Dent du Chat

Dent du Chat rises above Bourdeau in Savoie, France, right along the western shore of Lac du Bourget. The peak reaches 1,390 metres above sea level and forms a rocky, unmistakable ridge that dominates the skyline for miles around — visible from the lake itself as well as from the surrounding valleys and the towns that ring the water. It's one of the defining landmarks of this part of Savoie, easily spotted from Bourdeau, Aix-les-Bains, and Chambéry.

How do you get to Dent du Chat?

Most hikers start from Bourdeau or one of the other lakeside villages, where marked trails climb steadily up toward the ridge. The ascent demands reasonable fitness: the elevation gain from the lakeshore to the summit is substantial, and the final stretches turn steep and rocky. Parking near trailheads on the outskirts of Bourdeau is the usual starting point — the path winds through forest before opening onto the exposed, scenic sections of the ridge. Sturdy hiking boots are worth packing, since the terrain underfoot is often loose stone and uneven rock.

What will you see at the top?

The view is the whole point of the climb. From the Dent du Chat ridge, the panorama takes in all of Lac du Bourget, the largest natural lake in France, along with the towns of Aix-les-Bains and Chambéry spread along its banks. On clear days, further mountain ranges of Savoie and the Alps come into view as well. The ridge itself is rocky and, in places, exposed — a combination that draws both hikers chasing the view and paragliders, who use the surrounding slopes as a natural launch point.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring, summer, and early autumn offer the driest trails and the best visibility. In summer, an early start helps you avoid both the midday heat on the climb and crowds on the most popular stretches. In winter, the upper ridge can hold snow and ice, calling for proper gear and mountain experience — for most visitors, it's not the season to attempt the ascent.

Who is this hike for?

The Dent du Chat trail suits hikers with moderate to good fitness who are used to longer mountain ascents. It isn't a casual family stroll — it takes time, stamina, and care on the rocky, exposed sections near the edges. For landscape photographers and anyone chasing a wide panorama, though, it's one of the most rewarding spots in the Lac du Bourget area.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to climb Dent du Chat? Depending on the trail and starting point, the ascent from the lakeshore typically takes several hours one way, so it's worth setting aside a full day for the round trip.

Is the summit suitable for beginners? The trail requires good fitness and caution on rocky, exposed ridge sections, making it better suited to hikers with some mountain experience than to complete beginners.

What can you see from the Dent du Chat ridge? The ridge overlooks Lac du Bourget and the towns of Aix-les-Bains and Chambéry, with further Savoie mountain ranges visible on clear days.

Is the area used for paragliding? Yes, the slopes of Dent du Chat are a known paragliding launch site, taking advantage of the thermal conditions above the lake valley.