Loop

in Léaz

Hiking: Fort l'Ecluse on the banks of the Rhône

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©ThomasBalliard

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This is a history and nature trail, starting in the fort itself. The final ascent rewards walkers with an exceptional panorama before descending to the fort.

Itinerary details

Léaz

Loop

Marked

Rock, Ground, Grit, Not suitable for strollers

Autumn, Summer, Spring

Pets are allowed

Closed temporarily.

Description

Departing from Fort l'Écluse when it opens from June to September, the trail winds through the forest before reaching the banks of the Rhône. It winds its way between stone staircases, medieval ruins and through woods to the heights of Léaz, from where you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Rhône valley. The route then continues to the top of the upper Fort, offering panoramic views over the Rhône gorge, the Vuache and the Étournel marsh. The descent to the lower Fort concludes this loop, rich in history and emotion.

Car parkFree car parkPedestrian sportsHiking itinerary

Duration05h30Elevation544 D- / 720 D+Distance12.0 kmAltitude Max.593 m

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Hiking: Fort l’Ecluse on the banks of the Rhône

Distance : 12.0 km

Altitude Max. : 593 m

Your itinerary

Getting to the starting point Report a problem

Step 1: Fort Car Park

From the parking area, enter Fort l'Écluse via the Porte de France. Cross the lower courtyard, then exit through the Genève gate, which opens onto the surrounding woods.

Step 2: Geneva Gate

A narrow path on the right winds gently through the forest, before crossing a metal staircase. The walk continues on a wider path that veers to the right, down a ramp at the edge of a railway tunnel.

Step 3: Ferry tunnel

At the bottom of the descent, join a road on the left, follow it to the right for a few moments, before taking a discreet path along the Rhone.

Step 4: Carnot Bridge

This section offers a refreshing atmosphere beside the water: cross a succession of footbridges ressembling little suspension bridges over wetlands, and then begin an ascent towards the hamlet of Lavoux.

Step 5: Le Lavoux

At this crossroads, you can shorten the walk by returning directly to the parking area via the road on your right. Alternatively, continue left along a quiet road before crossing the railway line.

Step 6: Condières Mill

The path then leads to the Moulin de Condière, nestling on the banks of the river where traces of a bygone era are still present.

Step 7: Plu Street

Follow the signs for “Aux Marais”, which opens up a rural landscape of clearings and hedgerows.

Step 8: In the Marshes

Continue straight ahead on a path through meadows, then begin a descent towards Haut de Longeray, with beautiful views of the Rhône below.

Step 9: On Longeray

The climb gradually resumes towards the upper Fort, winding through wooded terrain.

Step 10: Les Binsets

From Les Binsets, a 200-metre round trip takes you to a magnificent viewpoint, offering exceptional panoramic views of the Rhône cluse, the Vuache and the Etournel ponds.

Step 11: The Fort Tunnel

All that remains is to descend to the Lower Fort, taking the last section of the trail. Take care when crossing the road near the Fort tunnel, just before returning to the parking area.

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