The Desert de Platé, a geological curiosity in Flaine at an altitude of 2,500 m!
One of the largest lapiaz in Europe
Facing Mont Blanc, this 1980-hectare limestone plateau is mostly made up of lapiaz, dug by glaciers and meltwater. Recognized as one of the largest lapiaz in Europe, the Platé plateau is only accessible on foot, which earned it its name of desert.
Spectacular flora and fauna
Classified since 1998 for its exceptional landscape interest, the Platé desert attracts thanks to its extraordinary appearance. A vast limestone plateau shaped by glaciers and sculpted by meltwater, hikers who venture there have the impression of walking on a petrified glacier or even on the moon!
Surrounded by imposing walls, the Desert of Platé is a secret garden that will delight all nature lovers with its rich flora, its very present fauna and its spectacular geology. You will find fossil evidence of a mountain that formed a sea floor 40 million years ago! And marmots, ibexes and other emblematic animals are often there.
The Mont Blanc panorama
The most beautiful view of the Mont-Blanc massif is in Flaine, come and discover it!
From Flaine, the cable car takes you to the top of the Grandes Platières at 2,500 m. Unforgettable surprise at the top, a striking 360° view of the surrounding mountains: the Mont-Blanc, Aravis, Belledonne and Jura massifs...
You can access the Platé desert by hiking via the GR 96 (about 3 hours walk) or by the Grandes Platières cable car* from Flaine.
The Grandes Platières cable car
Access to the Desert of Platé & the Mont-Blanc view from Flaine Forum thanks to the Grandes Platières cable car (12 min): Open from July 1st to August 27th, 2023, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. - 7 days a week.
2023 prices: Adult: €19.50 - Child (5 to 15 years old): €15.50.
In case of unfavorable weather conditions, the cable car will be closed all day.
Little tip: at this altitude, it is necessary to bring a warm jacket. Hiking shoes or shoes with good grip are necessary to avoid any fall and accident.
Also of interest
Hiking App
Little tip: Download the free app, "Flaine Les Carroz Outdoor", available at:
