Hint

Intro

This hike through the border area of the Canton Fribourg is all about nature and history. It leads along the Saane River to a historic 17th century bridge and from Alp La Brâ the view opens up over the Intyamon Valley.

Description

The challenging loop trail begins at the Montbovon train station and wanders up and down through a wild and pristine landscape. After the lovely church of Montbovon and the old buildings, one of which an inn from the 18th century, the path leads to the hydroelectric power plant on Lake Lessoc. From there the walk continues via Route du Lac slightly uphill on a paved road.

After about 2 km the trail begins to climb in the direction of La Petite Chia, an alpine hut at an altitude of 1,060 m. Steep trails (solid footwear is a must) are leading through a dense and pleasant forest to an area of gentle pastures. A fountain at the Sonlomont alpine hut offers a water break. This might also be a good time to fill up the water bottles before the final ascent. The path follows the ridge forming the border between Canton Fribourg and Canton Vaud and leads back into the forest. From there it climbs up to the La Brâ alpine hut at 1,460 m, high above the Intyamon Valley. Volunteer herdsmen are tending the cattle here during the summer. It is a lovely place to rest your feet and enjoy the fantastic views.

The descent is about 1 km long and passes through pastures and meadows. Time and again, you will have amazing views of the Intyamon Valley and the villages of Albeuve and Neirivue. After Les Ciernettes the path becomes challenging and snakes through the forest in the direction of the “Verbuts” in Lessoc. There are two picnic spots on Le Torrent creek, one with a grilling station, at an altitude of 870 m. A gently descending path leads to Lake Lessoc (follow the trail signs to Montbovon) and the historic covered bridge which was built in 1667. It crosses the Saane River and is one of the oldest, but most importantly, one of the last of its type in the Canton Fribourg. The stone bridge of Lessoc on the hiking trail, now paved, is another witness of history. After a little while, you will come to a grilling station with a bench, a welcome place to enjoy the peaceful Lac de Lessoc area. The trail now hugs the lakeshore and continues to offer outstanding views. After four hours the hydroelectric power plant comes into view again on the left before the tour ends at the Montbovon train station.

An enjoyable tour includes the careful planning of the same. Please inform yourself in advance at the local information center about the route and weather conditions. Depending on the season and weather conditions, this route may be blocked or interrupted

Technical information

Show Technical information content
Start location
Montbovon
Destination
Montbovon
Ascent
780 m
Descent
780 m
Distance
10 km
Duration
4 h
Duration back
4 h 10 min
Technical requirements
Medium
Physical requirements
Medium
Theme
Along Water
Signalization
Signalisation in both directions

Map

SwitzerlandMobility Map: This element is not accessible for disabled people.

Quick Facts

Route number

No. 273

Distance

10 km

Duration

4 h

Ascent

780 m

Travel information: Montbovon

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