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Free access · Year-round
Cascade de l'Arpenaz
A 270-meter waterfall overlooking the hamlet of Luzier, ranked as the 3rd highest waterfall in France and the highest in the French Alps. Protected natural site since 1991.
Zairon · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons
At a glance
Type
Natural waterfall
Access
Free · No charge
Duration
10–15 min walk from the parking lot
Best season
April – October (maximum flow in spring)
Parking
Free (parking at the base of the waterfall)
Dogs
Allowed
Stroller
Not suitable (forest trail)
Town
Sallanches
What is Cascade de l'Arpenaz
The Cascade de l'Arpenaz is a waterfall in the Faucigny massif located in the municipality of Sallanches, a few kilometers north of the town center. With a main drop of 270 meters followed by two secondary falls at its base, it is ranked as the 3rd highest waterfall in France and the highest in the French Alps.
The waterfall is fed by the Arpenaz torrent, also called Nant d'Arpenaz or La Laiteuse, which descends from the Platé massif from an altitude of 1,850 m and travels 4 km before joining the Arve. The name "Arpenaz" comes from the Celtic prefix "Ar" (flowing water) and the suffix "pen" (rocky head).
The site presents remarkable geological interest with its famous S-shaped rock fold, characteristic of Jurassic limestone series of the subalpine nappes. Classified as a natural site since 1991, it offers complete amenities: free parking, picnic areas, and starting points for hiking and mountain biking trails.
Activities
What you can do here
Practical
Practical information
Address
Route d'Oëx, hamlet of Luzier, 74700 Sallanches View on map
Coordinates
45,977° N — 6,642° E View on map
Altitude
543 m (base of the waterfall)
Admission
Free
Opening hours
Year-round. Impressive flow in spring during snowmelt.
Parking
Free (developed parking in immediate proximity to the waterfall)
Animals
Allowed
Accessibility
Trail not suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. Short walk but on forest terrain.
Access duration
10–15 min walk from the parking lot
Contact
Sallanches Tourism Office: 04 50 58 04 25
Access
How to get there
By car
From Sallanches center (~5 km), head toward the hamlet of Luzier to the north. Follow the « Cascade de l'Arpenaz » signs. Developed parking 1 km after the village of Luzier. Visible from the A40 motorway and national highway.
Open in MapsBy bike
Access possible by bike from Sallanches via the Luzier road. Departure point for marked mountain biking circuits from the waterfall parking lot.
Open in MapsWhen to visit
When to visit
The waterfall can be visited year-round. Its flow is most impressive in spring (April–May) during snowmelt. In summer, the flow decreases but the site becomes a popular swimming destination with its natural pool and shaded forest areas. Autumn offers a peaceful atmosphere with seasonal colors. The site can be crowded on weekends and during school holidays.
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Gallery
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FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Is entry to the Cascade de l'Arpenaz paid?
No. Entry to the Cascade de l'Arpenaz is free and accessible year-round. The developed parking nearby is also free.
How do I get to the Cascade de l'Arpenaz from Sallanches?
From Sallanches center, head toward the hamlet of Luzier to the north of the town. Pass through Luzier and continue for approximately 1 km. Free parking is available at the base of the Cascade de l'Arpenaz. Allow 5 km from the town center.
What is the best season to visit the Cascade de l'Arpenaz?
Spring (April–May) is the best time to visit the Cascade de l'Arpenaz with maximum flow during snowmelt. Summer allows you to enjoy the swimming pool at the base of the waterfall.
Can you swim at the Cascade de l'Arpenaz?
Yes. A natural pool at the base of the Cascade de l'Arpenaz allows for swimming in summer. The water is cold. A small stream sheltered by the forest is also accessible for children.
How much time should I allow for a visit to the Cascade de l'Arpenaz?
Allow 10 to 15 minutes of walking from the parking lot to reach the base of the Cascade de l'Arpenaz. On site, plan 1 to 2 hours to enjoy the waterfall, picnic, or swim.
Is the Cascade de l'Arpenaz accessible with a stroller?
No. The trail from the parking lot to the Cascade de l'Arpenaz passes through a forest area not suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. The waterfall remains visible from the road and parking lot.
Sources
Sources & verification
Multi-source verification at publication date. Information may change — confirm with the official operator before travelling.