Attractions and Places To See around Onnion - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Onnion include a variety of natural features and cultural sites in Haute-Savoie, France. This commune offers panoramic views from mountain summits and passes, alongside historical chapels. The area is characterized by its rich natural beauty, including the Risse River gorge and several viewpoints of the Mont Blanc range. Onnion provides opportunities for outdoor activities and serene cultural experiences.
Best attractions and places to see around Onnion
- The most popular attractions is Mount Forchat, a summit that offers nearly panoramic views. An orientation sign helps visitors identify the surrounding landscape, and gliders can be observed on clear days.
- Another must-see spot is Col de Cou, a mountain pass at an altitude of 1,117 meters. This pass connects the Vallée Verte to the Côte-en-Chablais region and is popular with cyclists due to its varied routes.
- Visitors also love Saint Bruno Chapel, a historic religious building. Perched on a hilltop, it provides panoramic views of Lac de Vallon and the surrounding mountains.
- Onnion is known for its mountain passes, summits, and historical sites. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from natural viewpoints to cultural landmarks.
- The attractions around Onnion are appreciated by the komoot community, with 165 upvotes and 149 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Mount Forchat
Highlight • Summit
An orientation sign allows you to better find your way around the environment. With a bit of luck you can watch the gliders that took off from Ramble with the winch from here.
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Jambaz Pass
Highlight • Mountain Pass
Beautiful landscape.
More information: quaeldich.de/paesse/col-de-jambaz
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Col de Cou
Highlight • Mountain Pass
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Saint Bruno Chapel
Highlight • Religious Site
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Pointe des Brasses
Highlight • Summit
Les Brasses is a toponym from a mountain pasture located above Viuz-en-Sallaz2. It could derive from the German Brache, which designates fallow or fallow land2,3, or from the Old German braka meaning “clearing”3. It is possible that it also derives from the Latin bracchium3 (“arm”), referring to the arms of the river, three of which have their source in Brasses: the Menoge, the Entreverges and Airets streams.
In June 2013, a cross made by students from the Viuz-en-Sallaz Catholic Automobile School was erected on its summit. Six meters high, it is made up of 33 metal cubes measuring 30 centimeters on each side, assembled on site and arranged in a spiral by the students themselves. She was blessed on July 7, 2013 by Mgr Boivineau, Bishop of Annecy.
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Tips from the Community
This chapel, dedicated to Saint Bruno, founder of the Carthusian Order, was built on the remains of the former convent church of the Carthusian monastery of Sainte-Marie de Vallon[1]. In 1543, the Carthusians of Vallon were forced to leave their monastery, which was dismantled[1]. When they regained possession of their property in 1607, they found only ruins of the old charterhouse. Only a few sections of the walls remained standing[1]. After building their fortified house in Génicot[2] on the right bank of the Brevon (now on the lake), they erected a chapel in the part of the old charterhouse, in homage to Saint Bruno and in memory of the monks who preceded them. Since the walls of the choir of their former convent church and those of the sacristy had not collapsed, a nave surmounted by a wooden vault was built in 1651[3]. In 1793, it was sold as national property[3]. Abandoned by its new owners, it then passed to the Gougain family, along with the entire property known as "La chèvre"[1]. In 1833, the Carthusians returned to work repairing the walls and vault, redoing the roof, and installing a bell tower. Bishop Pierre-Joseph Rey inaugurated the renovated chapel during the summer of 1836[3]. It received various donations, including from Converset David François Marie[citation needed]. In 1847, it was finally transferred to the churchyard[1]. Processions would go there to pray for rain or good weather; but Bishop Louis Rendu banned these events in 1852[citation needed]. In 1855, it was burned to the ground. A violent wind blew as the Abbey building burned and burning embers set it alight in turn[1]. Nothing new remained except the walls. M Chappaz undertook a collection throughout the parish and had repairs carried out during 1856: plaster vault, roof, bell tower, gallery, floor, altar[3]. On July 11, 1857, the renovated chapel was blessed.
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Beautiful views into the depths and beyond.
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The climb up the winding path to Chapelle Saint-Bruno is rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Lac de Vallon and the surrounding mountains. This historic chapel, perched on top of a hill, with its peaceful interior, is a place where you can enjoy a serene atmosphere. Don’t forget to take the time to soak up the breathtaking view and listen to the soothing sounds of nature.
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The Col de Cou, at an altitude of 1,117 metres, takes you from the Vallée Verte to the Côte-en-Chablais region. Several roads lead there, which allows you to train by varying the routes and difficulties. The hardest climb is the one on the western slope from Fessy, with seven kilometres at an average of 7.5%.
