Dent d’Oche !
Dent d’Oche: The Alpine Tooth Above Lake Geneva
Soaring at 2222 meters above sea level, Dent d’Oche is one of the most iconic summits of the Haute-Savoie region. Overlooking Lake Geneva, its jagged shape resembles a tooth, giving the peak its name. A true landmark of the Chablais region, Dent d’Oche draws hikers, climbers, and nature lovers. Here's everything you need to know for a perfect adventure.
📍 Location: Where Is Dent d’Oche?
Dent d’Oche is located in the Chablais Alps, in eastern France, near the village of Bernex, in Haute-Savoie. It offers a spectacular viewpoint over Lake Geneva, the Mont Blanc massif, the Dents du Midi, and the Jura mountains.
🥾 Hiking Routes to Dent d’Oche
🔹 Classic Route from La Fétiuère
The most common starting point is from the La Fétiuère parking lot (altitude 1200 m). The ascent takes approximately 3.5 hours to the summit, passing by the Dent d’Oche mountain hut.
- Total ascent: ~1000 meters
- Difficulty: Alpine hiking – exposed sections with cables
- Best season: June to October (snow-free conditions)
🔹 Loop Variation via Col de Rebollion
For experienced hikers, a loop can be made through the Col de Rebollion and the Case Lake, adding scenic variety and wild terrain.
🏕️ Mountain Hut: Refuge de la Dent d’Oche
Located at 2113 meters, the Refuge de la Dent d’Oche clings to the mountain just below the summit. Open from June to September, it offers basic lodging with unforgettable sunrise views over Lake Geneva.
- Capacity: 38 beds
- Reservations: Highly recommended (website: FFCAM)
🦅 Flora and Fauna
The Dent d’Oche area is a haven for wildlife and alpine flora:
- Chamois often seen early morning
- Marmots in summer
- Golden eagles and bearded vultures
- Alpine flowers: gentians, edelweiss, martagon lilies
⚠️ Mountain Safety Tips
The final section to the summit includes exposed and rocky paths with fixed cables. Keep these safety tips in mind:
- Wear mountain hiking shoes
- Check the weather forecast carefully
- Start your hike early
- Not recommended for people with severe fear of heights
📸 Why Visit Dent d’Oche?
Whether you're an alpine photographer, seasoned hiker, or simply in search of epic scenery, Dent d’Oche delivers. It's one of the most dramatic ridges in the French pre-Alps and a perfect challenge before tackling higher alpine peaks.
🚗 Getting There
- Closest town: Évian-les-Bains (15 km)
- Start point: Parking de la Fétiuère (Bernex)
- Access: Mountain road, free parking at trailhead
- No ski lifts: preserved natural site
🔗 Useful Resources
🗺️ A Must-See Jewel of the Chablais Alps
High above Lake Geneva, Dent d’Oche is a raw, rugged, and rewarding alpine escape. Whether for a day hike, an overnight at the mountain hut, or a challenging training ground for mountaineers, it is one of the most spectacular peaks of the Alps du Léman.
