Roc des Bœufs

Roc des Bœufs is a mountain summit rising above the village of Entrevernes, at the heart of the Bauges Regional Nature Park on the border between Haute-Savoie and Savoie. It reaches 1,775 metres and forms the western ridge of the Entrevernes mountain massif, making it one of the standout viewpoints of the Lake Annecy area.

What makes this summit distinctive?

The peak is built from hard Urgonian limestone, giving it a sharp, rocky profile. Its eastern face drops away in nearly vertical rock slabs that have long drawn climbers looking for technical routes. The western slope is gentler — a forested, marl-covered incline that runs out beneath the limestone cliffs above. That contrast between a raw, sheer wall on one side and a calm, wooded slope on the other means the mountain looks completely different depending on which side of the valley you approach from.

How do you get there and what does the hike involve?

The starting point is the village of Entrevernes, from where a trail climbs up through the Bauges terrain. The ascent typically takes 2 to 2.5 hours, and the descent — whether by the same path or an alternative route — takes another 1.5 to 2 hours, so plan for roughly 4 hours total if you want time to rest and take in the scenery. Hikers following the classic walking route don't need climbing gear, but the steep sections near the top demand attention and solid trekking boots.

What will you see at the top?

The reward is a sweeping panorama: Lake Annecy spread out below, the distinctive peak of La Tournette in the distance, and further ranges of the Savoy Alps beyond. It's the kind of view that brings water, mountains, and valley together in a single frame, which is why Roc des Bœufs is often suggested as an alternative to more crowded viewpoints in the region. The summit has a reputation for being quieter than nearby popular peaks, something hikers looking for a bit of solitude tend to appreciate.

When is the best time to visit?

Late spring through early autumn is the best window, when the trail is dry and the views over the lake and mountains stay clear. In summer, an early start helps you avoid the heat on the exposed, rocky stretches of the route. In early spring and late autumn, the steep sections can turn slippery after rain, so it's worth checking conditions before setting out.

Who is this hike suited for?

Reaching Roc des Bœufs suits hikers with reasonably good fitness who are used to mountain ascents — the several-hour walk with real elevation gain isn't technically difficult, but it does require stamina. Climbers may find the eastern rock faces particularly appealing, with harder routes set on the Urgonian limestone.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Roc des Bœufs? The summit reaches 1,775 metres and forms the western ridge of the Entrevernes mountain within the Bauges Regional Nature Park.

How long does the hike to the summit take? The ascent takes around 2 to 2.5 hours and the descent 1.5 to 2 hours — allow about 4 hours total with time to rest along the way.

What can you see from the summit? The top offers views over Lake Annecy, the peak of La Tournette, and the surrounding ranges of the Bauges massif and the Savoy Alps.

Is the route suitable for beginners? The walking trail doesn't require climbing equipment, but the steep, rocky sections call for good fitness and caution — it suits hikers with some prior mountain experience.