From La Bérarde to Les Étages

Park in the Bérarde car park, which is situated on the banks of the Vénéon.

(S/E) Head north-west for about 150 metres, then turn left to reach the small bridge over the Vénéon.

(1) Cross the stream and head downstream to the right. The path climbs, moving slightly away from the stream bed, then descends again to the Camping de la Bérarde.

(2) Cross the campsite towards the reception, following the Vénéon.

(3) Do not cross the stream but carry on straight ahead. You will then easily reach a junction.

(4) A sign points towards the Vallon des Étages along the right bank via a path starting on the left. Ignore this and carry on towards the hamlet of Les Étages.

(5) You can cross the small bridge if you wish to stop off at Les Étages. Otherwise, head straight up to the left towards the Vallon des Étages on the left bank, unless you prefer to turn back to avoid the climb. Please note, the climb is quite steep, but the path is good.

(6) At the junction, head left to cross the stream towards the right bank. Then turn right to head back down.

(4) Turn right to follow the same path as on the way there, along the Vénéon.

(2) For a bit of a change, turn left as you leave the campsite and cross the Vénéon before La Bérarde. Join the small road leading to it, which you follow to the right. This allows you to visit the village … The car park is easy to find, at the bottom of the village (S/E).

Hiking boots and walking poles are recommended if you’re walking up the valley.
The elevation gain measured by the altimeter is greater than that calculated by the Visorando software: 430 metres.

In season, you can pick blackberries.
If you have more time, it is possible to climb further up the Vallon des Étages. This additional section has not been tested by the author.