Pierrick is one of the ambassadors Cairn for several seasons and never tires of exploring his favorite playground!
Summer or winter, he sets out to discover but especially rediscover the landscapes that surround him, as they transform with the seasons. Hiking, trail running, skiing or a simple outing in nature: all occasions are good for putting on shoes or skis.
Today, he takes us with him to his 3 favorite spots between Annecy and the Aravis.
At home, between La Tournette and the Aravis
"I live in the Thônes valley, right between La Tournette and the Aravis.
I love this place: there's everything to live, have fun and train, no matter the season.
It's the ideal playground to run, pedal, ride, climb and enjoy every outing with friends!"
SPOT 1: LA TOURNETTE
La Tournette is a must for Pierrick: he can access it directly from his home without taking the car and he goes there all year round.
In trail running, there are many routes to vary the pleasures.
In ski touring, the spot is just as perfect, offering beautiful climbs and incredible panoramas.
"For me, it's a very complete place: I can train, escape and enjoy myself without going far."
The anecdote
"One day with my family, we left for a sunrise. Departure at 3:30 am with a headlamp, arrival at the top of a ridge, we take out the chocolate and there, surprise: two ibexes were sitting just behind us, calmly watching us. It's a massif where we often see them, and they are far from shy!"
SPOT 2: LA POINTE PERCÉE
La Pointe Percée is another big favorite of Pierrick. Accessible from his home, it offers a varied and demanding playground.
In trail running, several variations allow creating routes adapted to each outing.
In ski touring, it's a superb spot to enjoy great conditions and a wilder atmosphere.
"La Pointe Percée is a place where I go as much to train as to disconnect. I love its technical and preserved side."
The anecdote
"Once again, we left early to see the sunrise, same scenario: departure with a headlamp, chocolate in hand. At the moment the light was rising, we realized we weren't alone: two ibexes were discreetly watching us. Moments like that, you don't forget."
SPOT 3: LA POINTE DE MERDASSIER
Less known, La Pointe de Merdassier marks the border between Manigod and La Clusaz.
Pierrick particularly likes to climb it at night to enjoy the sunrise on the Savoie side. Once at the top, the 360° view is incredible: Col des Aravis, Mont Blanc, l'Étale, La Tournette and all the surrounding valleys.
In trail running, it's a small vertical kilometer that's well worth it.
In winter, it can also be climbed in ski touring from the slopes of La Clusaz, continuing to the summit via l'Épaule.
"And for sunset lovers, it's also perfect at the end of the day!"
The little extra
"What I love about this spot is that it's convenient: it can even fit into my commute between home and the office. Just get up a little earlier, grab some water, a jacket, and voilà, a summit before work! Then, I stop to pick up some croissants. Isn't life beautiful?!"
IN SUMMARY
For Pierrick, the Aravis are much more than a backdrop: it's an endless playground, ideal for alternating between trail running, hiking, skiing, and great adventures with friends.
A daily life paced by nature, freedom, and the passion for sports.
