Located in the Haute-Savoie department, Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval is one of four municipalities in the Haut-Giffre Nordic ski area in the Grand Massif (Morillon, Samoëns, Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval and Verchaix). Situated between Lake Geneva and the resort of Chamonix, the Haut-Giffre is a vast high mountain massif, criss-crossed by the tumultuous Giffre torrent.
The summer holidays are just around the corner and you've decided to take the whole family to discover the resort of Flaine and the surrounding area. Among the wide range of events, shows, sporting and cultural activities on offer in the region, you can also take advantage of a day's hiking to explore another natural treasure in the heart of the Haut-Giffre Nordic ski area. Located in Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval, one of the five major winter sports resorts in the Grand Massif in Haute-Savoie, the Gorges des Tines are a stunning and refreshing sight. Listed as a natural site, they are the result of thousands of years of work by one of the most abundant rivers in the Alps, the Giffre. Accessible to children from the age of five, the Gorges des Tines hiking trail starts in Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval and promises to amaze you over the two kilometres it covers. A perfect activity for the whole family to enjoy during your summer holiday in the mountains!

Discover the Savoyard village of Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval and the Gorges des Tines: a natural treasure close to the resort of Flaine

The limestone cliffs of the Gorges de Tines, Grand Massif, Haute-Savoie
- © KaryB / ShutterstockAnd it's in the heart of the valley that you'll find the magnificent Haute-Savoie village of Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval. Renowned for its pastoral heritage and exceptional listed natural sites, this typical mountain village is home to an abundance of unspoilt nature. These include the famous Cirque du Fer-à-Cheval, the Cascade du Rouget, the Gorges des Tines and the Sixt-Passy Nature Reserve. The Cirque du Fer à Cheval is one of the most remarkable sites in the region, while the equally spectacular Gorges des Tines are perfect for a family activity.
The Gorges des Tines hike

The Gorges de Tines, classified natural site of the Domaine du Haut-Giffre in Haute-Savoie
- © LENS-68 / ShutterstockAccessible from spring until November, depending on snow conditions, this short hiking trail offers a pleasant way to explore the mysterious Gorges des Tines. Shaped over thousands of years, you'll discover the "old" and "new" gorges along a signposted, two-kilometre-long route. A footbridge and ladders add a touch of adventure to this mystical family trail. Just be careful in case of rain! The ladders can be slippery. And don't forget that you can also enjoy other activities on site, such as the Via Ferrata du Mont, the climbing wall at the Rocher des Tines, rafting across the Gorges and numerous mountain bike trails. Located at the gateway to the Haute-Savoie village of Sixt Fer à Cheval, this listed site is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories of your family activity!
Practical information
Access to the Gorges des Tines :
- From May to November every year.
- Leaving from the village of Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval (74740). Information from the Tourist Office or find the hiking trail itinerary on the Haut Giffre website: https: //www.haut-giffre.fr/je-decouvre/nos-territoires/sixt-fer-a-cheval/?utm_source=easyvoyage
- Average duration: 1 hour
- Distance: 2 kilometres
- Signposted route (departmental signposting)
- Pets allowed
- Car park
- Itinerary
- Tricky sections: In wet weather, the metal ladders can be very slippery.
- Maximum altitude: 900 metres
- Vertical drop: 180 metres

Totem, Friendly Hotel
The Terminal Neige - Totem welcomes you to the heart of Flaine, 100 metres from the Flaine Supérieur cable car.Where to eat when discovering the Gorges de Tines?
It all depends on whether you want lunch or dinner. For a morning hike and a no-fuss lunch break, head for the Snack des Tines. Located in the car park of the old Gorges, this restaurant serves simple dishes on a shady terrace. (Open daily from mid-June to the end of August).
Now that you've spent the day enjoying the various activities in the Gorges des Tines and are looking for a restaurant where you can enjoy the region's traditional cuisine, we recommend you visit the Auberge de la Feuille d'érable in Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval. This typical Savoyard restaurant offers a menu of regional specialities prepared using local seasonal produce.