le 1920 offers guests a breathtaking view of the Alps.

- © Samuel Borges Photography / Shutterstock
by Jude JONES
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