bouvierjr

Spectacular hike to the hanging gardens of Charassons with two magnificent arches to discover.As the Marcieu valley is entirely private, the hike never passes through it and always remains on authorised terrain. This hike is extremely difficult, beyond what is usual on Visorando, and requires climbing a short 3c section (a single move). An ice axe is recommended even (especially) in summer to tackle the steep slopes of the hanging gardens without stress. Most of the hike takes place on unmarked and (very) poorly marked paths. See Practical Information. This hike takes place largely at the foot of cliffs. Geolocation (GPS, etc.) is therefore approximate, with errors exceeding 40 m. You must therefore use your brain and critical thinking skills and act according to the terrain. As is often the case, this hike is a variation on a theme by Pascal Sombardier.

This splendid alternative to the usual linear route takes in more than 20 lakes around the Mont Thabor viewpoint. Setting off early in the morning allows you to avoid the crowds and enjoy the many sunrises behind the peaks. A short section of the walk is off-trail and requires navigating by sight, but it’s easy to find your way.

A superb hike that takes in four peaks bordering the Combe de la Prison and offers views of two natural wonders made famous by Pascal Sombardier: the Arche aux Saxifrages and the Arche de la Fuvelle. Chamois and solitude guaranteed! Almost the entire route is off-trail.

One of the most beautiful hikes in Belledonne, between Isère and Savoie. The route, which is mainly off-trail, crosses the legendary Aiguilles de l’Argentière, runs alongside a beautiful glacier in the massif, takes in three high-altitude passes and offers views of splendid lakes and small lakes. ⚠️The abundance of wildlife and the extraordinary landscapes add at least 1 to 2 hours to this hike compared to Visorando’s estimate, not to mention the off-trail terrain; you should allow for around 8 hours of walking.

There are several ‘Rochers de l’Homme’ in Belledonne; the highest, at 2,755 m, is also one of the least visited. Like all the prominent peaks in the range, it offers an exceptional panorama stretching from Mont Blanc to the Écrins and from the Chartreuse to the Cerces, with the added bonus of a spectacular view of the west face of the Grand Pic. This off-trail hike between Lac Blanc and the Combe de la Pierre requires sure-footedness to climb the southern ridge of the Rocher de l’Homme. Watch out for ibex.

The Tête de Colombe (3,022 m) is a magnificent vantage point accessible to walkers, situated on the ridge running from the eponymous Roche Colombe to the Grand Galibier. Ibex are abundant here; there are no signposted paths leading to this ridge, with the exception of a few cairn-marked tracks. The spectacular panorama over the highest peaks of the Écrins, Grandes Rousses, Cerces and Queyras stretches as far as Mont Blanc and Viso.

The panoramic view from the summit of the Grand Morétan is exceptional, with the highest peaks of the French, Swiss and Italian Alps all in view. This route, half of which is off-trail, crosses the wild glacial cirque of the Glacier du Gleyzin and reaches the summit via the Col Nord du Gleyzin. A variant described here also allows you to pass via the Col Morétan.

Much of this magnificent hike takes place off the beaten track, but the going is easy. Pic Ombière was given this name by regulars at the Refuge du Chardonnet, where the drink of the same name is consumed in abundance in ‘demis’ – a term which gave its name to the Pointe du Demi to the north of the peak. The IGN accepted these names without giving them a second thought and, ever since, a merry band of revellers has celebrated the occasion every year at the refuge, which is always fully booked.

A magnificent circular hike that avoids a mundane return trip to the Aiguille Rouge. This hike ventures off the marked trails on a few occasions, but civilisation is always in sight, so it’s impossible to get lost. After the superb viewpoint at the Aiguille Rouge, the route takes in two lakes as well as a multitude of fairy chimneys in the Combe des Thures.

This short hike takes you quickly to one of the most beautiful viewpoints in Dévoluy, offering views of the entire syncline and the peaks of Vercors Nord, Chartreuse, Taillefer and Oisans. The view towards the turquoise Sautet Lake is spectacular and, with a bit of luck, a sea of clouds will add a romantic touch to the landscape. Grouse and chamois abound on the slopes of the Gicon and can be seen if you are discreet enough.

