The Ornon Loop – Hike Starting at the Pont des Oulles

This loop trail takes you through the tuff field, the hamlets of Ornon, its forests, and past a remarkable fir tree that is 42 meters tall and 4 meters in circumference.

This trail invites you to explore the natural treasures of Ornon, including its forest heritage, geological features, and small mountain hamlets.

Along the way, you’ll discover the recently restored Ornon tuff field. This remarkable natural phenomenon originates from an upstream resurgence: runoff water, rich in bicarbonate as it comes into contact with underground rocks, deposits limestone on the vegetation. As the vegetation petrifies, it gives rise to a new type of rock. An informational sign on site will help you understand this unique geological process in detail.

SIGHTS TO SEE

• the tufa formation
• the remarkable fir tree
• the hamlets of Rivier, Pouthuire, and Poyat
• the Ornon Forest, one of the largest alder forests in Europe

Park at the Oulles Bridge, cross the bridge on foot, and turn left immediately afterward.

You’ll follow the old Villard-Reymond road before turning right onto Chemin de la Tuffière. Follow it to the tuff quarry, then pass through the Courbarey stream valley to reach the hamlet of Le Rivier.

Right at the entrance to the hamlet, the path branches off to the right and leads to La Pouthuire, but a visit to Le Rivier is a must first: old farms—some renovated, others left in their original state—a colorful vegetable garden, a washhouse, and narrow alleyways… the charm is undeniable.

Head back down to La Pouthuire by fording the streams, then, after a stroll around the hamlet, follow the trail straight ahead that climbs up to La Poyat.

At La Poyat, head down the road, passing the old school, which is now the village town hall.
Just past the hairpin turn, follow the road that descends to the right and turns into a trail leading to the Pont des Oulles.