Rock Climbing & Via Ferrata
Challenge verticality on the most beautiful cliffs of the Aravis
Climbing in the heart of the Alps
The Aravis offers an exceptional playground for all forms of climbing. From perfectly equipped limestone cliffs to vertiginous via ferratas, through forest bouldering sites, every climber will find their challenge.
Whether you're a beginner or experienced climber, the diversity of sites allows smooth progression in an exceptional natural setting.
Focus: Petit-Bornand Cliff
Overhang paradise
Petit-Bornand Cliff
A very difficult site with lots of overhang: 13m for some routes which are the main attraction of this cliff. Thanks to the pronounced overhang, climbing is possible in full summer. You can climb in the rain but watch out for seepage.
Notable routes
Detailed access
From the village
In Petit-Bornand village, take the road past the town hall towards Cenise and Paradis. Park 250m after the town hall. On foot, follow the track towards Cocogne then the steep track on the left (direction Paradis). After 25 min, leave the path to the right before a bend with a cross.
From Saint-Pierre
Coming from Saint-Pierre en Faucigny, cross Petit-Bornand. 200m after leaving the village, park in the parking lot on the left. Follow the path, cross the stream, then climb at 90° to the left in the forest. Fixed ropes before the cliff.
5a to 8a+
Nearby climbing sites
La Colombière Cliff
Major site with over 150 equipped routes. Ideal south exposure.
Thônes Via Ferrata
Spectacular aerial route with monkey bridges and zip lines.
Champ Laitier Boulder
Forest bouldering site with over 200 listed problems.
Courses and training with guides
Climbing initiation
Durée : Half day
Niveau : Beginner
Discover climbing safely with a guide
€45/person
Advanced course
Durée : 2 days
Niveau : Intermediate
Advanced techniques and multi-pitch routes
€180/person
Guided Via Ferrata
Durée : 3-4h
Niveau : All levels
Accompanied route with equipment provided
€65/person
Réservation des cours à la réception du camping ou directement auprès des guides partenaires.
Required equipment
For climbing
- Harness
- Climbing shoes
- Helmet
- Belay device
- Rope (min. 70m)
- Quickdraws (12 minimum)
- Chalk
For via ferrata
- Harness
- Helmet
- Via ferrata lanyards with shock absorber
- Gloves
- Hiking boots
Location de matériel : Equipment rental: Available at the campsite and in Le Grand-Bornand sport shops
Safety and best practices
Important guidelines
- •Never climb alone, always in pairs minimum
- •Systematically check equipment before use
- •Helmet mandatory on all sites
- •Respect grades and don't overestimate your level
- •Check weather conditions before leaving
- •Take training or hire a guide if beginner
- •Respect environment and any restrictions
Climbing guidebooks and personalized advice available at reception.
Book a climbing guide