Le Môle
Mountain Massif peak in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes near Geneva
Prominent peak near Geneva in Auvergne‑Rhône‑Alpes offering marked hikes, a ridge trail and panoramic viewpoints used by walkers for day excursions.
Le Môle is an isolated mountain massif in the French Alps, in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. It rises prominently above the Arve valley and the surrounding plain.
The summit sits at 1,863 metres and provides panoramic views over the Arve valley and, on clear days, the higher ranges including the Mont Blanc massif. The mountain is a familiar local landmark visible from towns in the valley and is used for day hikes and short alpine outings.
Geologically Le Môle is part of the subalpine formations shaped by alpine uplift and glacial erosion; its distinctive isolated form has long made it a reference point for local travel and mapping.
Le Môle overlooks the Arve valley in Haute-Savoie, positioned between the lowland towns that line the valley and the higher Alpine chain, within reach of the Geneva metropolitan area.
- Elevation: Summit elevation is 1,863 metres, making the peak a distinct landmark above the Arve valley and visible from the surrounding plain.
- Best views: Clear, unobstructed panoramas from the summit include views across the Arve valley and toward the Mont Blanc massif on a clear day, so weather can dramatically affect visibility.
How to Get to Le Môle #
From Geneva or Annemasse, drive on the D1204 and local roads toward the town of Taninges or Bonneville, depending on the chosen trailhead. Public buses serve some of the valley villages in summer; check local timetables.
Tips for Visiting Le Môle #
- If doing the summit circuit, start early - the ridge can be exposed to strong winds in the afternoon.
- Look back toward Lake Geneva from the ridgeline on clear days; the view is more expansive than maps suggest.
Best Time to Visit Le Môle #
Best in summer for walking and in winter only for experienced, properly equipped parties.
Weather & Climate near Le Môle #
Le Môle's climate is classified as Subarctic - Subarctic climate with cool summers (peaking in August) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -5°C to 18°C. Abundant rainfall (1624 mm/year), wettest in December, distributed fairly evenly throughout the year.
January
January is the coldest month with highs of 1°C and lows of -5°C. Significant rainfall (154 mm).
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February
February is freezing with highs of 2°C and lows of -5°C. Significant rainfall (154 mm).
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March
March is freezing with highs of 4°C and lows of -4°C. Significant rainfall (131 mm).
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April
April is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of -2°C. Significant rainfall (121 mm).
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May
May is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 3°C. Significant rainfall (127 mm).
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June
June is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 6°C. Significant rainfall (128 mm).
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July
July is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 9°C. Significant rainfall (107 mm).
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August
August is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 9°C. Significant rainfall (112 mm).
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September
September is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 6°C. Significant rainfall (116 mm).
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October
October is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of 3°C. Significant rainfall (140 mm).
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November
November is cold with highs of 4°C and lows of -2°C. Significant rainfall (165 mm).
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December
December is freezing with highs of 2°C and lows of -4°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (169 mm).