Hiking Trail: Bartou Loop

A scenic hike in the hills above the village of Mieussy. The trail takes you to the Jourdy Cave, climbs along a rocky escarpment to the Roche Pallud mountain pasture, and descends via a spectacular ledge overlooking the Saix Waterfall.

From the top of Mieussy, the trail leading up to the Jourdy Cave is actually a Way of the Cross. There, you’ll have the opportunity to explore this geological curiosity steeped in history. The cave was, in fact, used as a hiding place by the village vicars during the Reign of Terror following the French Revolution, to escape the radical revolutionaries who sought to eradicate Christianity. It was therefore designated a sanctuary in 1881, as evidenced by the plaque you can see on its wall.

The route continues with a steep ascent aided by a handrail, before reaching the hamlet of Roche Pallud. In this small alpine village, you can easily reach a superb viewpoint overlooking the Bornes Massif, the Aravis Range, the Bargy, and the Môle. You can also stroll through the beautiful pasture landscapes of the Sommand Plateau, taking in the surrounding peaks (Pointes de Rovagne, de Chalune, and du Haut-Fleury).

You’ll then reach the Saix Waterfall, which you’ll cross at its top via a footbridge and an impressive ledge running along a cliff face, before returning to your starting point along pleasant rural trails.

Departmental signage on a beige metal sign with green lettering.

IGN Map 3429 ET (Bonneville / Cluses / Le Faucigny)

1/ From the "Parking du Jourdy" parking lot, head toward "Sommand via Roche Pallud (overpass)." Continue following signs for “Sommand (parking lot)”; you’ll pass through “Le Jourdy,” “La Grotte du Jourdy,” “Roche Pallud d’en bas,” “Roche Pallud d’en haut,” “Forêt d’Ima,” and then “Sommand (Résidences).”
2/ Once you reach Sommand (Résidences), head toward “Le Jourdy via Les Clos,” and then at “Le Clos d’en bas,” follow signs for “Jourdy.”
3/ From “Le Chable,” follow the signs for “Le Jourdy (parking)” via “Le Jourdy” to return to your starting point.