Circular route on the Sept Laux lakes plateau

The route starts from the Martinette car park in the village of Fond de France.

(S/E) Take the road on the left as you leave the car park to cross the hamlet of the same name, then continue towards the Cascade du Pissou along a pleasant, shaded path.

(1) After enjoying the coolness of the waterfall, head back down a few dozen metres to cross the stream bed and follow the steep (and still shaded) path for 800 m until you reach the^first fork signposting the climbing site (this will be your route back).

(2) Turn left towards the Lacs des Sept Laux. The route to follow is signposted^GRP®®738(Tour du pays d’Allevard) to the foot of the Chalet du Gleyzin de la Ferrière.

(3) Take the path on the left as the forest gradually gives way to a short but relaxing grassy plateau, beyond which lies the most challenging part of the route. Tackle this rocky outcrop with confidence, following the yellow markings, visible here and there, which will lead you to another grassy plateau where you can rest and regain your strength before tackling the final (but short) stretch leading to Lac Noir.

(4) This^first lake of the day will delight you with its colour and the surrounding peaks reflected in its waters. Then follow the stony track to your left, which, rising and falling, will guide you towards the Refuge des Sept Laux, skirting the Lacs Carré and de la Motte.

(5) Walk back about 200 m and continue southwards through a very rocky landscape.

(6) Walk along the left bank of Lac Cottepens, heading towards Lac du Cos.

(7) The last lake of the day, hidden behind its spillway, which you’ll need to cross to reach the Col des Sept Laux at its far end.

(8) For the return journey, follow the same route as on the way out until you reach Lac Noir.

(4) This time, take the path that descends to your left towards Le Gleyzin. The^first section of this path is a steep descent over scree, so caution is advised. It then gives way to a more pleasant path that will take you straight to the Chalet du Gleyzin, which you could see from the start of the descent.

(9) Continue north-east to reach a junction you passed on the way up, at the foot of the chalet.

(3) Take the forest track you followed on the way up again, but in the opposite direction.

(2) Once you reach the climbing site, take the path on the left which will lead you back to the car park (S/E) about 1 km further on.

There aren’t really any water sources along the route, so make sure you bring plenty.
A stop at the Sept Laux refuge is almost a must, given how much you’ll appreciate the welcome and the views.