Roc de Tormery

Roc de Tormery is a rocky summit rising to 1,135 metres in the Bauges massif, in the Savoie department of southeastern France. The ridge sits on the boundary between the communes of Chignin and La Thuile, forming one of the most recognisable landmarks on the southern spur of the massif.

Where exactly is Roc de Tormery?

The peak overlooks the small hamlet of Tormery, part of the commune of La Thuile. Most hikers set off from Lac de la Thuile, a lake at the foot of the massif, following a trail that climbs through forest and past rock outcrops before reaching the ridge. From up there, views open out toward the Isère valley and the wider Bauges range.

Why is it nicknamed "La Savoyarde"?

Locals have given the summit a second name: La Savoyarde. Seen from the right angle, the rock face and the outcrops around it are said to resemble the profile of a woman wearing the traditional headdress of the Tarentaise region - a classic case of pareidolia, where the eye picks out a familiar shape in an otherwise random rock formation. It is one of the reasons the summit draws walkers curious to spot the resemblance for themselves.

What is the history behind the rock?

In the early twentieth century, the cliff face above Tormery was at risk of collapsing onto the hamlet below. Reinforcement works followed, including a retaining wall built to hold back loose sections of rock. As part of that effort, an iron ladder was installed in 1913, and it is still used today by hikers tackling the steepest stretch of the ridge route.

What does the route to the summit and beyond look like?

The loop from Lac de la Thuile to Roc de Tormery covers roughly 7 kilometres with about 370 metres of combined ascent and descent. The climb up typically takes a little over an hour, the descent a similar amount of time, and the full outing - including a break at the top - runs to around two to two and a half hours. At the summit, close to 1,110 metres, stands a cross known as the Croix de Tormery, a clear landmark for anyone navigating the ridge.

The trail does not stop at the summit. A well-known ridge route called La Savoyarde continues along the crest of the southern spur of the Bauges massif, crossing an exposed section called Le Tapin (1,202 m) before reaching Roche du Guet (1,209 m). It is a route for hikers who enjoy ridge walking and are comfortable with some exposure along the way.

What should you know before setting out?

The trail is not technically demanding, but parts of it run along the edge of rock outcrops, so it is worth choosing a day with good weather and wearing proper hiking boots. Most walkers start and finish at the car park by Lac de la Thuile, which makes it easy to combine the hike with a walk along the lakeshore.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Roc de Tormery?

The summit reaches 1,135 metres above sea level.

Where does the hike to Roc de Tormery start?

Most people begin at Lac de la Thuile, in the commune of La Thuile, within the Bauges massif.

Why is Roc de Tormery called "La Savoyarde"?

Because the shape of its rock face is said to resemble the profile of a woman wearing the traditional headdress of the Tarentaise region.

How long does it take to reach the summit?

The ascent alone takes around an hour, and the full loop with the descent usually takes about two to two and a half hours.

Does the trail continue past the summit?

Yes - the ridge trail known as La Savoyarde carries on past Roc de Tormery through Le Tapin and on to Roche du Guet.