(1) 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.
(2) 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.
(3) 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.
(4) 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.
(5) 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.
(6) 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.
(7) Then head up towards Léaz, along a winding, shady and peaceful path. Pass through the village and take a safe, well-marked path.
(8) Follow the signs for “Aux Marais”, which opens up a rural landscape of clearings and hedgerows.
(9) Continue straight ahead on a path through meadows, then begin a descent towards Haut de Longeray, with beautiful views of the Rhône below.
(10) The climb gradually resumes towards the upper Fort, winding through wooded terrain.
(11) 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.
(12) 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.
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.
Guidebook with maps/step-by-step
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.