Tour d'Aï

From forest trails to mountain side flowery fields and impressive ridges, this accessible hike offers stunning views of Lac Léman and the Alpes Valaisannes whilst promising a challenge for the whole group. There are multiple options to make this hike the most suitable for you, wether it be with the full elevation gain from Leysin to la Berneuse, or taking the gondola up to la Berneuse before attaching the rock tower, or hiking the whole thing from Leysin to Tour d’Aï. 

From the last train stop, Leysin Grand Hotel, follow the road east to the start of the trail found in the forest. The first part is quite steep, zig-zagging through the forest until the crossing with a larger gravel road. Follow this one up left until you reach the Refuge de Temeley offering home-made tarts and refreshments. The path continues right for a couple of meters and then take a left unto the small dirt path which goes all the way to la Berneuse.

From there, after having enjoyed the view of Lac Leman, follow the larger path down to Lac d’Aï towards the two rock towers. Near a chair lift arriver, take a left unto another dirt path indicated in blue as Tour d’Aï. Now the fun begins! You’ll come across some ladders and railing to help with the climb. The path can get narrow in some section, but not to worry, it is very well maintained and should be no problem at all. For the descent, go back the same way to the Lac d’Aï (where you can also enjoy a cold beer in the traditional stone farm huts). Instead of going back up, take a left following the signs to Leysin village.