Looking for an exciting outdoor activity around Lake Bourget? The via ferrata by the Lake Bourget near Dent du Chat is perfect for beginners. Just a short hike from the Col du Chat, this scenic Savoie route offers breathtaking views and two distinct paths to climb. In this article, I’ll take you through both routes of the Roc du Cornillon via ferrata. I’ve completed it three times, once under stormy skies and twice in glorious sunshine. You’ll find photos from each trip to see how dramatically the scenery and mood can change.
How to Access the Roc du Cornillon Via Ferrata
The Lake Bourget via ferrata is easily accessible from the Col du Chat parking area. The approach trail is about a 20-minute hike through a shaded forest, making it ideal even on hot summer days. The trail is a bit rugged in places but not technically difficult. Once you reach the start of the route, it’s time to gear up, harness, helmet, and carabiners on!
Route 1 – Primevère à Oreille d’Ours: A Scenic Beginner Via Ferrata
The first route of the Lake Bourget via ferrata is known as Primevère à Oreille d’Ours, named after a rare alpine flower found here. The route begins after passing through a small metal gate.
You cross a few suspended beams, and the exposure quickly increases. If you’re unsure about heights, don’t worry, there’s an early escape option. The views over Lake Bourget and the surrounding mountains are absolutely stunning, especially on clear days.
The route then descends a reverse ladder, passes through a cave-like tunnel, and continues on the other side of the Roc du Cornillon ridge. This section is both fun and varied, with more airy passages and a unique monkey bridge to cross.
As the clouds started to gather during one of my visits, we had to move quickly. The light changed dramatically, adding a moody atmosphere to the climb. Luckily, the storm held off just long enough!
Route 2 – Le Rocher du Cornillon: Easy Climb with Panoramic Views
The second route, Rocher du Cornillon, is shorter and slightly easier (rated PD+). It involves minimal contact with the rock and focuses more on the fixed structures, like ladders and metal steps. This makes it an excellent intro for first-timers or those nervous about exposure.
The views from this section are just as breathtaking, with panoramic scenes of Lake Bourget, the Alps, and the lush green slopes below. On my third visit, the weather was perfect, with clear skies and glowing light over the lake.
Arrival of the Via Ferrata and the Roc du Cornillon Viewpoint
The Lake Bourget via ferrata ends near the Roc du Cornillon panoramic viewpoint. From here, you get one of the best views of the entire lake. If you look closely, you can even see the runway near Aix-les-Bains—watching planes take off and land so close to the water is pretty surreal.
On a sunny day, the scenery transforms completely, the lake looks absolutely stunning. From the edge, you can even spot the runway; it’s incredible to see planes taking off and landing so close to the water.
This via ferrata is one of the most beautiful in the region: its view of Lake Bourget is stunning. Although it’s ideal for beginners, I still recommend the Cordée des Dahuts via ferrata in Faverges-Seythenex. It’s much more accessible, shorter, and significantly less vertiginous. However, if you have a fear of heights, I wouldn’t recommend taking up via ferrata at all…
Technical Details
Ascent: 20 minutes
Return: 15 minutes
Estimated time: 45 minutes
Here are the estimated times provided for the two sections of the Roc du Cornillon via ferrata. However, I find them to be quite inaccurate, as even with my beginner friends, we were much faster.
Rocher du Cornillon route
Starting Elevation: 800 m
Route Length: 120 m
Estimated Time: 45 minutes
Exposure: south
Difficulty: PD+
Primevère à oreille d’ours route
Starting Elevation: 820 m
Route Length: 250 m
Estimated Time: 1h
Exposure: north and east
Difficulty: AD+
Difficulty Ratings Explained
The Roc du Cornillon via ferrata is rated PD+/AD+.
- F (Easy): No difficulty
- PD (Fairly Easy): Suitable for children and beginners
- AD (Moderately Difficult): Vertical sections and/or bridge crossings
- D (Difficult): Fairly physical vertical sections
- TD (Very Difficult): Physical sections with overhangs, requiring strong arms!
- ED (Extremely Difficult): For experienced climbers in good physical condition
If you’re looking for a beginner-friendly via ferrata near Lake Bourget, this one offers the perfect mix of scenery, accessibility, and adventure. Don’t forget to pack your swim gear, you’ll want to jump in the lake after the climb!
Cool Down in Lake Bourget After the Climb
After completing the Lake Bourget via ferrata, there’s no better way to recover than with a swim in the lake itself. Several access points near Bourdeau or Aix-les-Bains make it easy to take a refreshing dip surrounded by mountains. Trust me, you’ll have earned it.
Is the Roc du Cornillon via ferrata suitable for kids?
Yes, especially the Rocher du Cornillon route (PD+), but adult supervision and proper gear are essential.
Can you swim at Lake Bourget after the climb?
Absolutely—there are several access points near Bourdeau and Aix-les-Bains for a refreshing dip.
