Above Talloires, the Col de la Forclaz offers one of the finest views of Lake Annecy. There is no major border pass or legendary climb here: it is a balcony overlooking much of the lake. Paragliders flock here on fine days, and hikers can set off on several trails.
In brief
- Altitude: around 1,150 m, in the municipality of Talloires-Montmin.
- Free viewpoint, open year-round, with an orientation table.
- One of the region’s busiest paragliding launch sites.
- Trailheads for hikes to Rocher du Roux and La Tournette.
Read also: High mountain passes in Haute-Savoie: the most beautiful mountain passes to discover
The viewpoint overlooking Lake Annecy
The Montmin viewpoint at Col de la Forclaz is located at around 1,150 m and overlooks Lake Annecy. A trail leads to a second viewpoint at the La Pricaz chalet snack bar, where you can take in the Bauges, the Dents de Lanfon and La Tournette. Access is free year-round.
Beware of places with the same name: there is another Col de la Forclaz in Switzerland, between Martigny and Chamonix. This is the pass overlooking Lake Annecy.
Paragliding at Col de la Forclaz
The launch site at Col de la Forclaz, at around 1,266 m, offers panoramic views of the lake and is one of the busiest sites in Haute-Savoie. Park at the pass, then walk the rest of the way: vehicle access to the launch site is reserved for pilots with a permit.
For your first flight, book with a paragliding school or a tandem pilot. Our Paragliding around Annecy page provides information about the sites and practical details.
Read also: Paragliding around Annecy: map and practical information
Hikes starting from the pass
- Rocher du Roux: a hike starting from Col de la Forclaz.
- The walk through the hamlets of Montmin: easy and suitable for everyone.
- La Tournette (2,351 m): the highest peak around the lake, via Chalet de l’Aulp, starting from Montmin.
Find more routes in our selection of must-do hikes around Lake Annecy. About 2 km away, the Angon and Montmin canyons also offer introductory outings.
Where to eat at Col de la Forclaz
Several places to eat are located around the pass: Ferme de la Forclaz, a Savoyard restaurant serving its own cheeses, and Chalet La Pricaz, a 1906 chalet with a shaded terrace and views of the lake. Further down, on the lakeshore in Talloires, you’ll find fine-dining restaurants.
Practical information
| Altitude | Around 1,150 m (viewpoint); launch site at around 1,266 m |
| Municipality | Talloires-Montmin (74210) |
| Access | Drive to the pass; public parking; walk the final section to the launch site |
| Opening | Open year-round; free access |
| Facilities | Parking, public toilets, orientation table |
Combine your visit with
Combine a visit to the pass with a tour of Lake Annecy and a visit to Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard, on the same shore.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Col de la Forclaz?
Above Talloires, in the municipality of Talloires-Montmin, on the eastern shore of Lake Annecy.
What is the altitude of Col de la Forclaz?
The viewpoint is at around 1,150 m; the paragliding launch site is at around 1,266 m.
Can you paraglide at Col de la Forclaz?
Yes, it is one of the region’s busiest launch sites. For a tandem flight, book with a paragliding school or a tandem pilot.
Is Col de la Forclaz accessible in winter?
The viewpoint is listed as open year-round. Check road conditions when snow is expected.
Read also: Must-do hikes around Lake Annecy