This fun and spectacular variation on the magnificent ascent of the Grande Tête de l’Obiou allows you to complete a circular loop, climbing up the splendid Cheminée du Petit Obiou wedged between the stone pillars of this wild summit, then squeezing through the two narrow passages on the east face of the Grand Obiou. A few short sections of easy climbing (maximum 3c) and a route largely off the beaten track lend the hike a sense of wild adventure.

The title of this hike should be “Bivouac at Puy Gris”, as this viewpoint offers a unique experience to anyone spending a night there under the stars: splendid sunsets and sunrises against a magnificent panorama, the finest in Belledonne. Magnificent lakes dot the route and alpine wildlife is a regular sight. Any difficult hike requires preparation, and this very difficult hike demands careful planning beforehand.

A spectacular alternative route up the Pic de Rochebrune, which explores the wild Casse des Clausins – home to golden eagles and edelweiss – and returns to the Col de l’Izoard via the Casse Déserte and the monoliths of l’Agnel. The peak, the highest in the Briançonnais region, offers panoramic views of the French, Swiss and Italian peaks. A good quarter of the walk takes place off the marked trail, and reaching the summit requires a single grade 3 climbing move on very good rock. Moderator’s note: access to the Pic de Rochebrune has been authorised again since 22 July 2024 following the rockfalls of 2023. However, it is advisable to consult the guidelines provided via this link

A very beautiful circular route allowing you to get up close to the ibex and, at times, to use your hands on the rocks leading to the Grande Moucherolle, the border between the Northern and Southern Vercors, whilst avoiding the ski runs. The hike follows a path that is partly faint and sparsely marked with cairns, and even off-trail along the ridges, but the route is always clear. The karst landscapes of the Pré de l'Achard are stunning and very quiet.

A hike of superlatives, combining the most beautiful landscapes of the Northern Chartreuse with four little-visited arches, as well as magnificent limestone formations including the Dromadaire, the Griffes and the Grotte de l’Ours. The route alternates between barely marked, idyllic paths, vertiginous ridges and vast sharp limestone pavements, and runs largely off the beaten track. This hike requires a good level of fitness; please read the warning in the practical information carefully.

Ascent to the Tête de Garnesier, a viewpoint overlooking La Jarjatte and La Cluse, and return via the Tête des Ormans and the Tour Carrée. The ascent takes you through the magnificent Durbon forest and the chamois meadows below the Col de Plate-Contier before tackling the rocky landscape of the Dévoluy ridges. At the summit, the view is breathtaking.The return route, partly off-trail, follows the cliff ridge leading to the Tour Carrée.

A magnificent route around the Tours du Vallon, exploring numerous lakes and viewpoints offering unique views of the summits of Mont Thabor, Séru and Rois Mages. This walk is ideal when the golden larch trees stand out against the deep blue of the clear autumn skies and are reflected in the emerald waters of the famous Lac Vert, the highlight of the outing. More than two-thirds of the walk is off-trail, but it is easy to find your way.

The Pics du Combeynot viewpoints are two promontories offering the finest views of the Écrins and Cerces mountain ranges. Set well apart from these massifs – close enough to observe them in detail yet far enough away to avoid obstruction – they overlook the highest peaks: Pelvoux, Barre des Écrins, Meije, Galibier, Mont Blanc, Thabor, Viso… The Pic Ouest is a few metres higher, but the view is more spectacular from the Pic Est, which is also easier to reach.

The Col de Burlan, between the Vallon de la Selle and the Cirque du Soreiller, offers the most spectacular views across the whole of the Oisans, without requiring any climbing. Higher than the Dibona, the ascent allows you to watch the stream of mountaineers abseiling down from this sharp peak. A short section of the route is off-trail, but the route and direction are clear. The final ascent to the pass is, however, very steep. Several interesting alternatives are described.

A superb viewpoint between Puy Gris and Pic du Frêne, easily accessible and offering a magnificent panorama of the main peaks of the French Alps. This walk takes place largely off the beaten track or along very faint paths, but there are no navigation difficulties in good weather, as the terrain offers plenty of landmarks. Vultures, chamois and ibex can be spotted, particularly below the Pointe du Villonet.

