Hiking Grammont near Lake Geneva is a beautiful adventure, and while I didn’t quite make it to the top, my journey was still rewarding. I reached about 1,000 meters above the Miex parking area, which offered stunning views of the lake. Here’s my story, especially for those who might be apprehensive about heights or dealing with cramps.
Getting There
To reach Miex, the starting point for the hike, you can use public transport:
- From Vouvry: PostAuto Schweiz operates a bus that runs to Miex five times a day. The journey takes about 15 minutes
- From Geneva: You can take a train to Vouvry and then catch the bus to Miex. The total travel time is approximately 2 hours. Use the SBB app with the following destination: “Miex, Le Flon”
Overview of the Hike
Grammont is classified as a T2 hike, meaning it’s suitable for hikers with moderate experience. Here are some key points to consider:
- Trail Conditions: The hike is generally well-marked and does not have exposed spots, making it a great option for those who are afraid of heights. Although the last segment of the hike can be quite narrow and steep.
- On the First Segment which starts from Miex Le Flon Parking place, head out to Taney. You will have 2 options: The wide path or the narrow path, The first one( 1 hour and 20 minutes) is will take longer than the latter(1 hour) as it is less steep. Either way both paths are steep at around 400 meters elevation over 2.5 kilometres .
- The Mid part of the Hike is when you reach the village Taney. This section is rather flat and is a welcome respite from all segments of this hike. Here you’ll see the beautiful Lac de Taney, which on a warm summer day is another respite … from the heat this time.There are a number of restaurants at this area.
- Final Segment: While the majority of the trail is manageable, the last section to the summit is narrow and steep. This is where I encountered cramps, which prevented me from reaching the top. Much care should be taken descending this path. The panoramic view of the lake makes it all worth it…. my friends say.
- Bivouac Opportunities: At the summit, I noticed several hikers bivouacking, enjoying the serene environment and breathtaking views. If you’re looking for bivouac spots in Switzerland, Grammont is a fantastic choice!
About Taney
Tourism in Taney began to flourish around 1880 with the construction of mountain hotels, including the Hôtel du Lac de Taney, built by the Reichenbach family. The area became popular for its serene lake and beautiful landscapes, attracting both visitors and researchers.
Later in the 20th century, the site was granted protected status to preserve its natural environment. Thanks to conservation efforts, it is now part of a nature reserve, offering a peaceful escape for hikers and nature lovers while safeguarding its ecological value.
Tips for Hikers
If you’re considering this hike, here are some tips to ensure a smooth experience:
- Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of water to avoid cramps. I learned this the hard way! Start with getting used to drinking 3 litres of water the day before. At Taney I didn’t see a free potable water fountain but there are restaurants there where you can buy water.
- Pace Yourself: Take breaks as needed, especially on the steeper sections. Why not have a swim at lake Taney!
- Footwear: Wear sturdy hiking boots to navigate the rocky terrain comfortably.
- Check Weather Conditions: Always look at the forecast before heading out to ensure a safe hike.
Conclusion
Even though I didn’t reach the summit, the views I experienced were more than enough to make the hike worthwhile. The beauty of Lake Geneva and the surrounding mountains is truly breathtaking. For those who are cautious about heights or dealing with cramps, Grammont offers a manageable adventure with the added bonus of potential bivouac spots.
If you have any questions about the hike or need more tips, feel free to ask! Happy hiking!