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Nice climb just too steep, about 5%, and not too busy.
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It can blow hard up there! I recommend the path that goes down to La Tour from the east
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The cross means summit of the Brasse mountain
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most notable natural features and viewpoints around Onnion?
Onnion is rich in natural beauty. You can experience nearly panoramic views from Mount Forchat, where an orientation sign helps identify the surrounding landscape. The Saint Bruno Chapel also offers breathtaking panoramic views of Lac de Vallon and the surrounding mountains. Other significant spots include Pointe des Brasses, which provides magnificent views of the Mont Blanc range, and the viewpoints of La Pesse and Le Rogin, offering stunning vistas of Mont Blanc, Bargy, and Aravis ranges.
Are there any historical or cultural sites worth visiting near Onnion?
Yes, the Saint Bruno Chapel is a significant historical and religious site. Perched on a hilltop, this chapel offers a serene atmosphere and beautiful views. Additionally, nearby towns host various local markets throughout the week, such as in Viuz-en-Sallaz, Boege, Bonneville, Les Gets, and Morzine, where you can discover local products and specialties.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do around Onnion?
The region around Onnion is ideal for various outdoor activities. Cycling is popular, with mountain passes like Col de Cou offering routes of varying difficulty. You can find numerous cycling routes in the Cycling around Onnion guide. Hiking is also a major draw, with trails ranging from easy to difficult, including mountain hikes. Explore options in the Hiking around Onnion guide and the Mountain Hikes around Onnion guide.
Are there specific hiking trails suitable for different skill levels near Onnion?
Yes, the area offers a range of hiking trails. For example, the 'Chalets d'Ajon – Ascent to Plaine-Joux loop from Pointe de Miribel' is an easy hike, while the 'Ascent to Plaine-Joux – Pointe de Miribel loop from Pointe de Miribel' is considered difficult. You can find detailed information on various routes and their difficulty grades in the Hiking around Onnion guide.
What is the best time of year to visit Onnion for outdoor activities?
The best time to visit Onnion largely depends on your preferred activities. For hiking and cycling, late spring through early autumn (May to October) generally offers pleasant weather. In winter, the region transforms into a snowy landscape, with nearby ski resorts like Praz de Lys Sommand, Hirmentaz, and Station Brasses providing opportunities for skiing and other winter sports.
Are there any family-friendly attractions or activities in Onnion?
While specific family-friendly attractions are not detailed, the natural environment around Onnion offers many opportunities for families to enjoy the outdoors. Easy hiking trails, scenic viewpoints like La Pesse (accessible by a short hike) and Le Rogin (reachable by car), and exploring the Risse River gorge can be enjoyable for families. The nearby ski resorts also offer family-oriented winter activities.
Where can I find information about mountain passes for cycling around Onnion?
Onnion is surrounded by several mountain passes popular with cyclists. Col de Cou, at 1,117 meters, connects the Vallée Verte to the Côte-en-Chablais region and offers varied routes. The Jambaz Pass and Col de Saxel are also notable for their scenic routes and varying gradients. You can find more cycling routes and details in the Cycling around Onnion guide.
What makes the Risse River gorge a point of interest?
The Risse River, which flows through Onnion, has carved a narrow, deep gorge. A remarkable spot is the Pont de la Tourne, where you can see the river flowing 20 to 25 meters below. Various paths lead to the gorge, offering a unique natural spectacle and a chance to explore the local terrain.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Onnion?
Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking panoramic views, especially from spots like Mount Forchat and Saint Bruno Chapel. The peaceful and serene atmosphere of the historic sites, combined with the opportunities for outdoor activities like cycling and hiking through beautiful landscapes, are highly appreciated. The komoot community has shared 149 photos and given 165 upvotes to the attractions, highlighting their appeal.
Are there opportunities for winter sports near Onnion?
Yes, Onnion is conveniently located near several ski resorts. Praz de Lys Sommand, Hirmentaz, and Station Brasses offer various winter sports opportunities. Morzine and Avoriaz, known for their popular ski domains, are also within a reasonable distance, providing extensive options for skiing and snowboarding.
Can I find information about local markets to experience regional specialties?
While Onnion itself is a small commune, nearby towns host vibrant local markets throughout the week. You can find markets in Viuz-en-Sallaz (Mondays), Boege (Tuesdays), Bonneville (Tuesdays & Fridays), Les Gets (Thursdays), and Morzine (Wednesdays). These markets are excellent places to discover and purchase local products and specialties of the Haute-Savoie region.
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