Hiking itinerary: short hikes to Chantemerle, above Samoëns

Between forest and hamlet, this hike will appeal to lovers of traditional architecture. Enjoy the view of La Bourgeoise and the surrounding peaks.

From Place du Gros Tilleul (planted in 1438), pass between the church and the town hall, turn right behind the château stables, then left where you'll find a sign. After crossing a property and skirting the wall of the botanical garden, head for the road, passing a farmhouse. Turn left on the carriage road as far as the Plaignes cross, then take the path on the right. A second path, again on the right, winds along an attractive stone wall. After a few hairpin bends in the forest, you reach La Grangiat on a wide path. Turn right, below, onto a path that climbs towards Chantemerle via La Pierre de Dinat (this loop, in this direction, avoids tricky sections on the descent near La Pierre de Dinat). Alternatively, you can return via Les Combes. Once you've reached the famous Pierre de Dinat, turn left down a recently-built track, then left again, to head for Chantemerle. Take time to look back at the summit of La Bourgeoise and the chapel (1684). Return to Samoëns via the hamlet of Les Combes.