Escursione a Charousse

This old Alpine pasture is made up of five farms. The original pasture has been restored yet still bears the signs of a bygone pastoral age. It is a beautiful site offering views of the Aiguilles de Chamonix and the Chaîne des Fiz.

From the Côte des Chavants car park, follow directions for the Ecole de Physique des Houches, then turn left to follow the small marked trail to the Alpage de Charousse which lies nestled below the Prarion mountain.

The Alpage de Charousse, a visible expression of the mountain's pastoral history and architecture.
Located on the impressive glacial polished bedrock that underlies the Mont Blanc Massif and the Aiguilles Rouges, the Charousse Alpine pasture is a superb site affording outstanding views over the Mont Blanc Massif. Easily accessed via a well-marked path that climbs gently upwards. Allow for 30-45 minutes to reach the pasture with the family from the Côte des Chavants above Les Houches.
To help preserve the site, please remain on the paths and do not climb over the fences.
Some lovely traditionally-built farms remain, forming a hamlet. This Alpine pasture was a summer transition zone for the grazing herds.

History in the spotlight
In 1926, architect Albert Laprade was won over by this Alpine pasture. He acquired one of the chalets, along with a large number of traditional items and furniture, which he bequeathed to the village of Les Houches. This collection can now be seen in the Mountain Museum in Les Houches.