Malatraix

Malatraix is a summit and ridge in the Swiss Prealps, rising above Lake Geneva in the municipality of Villeneuve (VD), canton of Vaud. The top stands at 1,931 m, while the rocky stretch of its southwestern ridge reaches 1,768 m. Hikers come for the lake panorama and for the ridge walk that links it with its famous neighbours.

Where is Malatraix?

The mountain belongs to Villeneuve, a small town at the eastern tip of Lake Geneva on the Riviera Vaudoise. Its coordinates are roughly 46.40 N, 6.975 E. Malatraix forms part of the range running between the Rochers de Naye and the Tour d'Aï, which ends at the Pointe d'Aveneyre (2,026 m). From the ridge the lake lies far below.

What will you see?

The reward is the view over Lake Geneva and the surrounding rock peaks. The ridge path continues from Malatraix toward the Col de Chaude and on to the Rochers de Naye. Route descriptions call this walk shorter and less exposed than the usual ascent from the Col de Jaman. Be aware, though, that some sections are exposed, and on the climb from Villeneuve a chain helps you up the last steep stretch before the top.

How do you get to Malatraix?

Two approaches are described most often.

• From Villeneuve. The route begins near the railway station. The first 2.5 km or so follow a steep forest path. Past a cabin the trail becomes exposed in places, and the chain appears just before the summit. From the top you can head toward Roche; the descent takes almost 3 hours.
• From Roche. The climb from Roche station is long and steep, but hikers who have done it say the view from the ridge makes up for the effort.

There is also a loop via Grandchamp of about 10 km with around 525 m of ascent, with a few passages that need care. Check current conditions and signage before you set out, particularly on the exposed sections.

When should you go?

The trails cross mountain terrain with rocky parts and a chain, so choose a season when the ridge is free of snow and ice. Pick a clear day, because visibility makes the lake view. Wear sturdy footwear, carry plenty of water and leave enough time for the descent, which in one described variant lasts nearly three hours.

What else is nearby?

The Rochers de Naye, the Tour d'Aï and the Pointe d'Aveneyre are all close. The last of these is reached by a T2-grade route of about 3 hours from the Col de Chaude, passing the Pertuis d'Aveneyre and following white-red-white markings. The nearest hut is the Refuge du Petit-Tour. Many walkers combine these peaks into longer ridge days.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Malatraix? The summit is 1,931 m above sea level. The rocky part of the southwestern ridge reaches 1,768 m.

Which municipality is it in? Villeneuve, in the canton of Vaud, Switzerland, at the eastern end of Lake Geneva.

Is the hike difficult? The ascent can be steep and in places exposed, and there is a chain before the summit on the Villeneuve side. The climb from Roche is described as tough. It is not a stroll for sandals.

Where should I start? Near the station in Villeneuve or at Roche station. Both routes reach the ridge and its lake view, and from Malatraix you can continue toward the Col de Chaude and the Rochers de Naye.