Hike to Lac Vert (Chésery)

The Portes du Soleil region is generally known as an international holiday region that extends across the Swiss border into France. In winter, the region is one of the largest ski areas in Switzerland and in summer a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.

Indeed, the name of the Portes du Soleil region is not invented; it derives from the Alpine pass of the same name, which is on the Swiss side of the national border. This pass connects the Val de Morgins with the Val d’Illiez - a section of the hike crosses the pass.

The starting point is the mountain station of the Champéry – Croix du Culet cable car. The restaurant there has a panoramic terrace offering a good view of the jagged mountain range Dents du Midi on the opposite side and the upper section of the Val d’Illiez.

The hike begins with a steady ascent northwards up to the Portes de l’Hiver pass. From here you have a good view of the hanging plateau, which houses the lake Lac Vert (1,973 m a.s.l.) in its middle. For centuries, local shepherds spent their summers at this idyllic spot with their sheep herds. The ringing of the sheep bells combined with the shimmering reflections of the blue sky on the water surface of the lake invites you to find peace in the middle of nature.

Next to the lake is the mountain hut "Refuge de Chésery", a converted barn from the 19th century. Delicious regional products are offered here, and you have the opportunity to purchase a fishing license to fish for rainbow trout in the lake. However, hikers must bring their own fishing rod.

The hiking trail includes a round trip around the lake and finally leads back up to the Portes de l’Hiver pass. From there, the path leads down along the ridge towards the Portes du Soleil pass. The trail loops and offers a good view of the small village Les Crosets. The final descent via Planachaux to Champéry passes over lush meadows and fragrant forests. 

Hiking highlights:

• Panoramic hike, mostly high-altitude, accessible by cable car
• Quiet mountain lake, magical atmosphere, friendly mountain restaurant
• Flexible travel route with the possibility to complete the hike in various variants.