Lac des Cornaches circular route via the Col de la Tourche Vernay

Head to Cevins and take the road near the church that climbs up to Bénétant. Near Bénétant, take the track on the right, following signs for Lacs des Tempêtes, and park about 100 m further up, at the first track branching off to the right.

(S/E) Follow the track, which very quickly turns south, then south-west, climbing steadily whilst ignoring the tracks on the left. Cross the Torrent du Grand Nant and the Merderet stream, then continue for about a hundred metres to reach the start of a path on the left.

(1) Follow this path, which crosses two tracks and, after a steep climb, reaches a crossroads.

(2) Turn left onto the ascending path. Wind your way up through numerous bends to reach the Lac des Cornaches.

(3) Carry on straight ahead (north-east) towards the Cabane des Cornaches.

(4) Return to the previous junction.

(3) Carry on to the left, heading south-west along the ascending path.

(5) Shortly afterwards, turn left and head east towards the Col de la Tourche Vernay. The climb is steep.

(6) Turn left and continue north-east along a path running along the ridge. This will take you to the Col de la Tourche Vernay (signpost).

(7) Turn right and, after a short descent, you’ll reach a Fork in the road (signpost: ‘Sous le Col’).

(8) Follow the path on the right, heading north-east and uphill. You’ll reach the highest vantage point (unnamed peak; panoramic view).

(9) Return to the previous junction.

(8) Follow the path down to the right to reach the Priolet crossroads.

(10) Turn left onto the path leading down towards Bènètant. After a long descent and numerous hairpin bends, you’ll reach a track at a signpost.

(11) Follow it to the left for a few hundred metres to reach the car park (S/E).

Lac des Cornaches hut.
No drinking water along the route.
Please note: steep gradient for such a short walk.