Top 20 Waterfalls in Savoie
Waterfalls in Savoie are a prominent natural feature of this French Alpine region, known for its mountainous terrain and diverse landscapes. The area is characterized by its valleys, forests, and high cliffs, which create ideal conditions for numerous cascades. These natural sites are often nestled within protected areas, offering opportunities for outdoor exploration. Savoie's geography contributes to a variety of waterfall types, from powerful torrents to multi-tiered falls.
Best waterfalls in Savoie
- The most popular waterfalls is Cascade de la Doriaz, a waterfall that can be viewed from a bridge. A small path leads steeply uphill to its source, the 'Trou de la Doriaz'.
- Another must-see spot is Saint-Même Cirque Waterfalls, a waterfall and family-friendly viewpoint. This natural site at the foot of the Hauts de Chartreuse nature reserve offers a walk between forest and torrent to discover its 4 waterfalls.
- Visitors also love Pissieu Waterfall, a waterfall known for its ice-cold spring water. It is an accessible walk with a waterfall at the end, making it a popular destination.
- Savoie is known for its diverse waterfalls, including those found in cirques, gorges, and forest settings. The region offers a variety of waterfalls to see and explore, from powerful cascades to serene multi-tiered falls.
- The waterfalls in Savoie are appreciated by the komoot community. With more than 240 upvotes and 80 photos, these natural sites offer diverse experiences for outdoor enthusiasts.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
Saint-Même Cirque Waterfalls
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Waterfalls on the Nant du Pontet
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The first waterfall, above the Sécheron bridge, is a 7 meter high slope where the water gains speed in two successive jumps.
The second waterfall, under the same bridge, is a powerful cataract 6 m high which plunges into the void via an immense staircase above a small cave.
The third waterfall is the most impressive and the most difficult to reach. This 30 m high waterfall is located in a narrow gorge carved into a steep rock face. It can be visited from a wooden bridge.
The pools dug into the rock are particularly impressive. They were probably used for bathing in the past.
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Cascade de la Doriaz
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Due to the slippery surface is here buckle up duty, if you want to shimmy along the source.
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View of the Cascade du Morel
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Pissieu Waterfall
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Nant Putors Waterfall
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Doria Spring
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Pied de l'Écho Waterfall
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Pichut Waterfall
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Cascade
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Tips from the Community
This waterfall is one of the many waterfalls that the Doria forms along its course, from the Doria hole 400m higher up, to its confluence with the Leysse, 2km further down. It is however the highest of these. https://www.chamberymontagnes.com/que-faire/visites-culture-patrimoine/grande-cascade-de-la-doria-saint-jean-darvey-fr-5783870/#:~:text=Cette%20cascade%20est%20l'une,plus%20haute%20de%20celles%2Dci.
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The Cirque de Saint-Même, located at an altitude of 900 m, offers walkers landscapes of rare beauty. In a green setting, you will enjoy the coolness of three superb waterfalls dominated by an impressive cliff amphitheater. https://www.chartreuse-tourisme.com/offres/cirque-de-saint-meme-saint-pierre-dentremont-fr-2715680/
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The access is very well signposted, and you can do a lovely loop hike, starting from Saint-Même-le-Haut, or from Saint-Pierre-d'Entremont for the more adventurous. At the end of winter, the water level can be very high.
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Magnificent! But be careful on the second part it is much more technical so hiking is ok, running less so :/
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view of a stone bridge
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As you hike through the beautiful Alpine landscape near the Châlets de la Plagne, you will discover the breathtaking waterfalls that cascade from the cliffs above the Ponturin. As you follow the winding path, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the waterfalls cascading down from the mountains.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there family-friendly waterfalls in Savoie?
Yes, Savoie offers several waterfalls suitable for families. The Saint-Même Cirque Waterfalls are a popular choice, offering a walk between forest and torrent to discover its four cascades. Visitors note it's a very nice hike without difficulty, ideal for children. Another accessible option is Pichut Waterfall, also categorized as family-friendly.
What are some easy waterfall walks in Savoie?
For an easy walk, consider the Pissieu Waterfall in the Bauges mountains. It's known for being an accessible walk with a beautiful waterfall at the end, and generally isn't very busy. The Nant Putors Waterfall also offers a gentle hike through woodlands.
What is the best time to visit the waterfalls in Savoie?
The waterfalls in Savoie are particularly impressive after heavy rains or during the snowmelt in spring, when water flow is at its peak. Summer offers refreshing experiences and easier access to trails. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, while winter access can be challenging for some locations due to snow and ice, though some frozen cascades offer a unique spectacle.
Are there waterfalls in Savoie that offer unique natural features or viewpoints?
Absolutely. The Saint-Même Cirque Waterfalls are nestled within a natural cirque at the foot of the Hauts de Chartreuse nature reserve, offering access to the resurgence cave of the Guiers Vif spring. For impressive views, the View of the Cascade du Morel provides a great vantage point. The Cascade de la Doriaz can be viewed from a bridge, with a path leading steeply to its source, the 'Trou de la Doriaz'.
What do visitors enjoy most about the waterfalls in Savoie?
Visitors frequently highlight the refreshing natural beauty and the tranquility of the waterfall sites. Many appreciate the accessibility of some falls, making them suitable for families. The impressive power of cascades like the Cascade de la Doriaz and the scenic walks, such as those around the Saint-Même Cirque Waterfalls, are also highly praised.
Are there any challenging waterfall hikes in Savoie?
For those seeking a more challenging experience, the path leading steeply uphill to the source of the Cascade de la Doriaz is noted as challenging, especially due to slippery surfaces where a safety rope is recommended. The Pied de l'Écho Waterfall also offers an intermediate challenge.
Can I find circular walks that include waterfalls in Savoie?
Yes, there are several circular routes that incorporate waterfalls. For instance, the Cirque de Saint-Même offers a 1.7-mile (2.7 km) loop trail to experience its three distinct waterfalls. You can find more detailed routes, such as the Cirque de Saint-Même Waterfalls Trail or the Pissieu Waterfall – Châtelard Pond loop, within the dedicated waterfall hikes guide.
What other outdoor activities can I do near the waterfalls in Savoie?
The Savoie region, with its mountainous terrain, offers a wide range of outdoor activities. Near the waterfalls, you can find numerous hiking opportunities. For cycling enthusiasts, there are challenging road cycling routes and mountain biking trails throughout the region, often passing through scenic landscapes close to natural attractions.
Are there any waterfalls in Savoie with historical or unique access points?
The Waterfalls on the Nant du Pontet are notable for their successive cascades, including one under the Sécheron bridge and a 30-meter fall accessible via a wooden bridge, revealing impressive rock pools that may have been used for bathing in the past.
Are there any waterfalls in the broader Savoie and Haute-Savoie region that are particularly magnificent?
Beyond Savoie, the neighboring Haute-Savoie region boasts some truly magnificent waterfalls. The Cascade du Rouget, often called the 'Queen of the Alps' near Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval, is a powerful two-tiered cascade. The Cirque du Fer-à-Cheval is also remarkable, featuring around 30 different waterfalls within its horseshoe-shaped cirque, making it a paradise for hikers. For more information on waterfalls in Haute-Savoie, you can visit tourisme-haute-savoie.com.
Can I find waterfalls that are easily visible from the road in Savoie?
Yes, some waterfalls offer easy visibility. The Cascade Saint Benoit, situated between La Norma and Aussois, is easily visible from the road, though viewing it from its base provides a more impressive experience.
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