A very beautiful circular route linking two of the peaks overlooking the Col de Porte, via a picturesque and relatively quiet route. The peaks and ridges offer superb views of the Chartreuse and the surrounding mountain ranges: Vercors, Dévoluy, Taillefer, Oisans, Grandes Rousses and Belledonne.As the ascent is mainly in the shade, this hike—ideal for hot weather—presents no technical difficulties; however, care should be taken on the Vermorel path.

A breathtaking circular route linking together numerous wonders: the rugged Pas des Charassons, the scenic Crête de l’Alpette, the magnificent Écaille du Pas de Ragris, the famous Tour Percée, the precarious Arche Miracle and the beautiful Aup du Seuil pass. This hike, covering less than 13km with 1,500m of elevation gain, requires a good sense of direction and sure-footedness (short sections of grade 3c climbing). Please note: the IGN topographic map is completely unreliable here! An agreement has been signed between the department and the owner of the 800 hectares in the Hauts de Chartreuse nature reserve to allow free access to the two paths that run across the Marcieu plateau. The exit at Pas des Charassons, which leads back onto the plateau, joins one of these paths within a few metres. You may request permission to pass from the landowner, although there are no visible prohibition signs on the ground.

Around fifteen lakes, two peaks over 2,800 metres, and breathtaking views: this hike deserves every superlative. The route takes in almost all the lakes of the Allevard massif on either side of the Col des Sept Laux and culminates at the two summits of the Toit, from where the view takes in a magnificent landscape. Please note: crampons and an ice axe are essential in all seasons.

A very beautiful, uncrowded walk leading to the splendid viewpoint at the Tête de l’Aupet and winding through two wild valleys where chamois and marmots seek refuge. The summit offers a spectacular view of its two higher neighbours, the Grand Ferrand and the Obiou, as well as the ridge connecting them and the neighbouring Vercors and Oisans mountain ranges. Please note: the route is mainly off-trail but does not present any navigation difficulties. See the ‘Practical information’ section.

A splendid circular route around the Moucherotte, allowing you to (literally) pass through the rock to reach a ledge right on the cliff face above Grenoble, where you can enjoy a unique view of the city and the mountain ranges from Belledonne to Dévoluy, taking in Les Rousses, Oisans and Le Taillefer. The wild Vallon des Forges is on the itinerary.This hike may require a 30-metre rope (or a 15-metre abseil rope as an alternative) in the Trou Saint-Michel if you’re not comfortable descending a grade 3 section.

A pleasant hike, half of which is in the magnificent Génieux forest and the other half in the Hurtières and Vararey mountain pastures. The route, which runs off the marked trail along the Crête du Rocher de Lorzier, offers spectacular views of the Gorges de Crossey and the Voironnais, then, from the summit of Rocher de Chalves, of the Chartreuse, Belledonne, Dévoluy, Taillefer and Vercors ranges and peaks. The trail is poorly marked in the forest, so a GPS is recommended.

This hike takes you to a series of lakes set like precious stones along the path from the Oursière waterfalls to the Col de la Pra, between wave-cut rocks and alpine flora. This route, which is partly off-trail, is particularly treacherous: there is no way to keep to a schedule, as the fascinating landscapes compel you to linger and contemplate. A small part of the route is off-trail but there are no difficulties with orientation.

An original way to explore Lac des Balmettes and its pass, continuing on to the Col du Villonet – offering a front-row view of the imposing Pic du Frêne – and then on to the Brèches de la Passoire, which provide a superb view of the Grésivaudan.Along the way, you’ll spot ibex and chamois in the magnificent and little-visited Combe Rousse.The route is partly off-trail but poses no navigation difficulties.

A challenging hike through a spectacular landscape where gigantic, jagged granite cliffs drop sheer down to a wild glacier. The lack of paths for most of the ascent helps to create an atmosphere of adventure and solitude reminiscent of expeditions in Patagonia or the Karakoram. ⚠️ It is essential to read the practical information before undertaking this extremely difficult hike.

