VEYRIER TO MONT SALEVE (FRANCE) HIKE

We set off to explore Mont Salève for a scenic, history-filled hike just outside Geneva. This route from Veyrier to the upper cable car station via Monnetier-Mornex village combines sweeping views, fascinating geology, and traces of alpine life through the centuries.
We began our hike at Veyrier Douane, on the Swiss side of the Swiss-French border. Following signs into France to reach the start of the hike, we crossed over railway tracks before turning left onto Chemin du Bois Méringuet which runs alongside them.
Looking up at the imposing mountain, we caught sight of the Château de Monnetier. Originally a 13th-century hermitage, it has lived many lives—from guesthouse to holiday resort—before being rebuilt and becoming the private residence it is today.

After crossing the bridge over the motorway then saw the trail climbing up to the left—this is where the ascent truly began, and the landscape quickly shifted from urban edges to nature.

As we climbed, we passed impressive glacial boulders—carried here from the Mont Blanc region over 15,000 years ago. It’s striking to think about the power of the glaciers that shaped this landscape.

The trail led us up stone steps carved into the rock. These date from the 14th century. Further up, we passed the tunnel of an old funicular, a remnant of the 19th-century cog railway that once brought visitors up the mountain.

Shortly after, we reached the historic Pas de l’Échelle (the “Ladder Steps”), part of a route dating back to at least 1320. Climbing these ancient steps—once bordered by a railway—we gradually ascended into the village of Monnetier-Mornex.

We paused in the village. Once a popular holiday destination, the area flourished in the 19th century with the arrival of the railway and grand hotels.

After the pause, we walked to the other side of the village and continued uphill and into the forest. After 10 minutes or so, we arrived at the Oratory of Notre-Dame de Salève. We took a moment here to enjoy the panoramic views from the nearby viewpoint—definitely one of the best photo spots on the route—before continuing on the trail to the right of the oratory.

This section of the trail requires some climbing up and over rocks so caution is advised as well as sure-footedness. Eventually, we reached the former restaurant Chalet de la Croix, perched on the edge of a cliff. Though currently under renovation, we were offered another stunning view over Lake Geneva from just in front of it.

The last stretch was the toughest—steep and seemingly neverending—but knowing we were close to the top kept us going.

At last, we exited the forest and caught sight of the summit—the Téléphérique du Salève (cable car)—a clear sign we’d made it. There, we took a well-earned break, stopping for a drink at Café 1100 (a reference to its altitude) before soaking in the panoramic views stretching across the lake and beyond.

For the return, we took the Téléphérique du Salève, enjoying a bird’s-eye view of the Salève quarries below. Still active today until 2033, these quarries have been in use since the 1830s and cover a surface area of 57 hectares.

Looking back up at the mountain from below, we were genuinely amazed by how much ground we had covered and the climb we had accomplished. This hike offered the perfect mix of nature, history, and rewarding views—along with a satisfying dose of challenge!

Trail Information:

Mont Salève hike starting from Veyrier Douane via Monnetier-Mornex village
Approximate duration: 2–3 hours
Distance: around 4.5 km
Elevation gain: approximately 700 metres
Trail includes steep forest sections, rocky paths, and historic stone steps
Good hiking footwear is highly recommended
Avoid hiking during or shortly after rain, as paths can become slippery and muddy
Bring water, snacks, and suitable clothing for changing mountain weather
Return possible via the Téléphérique du Salève or on foot