Les Lindarets is a small alpine village near Avoriaz, famous for its free-roaming goats and traditional mountain atmosphere. Located above Lake Montriond in the Portes du Soleil region, the village offers scenic views, rustic restaurants, and a glimpse into authentic alpine life. Best visited between late spring and early autumn, Les Lindarets is an easy and rewarding stop for families, hikers, and anyone exploring the French Alps.
Where Is Les Lindarets?
Les Lindarets is located in Haute-Savoie, in eastern France, between Morzine, Montriond, and Avoriaz. It sits at around 1,460 meters altitude, making it easily accessible in summer and early autumn, when the mountain roads are open and the pastures are green.
- 10 minutes from Lake Montriond
- 15 minutes from Morzine
- Around 20 minutes from Avoriaz (by road or lifts)
Its location makes it an ideal stop on a scenic drive or as part of a hiking route through the Alps.
.jpg "Les Lindarets Alpine Landscape")
Why Is Les Lindarets Famous?
Les Lindarets is best known for its free-roaming goats, which wander through the streets, rest on balconies, and casually block traffic. These goats belong to local farmers and are brought to the alpine pastures during the warmer months, following a long-standing mountain tradition known as alpage.
What makes Les Lindarets special is how naturally this tradition blends with village life. There are no fences, no staged interactions, and no performances, just goats going about their day while visitors quietly observe.
This authenticity is a big part of why the village has become so popular without losing its charm.
What to Expect When You Visit?
🐐 Goats Everywhere
Dozens of goats roam freely through the village, often lying in the middle of the road or gathering near restaurants. They are generally calm and used to people, but visitors are encouraged to respect them and avoid feeding or chasing them.
🏔 Traditional Alpine Architecture
Les Lindarets is made up of classic Savoyard wooden chalets, many of which house small restaurants, mountain inns, or cheese shops. The village has retained its traditional look, with flower-filled balconies and mountain views in every direction.
🍽 Mountain Restaurants
The village is known for its rustic alpine restaurants, serving local specialties such as:
- Tartiflette
- Raclette
- Croûtes savoyardes
- Local cheeses and charcuterie
Dining here feels relaxed and unhurried, especially when goats wander past your table.
Is Les Lindarets Worth Visiting?
Absolutely, especially if you enjoy:
- Authentic alpine villages
- Scenic mountain views
- Easy hikes
- Traveling with children
- Photography and slow travel
Les Lindarets doesn’t require a full day. Most visitors spend 1–2 hours, longer if they stop for lunch or combine the visit with hiking or Lake Montriond.
.jpg "Goat Statue Les Lindarets")
How to Get to Les Lindarets?
🚗 By Car
The most convenient option in summer. Parking is available just outside the village.
🚶 On Foot
Several well-marked hiking trails lead to Les Lindarets from Morzine, Montriond, and Avoriaz.
🚡 By Ski Lifts (Summer Season)
From Avoriaz or the Portes du Soleil area, some lifts operate in summer, allowing scenic access combined with hiking.
Best Time to Visit Les Lindarets?
Late May to September
This is when the goats are in the village and the roads are open. Summer offers lush green landscapes and mild temperatures.
July & August
The busiest months, especially midday. Visiting early morning or later in the afternoon is more peaceful.
Autumn
Quieter, cooler, and atmospheric, though goat numbers may vary later in the season.
Winter:
Les Lindarets is generally inaccessible by car in winter and becomes part of the ski area, reachable only by lifts.
Our Visit to Les Lindarets
We visited Les Lindarets during a summer stay in Avoriaz and reached the village easily using the ski lifts. Seeing the village in person was even more charming than expected, with its traditional alpine look and goats wandering freely through the streets.
The interaction with the animals was a highlight, especially for the kids. Food to feed the goats is available in the local shops, which adds to the experience, but it’s worth being cautious with younger children. Once you start feeding them, the goats tend to gather quickly, and what feels fun at first can become overwhelming for small kids if they’re not prepared. With a bit of supervision, though, it’s a memorable and genuinely unique experience.
.jpg "Mountain Restaurants in Les Lindarets")
Nearby Places to Combine with Your Visit
- Lake Montriond: One of the most beautiful alpine lakes in the region
- Morzine: Lively alpine town with shops and cafés
- Avoriaz: Car-free resort with panoramic views
- Portes du Soleil hikes: Endless summer trail options
FAQ - Les Lindarets
What is Les Lindarets known for?
Les Lindarets is known as the “goat village” near Avoriaz, where goats roam freely through the streets during the summer months.
Is Les Lindarets worth visiting?
Yes. Les Lindarets offers an authentic alpine atmosphere, free-roaming goats, mountain restaurants, and beautiful scenery, making it a popular stop in the French Alps.
When is the best time to visit Les Lindarets?
The best time to visit is from late May to September, when the goats are in the village and mountain roads are open.
Can you visit Les Lindarets in winter?
In winter, Les Lindarets is usually inaccessible by car and becomes part of the ski area, reachable only via ski lifts.
Is Les Lindarets good for families?
Yes. Families enjoy Les Lindarets for its relaxed setting, animals, short walks, and casual dining options. Children should always be supervised around the goats.
How long should you spend in Les Lindarets?
Most visitors spend 1–2 hours, longer if they stop for lunch or combine the visit with Lake Montriond or nearby hikes.
.jpg "Goat Posing for Picture")
Visit this Gem in the French Alps
Les Lindarets is not about ticking off attractions or rushing through landmarks. It’s about slowing down, breathing mountain air, and experiencing a living alpine tradition that still feels genuine. If you’re staying nearby or just passing through, this small village offers a memorable glimpse into alpine life, simple, beautiful, and refreshingly real.
If you’re exploring the French Alps near Avoriaz, Les Lindarets is more than worth the detour.