A hike (without any climbing) to a superb vantage point offering a panoramic view of the entire French Alps. The jagged Tour Noire marks the southern end of the central core of the Cerces and is the highest point of the hike. The descent then takes you between the Rochers de Privé and the Pointe de Buffère, then past the Lac du Privé and its enchanting valley dotted with larch trees that turn golden in autumn. ⚠️ More than half of the route is off the beaten track.

An introductory hike through one of the most beautiful landscapes in Belledonne, amidst the Aiguilles de l’Argentière. After climbing the Col de la Combe, the route leaves any defined path behind to explore the weathered rocks forming the northern foothills of the Aiguilles, eventually reaching the wild Col de la Marmottane, home to chamois and ibex. The descent takes you past the magnificent Lac de la Croix and its splendid valley.

A splendid route, partly off-trail, offering views of the north face of the Aiguilles de l'Argentière and its reflections in the emerald lakes of Sambuis and La Croix: panoramic views. Many ibex frequent the rocky outcrops above the lakes. This hike presents no difficulty apart from the elevation gain and finding the route (4km without markings).

A magnificent circular route ascending to the Pointe des Cerces via the wild valley of Lac Sorcier, then exploring the Cerces lakes and those of the Col des Rochilles, before finishing at the headwaters of the Clarée and its upper valley. A very rocky start to the hike is followed by a peaceful return through the greenery lining the river. ⚠️ This very challenging route requires a good command of walking on scree or steep snowfields as well as along ridges, and crampons and an ice axe are essential even in the complete absence of snow.

A classic hike in the Clarée Valley, set against the magnificent backdrop of one of France’s most beautiful landscapes.This easy walk allows you to admire the reflections of the Cerces and Écrins mountains in the crystal-clear waters of the many Gardioles lakes. The scenery is so breathtaking that you should allow at least an hour or two longer than the scheduled time to complete the circular walk.Much of the route takes you far from the beaten track, sometimes off any path at all.

A circular walk through a rocky landscape shaped by glaciers and dotted with mirror-like lakes. After the peaceful mountain pastures of Lac Léat above the Haut Bréda valley and then the Combe Grasse, the walk takes you to the passes and peaks surrounding Puy Gris before descending towards the scenic setting formed by the lakes of Grande Valloire. The hike can be done with an overnight stay in a mountain hut and can be combined with the easy ascent of Puy Gris: see the ‘During the hike’ section.

A hike to two magnificent lakes in a relatively uncrowded valley in the Oisans. From the bottom of the Vallon de la Mariande, the path disappears, giving way to adventure and trails that are sometimes poorly marked. The glacial lakes dotted with snowfields and the rocky landscapes where ibex and chamois roam reward hikers for their efforts. Please note: this difficult route is only suitable for hikers accustomed to off-trail walking on steep terrain.

A short round trip through the sumptuous and little-visited Étages valley, between the summit of the Encoula and the peaks of the Étret and the Fétoules. The Oisans’ reputation for endless approach walks is well deserved. A few valleys break the mould and offer quick access to the summits: this is the case with the Étages valley, which allows you to reach the bivouacs beneath the glaciers in a short time. The logical absence of a refuge explains why the valley is so little frequented, even in high season.

This magnificent hike leads to a viewpoint offering an absolutely unique view of the Soreiller massif and the peaks of the Grande Ruine. At the Col de l’Ours or the Tête de Malacombe, the panorama of the most beautiful peaks of the Oisans is exceptional. After a rocky ascent, the return route via Lac des Fétoules and the Muande valley is particularly picturesque. ⚠️ Part of the route is off-trail and requires a good understanding of the terrain.

A wild hike around the Vaunoire waterfalls and along the exposed ridge leading to the Grand Armet (2,792m), a viewpoint offering a unique panorama of the Dévoluy, the entire eastern barrier of the Vercors, the Taillefer, Belledonne, Mont Blanc, the Grandes Rousses, and the whole of the Oisans. Much of the route is off-trail and requires a (very) good sense of direction or the use of a GPS. The ridge, almost 2 km long, presents no technical difficulty but is exposed.

A circuit and ascent to Belledonne’s finest viewpoint, amidst the ibex. Climbing the Grande Lance de Domène is straightforward, but the return via the Col des Lances requires an ice axe and crampons in all seasons, and the very steep scree on the north face invariably turns the hiker into a left-turning dahu. Between the Col des Lances and Lac du Loup, the Glacier de la Sitre and its lake form one of the wildest landscapes in the range, where you may encounter eagles and chamois.

