Walk 6130 - Circular walk From Morgins to Tovassiere

      
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The car may be parked opposite the riding stables at the start of the Sentier Planetaire, in Morgins (1333m), by a sign advertising the Restaurant d’Alpage de Tovassiere.

  
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Start by walking away from the village up the tarmac Sentier Planetaire. Almost immediately fork left on the Chemin des Ponts heading to Sassex, Portes de Soleil, les Crosets. This path follows the rushing river first on one side and then on the other, crossing numerous small wooden bridges (hence the name of the path) as you make your way upstream. Each bridge, however small, has a plaque uniquely naming it after a plant. In the early part of the walk there are several covered picnic huts. You will also find from time to time information boards on the life cycle of bees and associated topics. At one point the path comes close to the road, but the Chemin des Ponts, signed to Tovassiere, continues along the side of the river. It does eventually come out onto the road and here turn left.

Almost immediately fork left again through the grounds of a small refreshment establishment (En Tey). The path is signed to many places including Lac de Chesery. At a fork continue straight on, to arrive at a little lake. Skirt round this and continue on the Chemin des Ponts. When this comes out onto a forest road at the end of tarmac turn left along the gravel road. At a junction turn right, still following the river. After passing more bee information points and crossing two bridges in quick succession, a sign announces your arrival at Sassex (1514m). The path comes out to tarmac.

Turn left and immediately left on a path signed to La Tovassiere. Cross the river and swing left. From here the path is much steeper as it winds its way from the river, up through the trees to arrive at an Alpine meadow through a turnstile (really!). From here it is a short distance to Cantine de Tovassiere (1689m) – in the summer open July and August for refreshments - situated in a magnificent bowl of mountains. After passing this hut you reach a sign pointing down a road to Morgins 1hr 10 mins. This road is actually the far end of the Sentier Planetaire and, after passing two waterfalls and the path up to Lac de Chesery, as you follow it down to Morgins you will discover the reason why – and improve your knowledge of the planetary system.

Although there is a climb of about 350 m, the ascent is easy until the final stretch up to La Tavossiere. It is an ideal family walk which should be accomplished within three hours or so, with plenty of shade in hot weather, opportunities for refreshment, interesting information points and in clear weather fine views; more energetic members of the party can continue up to Lac de Chesery.

Suggested Maps

IGN Carte de Randonnée - Morzine/Massif-du-Chablis/Les Portes du Soleil - 1:25000 Sheet 3528ET