Just under 1,800 meters vertically separate us from Lake Geneva, and our gaze extends far into the depths. From below, Le Grammont seems inconspicuous, almost a little reserved. But up here on the summit, everything is different: the view is simply overwhelming. That pretty much sums up the tour. But Grammont has more to tell, so let's rewind to early morning.
We set off early and at 7 a.m. the car park at Miex is almost empty. We quickly complete the first steep ascent to Lac de Taney, where a magical silence still reigns. In the small hostel, we see the overnight guests sitting inside drinking coffee through the open windows, while outside the first rays of sunshine climb over the mountain ridges. For us, the further ascent continues in partial shade, far away from the noise of the Rhône Valley.
Ahead of us, the rugged peaks of Les Jumelles rise into the sky, striking landmarks that point us in the direction of Col des Crosses. Near the Les Crosses alp, a few people have taken advantage of the stable spring weather and bivouacked up here. Now they are all sitting together around the stove, looking forward to their first coffee before the day really begins.
Le Grammont itself, however, does not exactly welcome us with picture-perfect weather. Shreds of clouds play with the panorama, allowing only glimpses of Lake Geneva. But that's just fine.
However, Le Grammont itself does not exactly welcome us with picture-perfect weather. Fragments of clouds play with the panorama, allowing only glimpses of Lake Geneva. But that's what makes it exciting, because every little window in the cloud cover is a surprise. Sometimes we spot a boat sailing below or catch a glimpse of a piece of the shore. But there is also plenty to discover in other directions. Next to the lake, we look directly at the Riviera, and in the clouds around us, we can guess at the giant mountains surrounding the Rhône Valley.
To avoid hiking back the same way, we follow the ridge towards Alamont. The path here requires sure-footedness and a head for heights, leading through steep flanks and narrow passages. Adventurous and a little challenging, it's exactly what makes our hiking hearts beat faster. And we're not even alone here. Suddenly, a young ibex stands in the middle of the path. Just a few meters away, it eyes us curiously. For a moment, we forget the landscape and ask ourselves: Who is actually watching whom here?
A simple summit cross awaits us at Alamont before we make our way back to Lac de Taney. By now, it feels like summertime at midday: children are playing on the shore and day trippers are enjoying the sun or sitting on the terrace of the Refuge La Vouivre. It's a stark contrast to the silence of the morning, and I'm glad we got up early and started so early. For us, it's the perfect end to our hike before we head back to the parking lot.
With a little planning, Grammont becomes an experience away from the hustle and bustle. A summit to be enjoyed, which definitely impresses with its tranquility and views.