A stunning circular route around one of the most beautiful valleys in the Alps, the Ferrand Valley, leading to the Râteau des Rousses and the turquoise Lac des Malatres. The route follows the Ferrand stream as far as the waterfalls, then bypasses the main path leading to Lac des Quirlies, before climbing to the impressive Pic du Râteau des Rousses — the only technical challenge — and returns to the valley via magnificent lakes, glaciers and meadows dotted with rounded boulders. Solitude and wonder guaranteed!

A very beautiful loop, much less frequented than the classic Mont Granier route, starting from the beautiful church of Bellecombe and particularly pleasant in summer. After the Porte de l'Alpette, the hike runs along almost the entire cliff face of the mountain, passing through the magnificent "gardens" of the upper Alpette du Granier and returning to the Pas de la Porte pass overlooking the Grésivaudan valley.

At 3,049m, Pointe de Malhaubert is the highest of the peaks surrounding Lac du Vallon above Chantelouve, offering a unique, unobstructed 360° panorama of all the Alpine massifs.Ibex, chamois and griffon vultures frequent the nearby peaks and slopes. Warning:Reaching the summit requires proficiency in ridge walking (grade 3 climbing, with constant exposure) both on the ascent and descent. The snowfields require crampons and an ice axe, as well as an early start.

A physically demanding and challenging circular walk just a few minutes from Grenoble. After climbing the Draye des Communaux, the route passes through the magnificent interlacing formations of sharp limestone pavement at the Gouffre Berger, before reaching the summit of La Sure, where the view of Mont Blanc, the Chartreuse, Belledonne and Grenoble is as breathtaking as the drop-off beneath the cliff.You then head towards La Buffe (optional) and return via the (disused) Mortier tunnel. Only to be attempted in very dry weather!

A circular walk along old, rarely used paths, offering the chance to discover the natural wonders around the spectacular Crête des Crocs: the magnificent Arche des Crocs, the Pierre Fendue, the ‘Main’, the Rocher de l’Ours with its unique view of the Roc Cornafion, and the Crête des Crocs with its bird’s-eye view of the Col de l’Arc and the Pic Saint-Michel. The main challenge is finding your way, as the paths are very poorly marked. Please take care; see the practical information.

This superb hike starting from Allemont passes by the lake, the pass and the Croix de Belledonne before descending through the very wild Bâton valley and past the Lacs du Bœuf and du Bois. Half of the route is completely off-trail, allowing you to observe wildlife and listen to the sounds of the mountains in complete tranquillity. This challenging route requires crampons and an ice axe in all seasons and a night-time start in summer (see practical information).

A very enjoyable route on the wild high plateau of southern Vercors. Solitude is guaranteed, except for ibex, marmots and vultures. There are no marked trails on this hike, only a few topographical landmarks to help you navigate the nearly 16 km. However, orientation is easy, as the view is generally very clear. This hike is excellent practice for off-trail hiking. See the practical information for some orientation tips.

A circular hike passing two viewpoints and numerous lakes, all set against the spectacular panorama of the Écrins and the Cerces. Three-quarters of the hike is off-trail, and even in the height of summer it is very rare to come across other walkers.At an altitude of over 3,000 metres, the Rocher de la Grande Tempête offers a splendid view of Mont Thabor and the Vallée Étroite. The Pic du Lac Blanc, meanwhile, provides views of Mont Blanc and the Aiguille Rouge.

This is a very wild hike, half of which takes place in valleys completely off the beaten track, exploring the playground of the chamois, mouflons and ibex that abound in Belledonne. The lakes of Bâton and Bœuf, nestled in the rounded rocks opposite the peaks of Oisans, are the highlights of the hike.

A circular loop exploring the Griffes de l’Ours and emerging onto the Belles Ombres ridge after a short stretch along the eponymous ‘sangle’. The Griffes de l’Ours are usually tackled by returning via the same path as the outward journey. Our route allows you to climb up onto the ridge via a few rocky sections, enabling you to admire the Griffes de l’Ours from every angle.