Col de la Balme (1825m) walks

An exceptional hike leading to the wonderful Robert Lakes starting from the Chamrousse resort. Beware of late snowfields

From Le Recoin, there are easy routes to visit the Robert Lakes. This description deviates slightly from the most commonly used trails, particularly from the Brèche Sud to reach Lac des Pourettes.

A hike to Robert Lakes in Belledonne, which requires a good sense of direction and experience of walking off-trail. At the start of the season, a slightly steep section requires the use of crampons if there is still snow.

There are several signposted routes to the Robert Lakes: either via the Brèche Nord or the Brèche Sud, but none combining these two approaches. This circular route, starting from Roche Béranger, does just that. You are free to choose the direction of the walk, as these two routes are completely different: the Brèche Nord route is longer, with steep and rugged ascents and rocks to climb over. A shorter route with less elevation gain but large scree slopes to cross via the Southern Pass. All set against a magnificent backdrop.

A hike to the Robert Lakes, a little wilder than those starting from Chamrousse Ski Resort. Between (7) and (8), the descent via the ski runs is a bit challenging; it can be replaced by a long circular loop that passes by Lac des Vallons.

This circular loop allows you to visit a number of lakes on the southern slope of Belledonne: starting from Le Recoin de Chamrousse, the route typically takes you to the Robert Lakes via the southern and northern passes, but you can also continue further up through the wild Combe de Jasse-Bralard to reach Lac David, then descend via the GR®738 alongside the Claret, Longet, Bernard, Léama, Robert and Pourettes lakes. Whilst most of the route follows marked paths, there are a few sections of fairly difficult terrain, and the cumulative elevation gain should not be underestimated, given the number of ascents and descents.

A magnificent circular route starting from the Chamrousse resort, taking you to the summits of two peaks well known to hikers in the Belledonne range. The route presents no particular technical difficulties or vertiginous sections, but the total distance and the cumulative elevation gain should satisfy even the most demanding hikers.