The Dard Waterfall (Mont-Saxonnex)

The Dard Waterfall is located in the commune of Mont-Saxonnex, in the Bargy massif. It’s a very short walk, accessible in just 10 minutes from the parking area. The waterfall is accessible year-round.

This was the last waterfall I wanted to visit in the region, completing my extensive list of waterfalls around Lake Annecy. I first discovered it a few years ago when I went on a hike to Lake Bénit. However, it was only this week that I was able to return. I took the opportunity to redo the hike in the spring, when the snow was still present. The lake may be less turquoise, but the waterfall is even more impressive.

Lake Bénit in Summer
Lake Bénit

Walk to the Dard Waterfall in Mont-Saxonnex

The parking area is not difficult to find, unless you get distracted by a conversation in the car and miss it like I did :). That day, I had done an hour of flight training in the morning and suggested a short walk to my friend, who is also a student pilot. We set off from Annecy aerodrome and took about 40 minutes to reach the Dard Waterfall in Mont-Saxonnex. Knowing that the weather would cloud over later, I decided to go while the sun was still shining.

The Dard Waterfall from the viewing platform
The Dard Waterfall from the viewing platform

The Dard Waterfall flows into the Bronze River. It has a strong flow in the spring, during the snowmelt, or after a rain shower. This waterfall can be combined with the hike to Lake Bénit or those near the Chartreuse du Reposoir. However, be careful not to confuse it with the Dard Waterfall in Chamonix.

The Chartreuse du Reposoir and its lake
The Chartreuse du Reposoir

From the parking area, follow the path on the left side of the river. Trees were felled during a storm, so you will need to either step over them or go underneath. The base of the waterfall is accessible via a path, while the top can be reached by a log staircase that climbs up to a platform. There is a bench, but the barriers have been removed, so there is no longer any protection.

Bronz river
Log trail leading to the Dard Waterfall
Me in front of the Dard Waterfall

The little extra:

You can take a stroll near the church, which offers a lovely view of the valley. The church in Mont-Saxonnex, built on the cliff, is very picturesque.

Access:

Head towards Mont-Saxonnex, near Cluses. A sign indicates the path to the Dard Waterfall. Walk for about 10 minutes to reach the base of the waterfall.

Practical Information

Elevation gain: 33 m
Distance: 0.6 km
Route: return
Duration: 20 minutes round trip
Starting altitude: 804 m
Arrival altitude: 837 m