Lac des Chiens walks

This is the first stage of a journey that will take you across France, following the 45th parallel as closely as possible (within 10 km). To truly cross France and avoid going back and forth, the starting point is in Italy. However, it is possible to start from Pamplinet and climb up to the Col de Désertes to start from the French-Italian border.

This section corresponds to the second stage of the crossing of France, following the 45th parallel. This stage is magnificent and can be a hike in its own right. You follow the Clarée valley and discover beautiful waterfalls before climbing up to the Refuge du Chardonnet.

First stage of Circuit Franco-Italian border "Queyras in Val Pellice" punctuated by passages through three interesting passes: Malaure, Bouchet and Vampréveyre.

Between forest, mountain pastures and the banks of the Clarée, this walk takes you gently from Névache to the upper Clarée valley. It is also an opportunity to discover the hamlets and isolated chalets scattered throughout the valley. Don't forget to admire the pretty Fontcouverte waterfall on the way! Please note that if you do this hike outside the shuttle bus operating period (information available from the tourist office), you will have to walk back to the starting point along the same route!

This 7-day trek is for hikers who are used to camping in tents.Although there are a few refuges along the route, the stages are designed for those who wish to sleep in the heart of nature.The circuit crosses the Écrins massif and offers total immersion in the alpine landscape, where you can encounter local flora and fauna.Ideal for walkers who are used to the mountains, it is a complete adventure that will challenge you with its significant elevation changes and occasional technical or unmarked sections.

For this first stage, you will begin your journey at the Argentière-les-Écrins train station. The hike follows the GR®54A, taking you through the Fournel valley and the Deslioures biological reserve. You will finally arrive at a plateau that is ideal for camping. Please note: landslide in July 2025