On my walk in late May, I simply walked straight out to Grand Cunay and back. But below I've provided a map that includes a possible alternate return route (as yet untested by me.)
This walk takes you through wonderful diverse terrain. The nature of the trail varies from rough root covered ground, to stony dirt roads to grasslands as you climb.
These Early Purple Orchids were everywhere on the Grand Cunay during the third week in May when we made this hike. Note the distinctive spotted foliage.
The trail begins in the forest, passing over many exposed tree roots. This is a busy path in the summer months, but when we walked it in the early evening, we had it very much to ourselves.
In the middle ages, this widespread European plant from the daisy family was thought to ward off the plague. The name Butterbur is believed to have come from the practice of wrapping butter in the plants large rhubarb like leaves to help preserve the butter and keep it clean.
Two thirds of the way to the Grand Cunay, you'll come to the Chalet / Alpage at the Monts de Bière Derrière.
The last part of the climb to the top of the Grand Cunay is steep. But the magnificent views in all directions at the top provide an ample reward.
The alpage at the Grand Cunay. They've helpfully provided a big emergency number on the side just incase. Not sure if this is a reassuring or alarming, but some years back we actually witnessed a Swiss helicopter emergency rescue along this trail.
Some days, Mont Blanc just seems to be showing off! This photo was taken at around halfway up the hill to the Grand Cunay.
MARCHAIRUZ TO GRAND CUNAY
Route as illustrated in this presentation, but with an alternate return path that we have not yet tested.
This is the point where you could choose the alternate return path heading off to the left. Note that there is no indication on this sign post of where that trail leads. But it does appear to be the trail on the map which leads off towards Monts de Biere Devant.