L'Échalp - Vallanta Refuge

(S) From the hamlet of L’Échalp, head south, pass the car park and then take the track on the right to cross the bridge over the Guil.

(1) Head left to follow the path running alongside the Guil.

(2) Ignore the path on the right that forms part of the GR®58 and the GRP® Tour du Pain de Sucre to stay as close as possible to the stream. Pass the Roche Écroulée and reach a junction after a small dirt car park.

(3) Keep to the right to continue towards the Petit Belvédère du Viso and reach it.

(4) After enjoying the view, continue along the wide path beside the Guil to the first hairpin bend.

(5) Follow the path on the right, which rejoins the wide track you have been following, then runs parallel to it below and leads to the Belvédère du Viso.

(6) The path ends, and two trails continue from there. Follow the one on the left, which winds its way up to the junction with the GRP® Tour du Pain de Sucre.

GRP® yellow and red markings

(7) Continue to the right on the GRP® and head for the Refuge du Viso.

(8) Continue in the same direction.

(9) Cross the Guil and continue to Lac Lestio.

(10) Leave the lake on your left and begin the steep climb leading to the Col de Valante on the Italian border.

(11) Start the steep descent. At the fork about 200 m further on, leave the GRP® by turning left towards the Vallanta (Valente) Refuge and reach it at the edge of Lake Bealera Funsa (E).

It is possible to reach the starting point by public transport.

Ristolas-Mont-Viso Nature Reserve