Weekend Wander: Dent du Chat

A nice easy hike not too far from Lyon is the Dent du Chat, which overlooks Lac Bourget. If you park at the Relais du Mont du Chat you can traverse across the col without the climb. It's a spectacular view for very little effort! In fact, the highest point is where you park.

From Lyon it's around a 1h45 drive- go towards Aix Les Bains on the A43, take exit 12 onto the D921 then head towards Meyrieux-Trouet, turning off the D42 towards Cremaire, and climb until you reach the little restaurant and viewpoint where you can park (1486m). It's a pretty well known bike route to the col, so you might see some crazy cyclists on the way up.

The start (and rest of the route) is signposted from the carpark with the usual yellow signs, also flashes on trees. I don't think a map is probably all that necessary, but just to be safe you would need: 3332 OT Chambéry-Aix les Bains

It's about a 2h30 trip in total. To reach the first peak, Molard Noir (1452m) you cross through a forest- there were a lot of bugs when I went so repellent is advised- and you gradually descend towards the viewpoint at Molard Noir, where you can see the Dent du Chat below you, and also see for miles in all directions, including a view of Mont Blanc on a clear day.

From Molard Noir you descend sharply (we went off route here as we followed the people ahead of us, but it's not as steep if you actually follow the snaking path down rather than cutting through the trees) then traverse a little- I remember this section being a little close to the edge so watch out if you have vertigo.

You then reach the section with some ladders and cables, but it's pretty easy. I wouldn't like to do it in bad weather though. From the Dent du Chat (1390m) you have a beautiful panorama, and since it's such a short hike you can combine it with an afternoon at Lac Bourget or Lac Aiguebelette which is on the way home.

Return is by the same route, and you can stop for a beer or lunch at the Relais, which had a pretty big menu if I remember correctly (I usually remember correctly if it involves food).

For more information: http://www.altituderando.com/Molard-Noir-1452m-et-Dent-du-Chat

Please comment below if  ch are easily accessible from Lyon !