The Ilonse circular route via Abéliéra

Be careful not to miss the start; there is a very small road on the left of the M2205 between La Bolinette and Saint-Sauveur-sur-Tinée, marked by a Red Circle ‘no entry’ road sign. You can see the Abéliéra footbridge below. There is only space for 2–3 vehicles; if there are many of you, it is advisable to park in the La Bolinette car park, next to the restaurant, and to make your way to the start point in a single car.

(S/E) After crossing the footbridge at marker 227, take the small path on the left (the one going up to the right is private). Cross over a small stream via a wooden plank. The path is then very easy to follow to the abandoned hamlet of Abéliéra. Take the opportunity to visit – see comments under § During the hike.

(1) Continue westwards on the path that climbs gently to the right, running some distance from the left bank of the Vallon d’Abéliéra. Reach marker 228 at Blaï.

(2) Head down to the left towards Ilonse to reach the bottom of the Vallon d’Abéliéra. Listen to the torrent as you approach it, then cross the bridge of the same name (renovated in 2007).

(3) Begin the climb through the forest to the Col de la Tuilière. First pass through the Vallon de Ginesté with its small sheepfold, then cross the stream in the same valley before climbing up to the pass and a large meadow with a breathtaking view of the village of Ilonse.

(4) Continue towards the village of Ilonse. At marker 207, continue up a gentle slope to reach the village at marker 208.

Please note: this section in winter (between 5 and 7): the entire stretch of the track up to marker 226 is snow-covered; good waterproof footwear is essential.

(5) Turn right onto the wide forest track. Follow it and, via a wide left-hand bend, you’ll reach the Vallon des Chalanches stream.

(6) Here in winter, you will find yourself on a rather dangerous icy track. It is advisable to wear crampons; the section isn’t very long but the drop is vertiginous. We managed to get down by sliding on our backsides, but you must be confident before attempting this. In summer, however, there is no problem.
Cross this valley via the footbridge, then continue uphill to reach marker 226.

(7) Continue towards Algagno, cross the Vallon d’Alagno stream before reaching the hamlet of Alagno Soutran at marker 225.

(8) At this crossroads, turn right and begin a stony descent. Continue along the terraces to reach the hamlet of Blaï and the crossroads at marker 228, which you passed on the way out.

(2) Take the same path as on the way out and cross back through the hamlet of Abéliéra to the starting point (S/E).

The route is listed as over 7 hours, but we completed the circular route in 4½ hours of actual walking without pushing ourselves too hard.
Water available in Abéliéra, not far from the church (potability unknown).
(6) Crampons are strongly recommended in winter for the section beneath the mountain.

(1) The abandoned hamlet of Abéliéra: As soon as you arrive at the hamlet, you’ll spot the first ruin of the pretty hamlet of Abéliéra, abandoned at the end of^{the 19th} century following a fire. The largest house, at the start of the hamlet, still seems fairly well-maintained and used by shepherds. Around ten houses are still more or less standing, including a pretty little church and one that you can visit (the bedroom still has its window and its bed and straw mattress). There is even a fountain with a tap that works if needed – though there is no indication as to whether the water is safe to drink. Just before leaving the hamlet, you can take the small path on the left to visit one last sheepfold.
(Between 3 and 4) You can see the village of Rimplas and its Maginot Line fort at the end of the ridge, high up on the left.
(5) Ilonse: Take the opportunity to make a short detour to the church and enjoy its magnificent view over the Tinée valley.