Iconic summit at 2,525 m elevation offering a 360° panorama over the Mont-Blanc massif, Beaufortain, Aravis, Fiz and Bauges ranges.
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Mont Joly is a 2,525 m summit located in the Beaufortain massif, on the border between Saint-Gervais-les-Bains, Megève and Les Contamines-Montjoie, in Haute-Savoie. A true natural viewpoint facing the Mont-Blanc massif, it offers an exceptional 360° panorama from its summit, where an orientation table is located. With its green slopes descending to the surrounding villages, Mont Joly is considered one of the finest viewpoints of the Mont-Blanc range.
Mont Joly is accessible via several hiking routes, with the main starting points at Saint-Nicolas-de-Véroce (Plateau de la Croix), Bettex via Les Communailles, Planay hamlet from Megève, or Baptieu hamlet from Les Contamines-Montjoie. The climb is challenging and sustained, crossing alpine meadows and forests before reaching the mineral ridges of the summit. Hikers walk among summer grazing herds (Tarine and Abondance cows, goats and sheep) whose milk is used to make Beaufort cheese. The final section, particularly exposed from the Mont Joly refuge onward, becomes more technical with steep and rocky passages with sparse markings, requiring great caution.
The summit features technical installations (mountain rescue radio relay, weather antennae) and a visitor logbook box. Hikers can reach the summit via two main variants: Épaule du Mont Joly (the most frequented route) or Panse (less-used route). The ascent passes through several remarkable points: Mont Joly refuge (2,002 m), Mont Géroux (2,288 m), and the arrival of the Épaule chairlift (closed in summer). On clear days, visibility extends to the most distant massifs, offering a unique reading of the Alpine relief. Mont Joly is also the culminating point of the Diagonale du Mont-Joly, a vertical kilometer race of 4 km and 1,000 m elevation gain, organized in summer and winter versions.
From Sallanches (A40 exit 20), reach Saint-Gervais-les-Bains then Saint-Nicolas-de-Véroce (D909). Parking at Plateau de la Croix. From Megève, reach Planay hamlet via Côte 2000 (direction Altiport). From Les Contamines-Montjoie, take the Notre-Dame-de-la-Gorge road (D902), turn right on the Echenaz path, continue to Baptieu parking.
Open in MapsSeasonal shuttles to Saint-Nicolas-de-Véroce from Saint-Gervais (line 13). Check Haute-Savoie Mobilités or the Tourist Office for schedules.
Open in MapsBike access possible to departure parking areas (Plateau de la Croix, Bettex, Planay), but the rest of the route is on foot only.
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Yes, access to Mont Joly is free and free of charge year-round. Only the Mont d'Arbois cable car (to shorten the route from Megève) is paid.
Mont Joly is accessible via several routes. The departure from Plateau de la Croix (Saint-Nicolas-de-Véroce) is the most direct: 4 km, 1,000 m elevation gain, approximately 3 hours ascent. From Bettex (Les Communailles): 5 to 6 hours round trip. From Megève (Planay hamlet): 6 to 8 hours round trip.
The Mont Joly hike is challenging and reserved for experienced hikers. Elevation gain of 850 to 1,200 m depending on the route. The slope is sustained after Pavillon du Mont Joly, with steep and rocky passages on the summit section (Épaule or Panse). Bring proper hiking boots, water and warm clothing.
No, there is no refuge at the Mont Joly summit. The Mont Joly Chalet-Refuge is located at 2,002 m elevation, before the final ascent. It offers meals and lodging by reservation. From the refuge, allow another 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the summit.
Yes, dogs are allowed on Mont Joly trails but must be kept on a leash, especially in alpine meadows where cattle, goats and sheep graze from June to September. Mont Joly is not located in a nature reserve.
The best period for Mont Joly extends from June to October. July and August offer the most stable conditions. September and early October are ideal for solitude and light. Late May and early June: persistent snowfields. In winter: ski touring or snowshoeing only.
Mont Joly is a challenging and exposed hike, reserved for experienced hikers accustomed to mountain terrain. The final section, after the refuge, is particularly technical with scree and steep poorly-marked passages. Beginners can hike to the Mont Joly refuge (2,002 m) to enjoy the panorama without continuing to the summit.
Yes, the Mont Joly Chalet-Refuge at 2,002 m offers traditional Savoyard cuisine from mid-June to late September. Panoramic terraces, Savoyard specialties, daily specials. Open daily in summer season. Reservation recommended: 04 50 93 10 10.
Multi-source verification at publication. Information may change — confirm with the official operator before travelling.
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