Charousse is one of my favourite places in the valley. Lupins run riot in the high alpine meadow surrounding twelve perfect chalets of old larch and stone, against the incredible backdrop of the Mont Blanc massif.
There’s something more than a postcard-perfect view here — it has a very special atmosphere, timeless and peaceful.
Though easy to access, it’s surprisingly little known and generally very quiet — we first came across it when mountain biking at Les Houches.
After about ten minutes, the trail suddenly opens up and curves round into the meadow
June is the best time to catch the lupins.
and the whole meadow seems alive with flowers.
After a picnic, a last look back before returning
Heading back down through the woods
Afternoon sun filters through the beech leaves
It’s equally lovely in winter when it’s a point on several snowshoeing and ski touring trails.
You can either take the Prarion cable car and walk or cycle down to it, or drive — head up from Les Houches towards the Ecole de Physique, park at the top and it’s a short walk, slightly uphill, through the beautiful old forest of beech and pine. There are no amenities, no café, nothing in particular to do — just a peaceful meadow and the mountains — sometimes, it’s all you want.
