Colles Planes via the Cians ledges

The starting point is on the D28 road between the Var valley and the village of Beuil , near the ruins of l’Ablé and marker 71. There are several parking spaces on the hard shoulder.

(S/E) From the road, cross the Cians via a small wooden bridge just below the ruins of the Ablé mill: marker 71. The path then runs along a ledge heading south, rising very gradually, and soon reaches the ruined barns at Les Traverses after fording a few small streams.

(1) Continue southwards and fords two more streams.

(2) From this point, the path is less visible: follow the cairns and the yellow markings. Continue to the place known as Le Challas (alt. 1558 m), which forms a sort of small pass on a grassy plateau. The view opens out to the south and east.

(3) From the ruined hut, head south as the path leads to easily reach the summit of Les Colles Planes. Take the path on the right to walk round the west side via natural terraces, to enjoy the view over the Gorges du Cians.

(4) Continue southwards to reach another small, unnamed summit (alt. 1,623 m) overlooking the Barre de Rochas.

(5) After admiring the 360° panorama, head back , keeping Colles Planes in sight, without taking the detour, then on to Le Challas.

(3) Follow the same path as on the way there, but in the opposite direction, to return to the car park (S/E).

In early June, numerous streams were flowing towards the hamlet of Les Traverses, providing a chance to cool off and top up your water supplies on the way back.

Take care in foggy conditions, particularly between points (2) and (3), as well as at Les Colles Planes and the unnamed summit (5), which are very close to vertiginous rocky outcrops.

The Small and Large Cians Gorges by the D28 road.