Location and surroundings
Tête d'Aufferand is situated in France, within the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region and the Upper Savoy district, inside the municipality of Annecy. Geographically, it belongs to the Aravis Range, which is part of the Northwestern Alps, the Western Alps, the Alps, and the broader Central European Highlands of Europe. Within the Aravis Range, it holds the 63rd rank out of 102 named peaks by elevation. The surrounding landscape features rugged alpine terrain typical of the pre-alpine ranges in Upper Savoy.
Neighbouring peaks
The immediate vicinity of Tête d'Aufferand features several peaks and passes that define its topography:
- Pointe de la Botte (peak), 1,807 m, 0.6 km NW
- Col de la Colombière (mountain pass), 1,613 m, 1.0 km NW
- Pic De Jalouvre (Pointe Blanche) (peak), 2,438 m, 2.4 km NW
- La Nouvelle (peak), 1,955 m, 2.5 km S
- Pointe du Midi (peak), 2,364 m, 2.6 km N
- Pic de Jallouvre (peak), 2,408 m, 2.6 km NW
- Le Buclon (peak), 2,072 m, 2.9 km W
- Mont Lachat de Châtillon (peak), 2,050 m, 3.0 km S
Standing at 1,980 m, Tête d'Aufferand is lower than several of these immediate neighbours, such as Pic De Jalouvre (Pointe Blanche) and Pointe du Midi, while sitting higher than local passes like Col de la Colombière and nearby eminences like Pointe de la Botte.
The view from the summit
From the summit of Tête d'Aufferand, observers can spot several major mountain giants located within a 25 km radius. The highest peak within this range is Pointe Percée (2,750 m), situated 6.5 km SE. Other notable summits visible in the wider landscape include Tête à l'Ane (2,804 m) at 22.9 km E, Tête du Colonney (2,692 m) at 16.1 km E, and La Grande Torchère (2,616 m) located 10.3 km S. These prominent regional giants shape the expansive horizons visible from the top.
The range
Tête d'Aufferand is a part of the Aravis Range, which forms a segment of the Northwestern Alps within the Western Alps. The highest peak of the entire Aravis Range is Pointe Percée, reaching 2,750 m and located 6 km SE of Tête d'Aufferand. The range contains 102 named peaks in total, among which Tête d'Aufferand ranks as the 63rd highest.
Climate and weather
Climate data for the summit and surrounding area are estimates derived from NASA POWER climate data covering 2001 through 2020, with temperatures adjusted to the summit elevation of 1,980 m. At the summit, the warmest month is July with a mean temperature of about 11 °C, while the coldest month is January at about -4 °C. Precipitation in the surrounding area totals about 1,100 mm annually, with May being the wettest month at about 110 mm and February the driest at about 75 mm. Typical weather hazards in this mountain environment include sudden storms, fog, high winds, and rapid temperature drops.
Best time to visit
Months with a mean temperature above freezing at the summit include April, May, June, July, August, September, and October. Considering both the thermal conditions and precipitation patterns—such as the relatively drier conditions in late winter and the warmer months spanning from spring to autumn—the period from late spring through early autumn offers the most accessible window for visits, while winter conditions require proper cold-weather alpine equipment and experience.
Nature and wildlife
The landscape around Tête d'Aufferand showcases the typical flora and fauna of the Northwestern Alps at an elevation of nearly 2,000 metres. Vegetation transitions from montane forests and subalpine meadows lower down to rugged rock and sparse alpine tundra near the summit. Typical wildlife in this region includes chamois, ibex, marmots, and various alpine birds adapted to high-altitude rocky environments and seasonal snow cover.
Guides and organised ascents
For high-altitude terrain and variable alpine conditions, hiring a certified mountain guide is advisable for safety and navigation. In France, professional guides belong to the French National Mountain Guides Union (Syndicat National des Guides de Montagne (SNGM)), which is an IFMGA/UIAGM member association. The national alpine club is the Fédération Française des Clubs Alpins et de Montagne (FFCAM). Visitors seeking organised ascents or instruction can turn to established guiding companies operating within the country, such as the Compagnie des Guides de Chamonix based in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. A guided ascent typically includes professional leadership, safety instruction, and technical support, with pricing usually dependent on the number of days, group size, required hut nights, and specialized equipment.
Safety and preparation
Climbing or hiking around Tête d'Aufferand demands respect for mountain weather, proper footwear, navigation tools, and adequate clothing for sudden shifts in conditions. In case of an emergency in the mountains, dial 112. In France, calls to 112 are routed directly to the competent rescue service, which is usually the gendarmerie PGHM or CRS Montagne.
Interesting facts
Tête d'Aufferand stands as the 63rd highest peak among the 102 named summits in the Aravis Range. Its nearest higher peak is Pic De Jalouvre (Pointe Blanche) at an elevation of 2,438 m, located 2.4 km NW. Additionally, the highest point of the entire range, Pointe Percée (2,750 m), lies just 6 km SE.
FAQ
How high is Tête d'Aufferand? The summit elevation of Tête d'Aufferand is 1,980 m.
Where is Tête d'Aufferand located? It is located in France, within the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, the Upper Savoy district, and the municipality of Annecy.
What mountain range does it belong to? It belongs to the Aravis Range, situated within the Northwestern Alps, Western Alps, Alps, and Central European Highlands.
What are the nearest peaks and passes? The closest features include Pointe de la Botte (0.6 km NW), Col de la Colombière (1.0 km NW), and Pic De Jalouvre (Pointe Blanche) (2.4 km NW).
Is there water on the way to Tête d'Aufferand? There are no specific springs, streams, or huts with verified water sources listed in the database. Walkers should rely on general alpine preparation, carrying 1.5 to 3 litres of water depending on the weather and length of the trip, and treat any natural water encountered.
What is the mobile phone coverage like? Coverage in the hills is patchy and depends entirely on the operator, signal strength, and terrain obstructions. However, 112 reaches emergency services over any available network, and digital maps should always be downloaded before setting out.