The Tour des Monges

To reach the starting point, follow signs for “Esparron-la-Bâtie”. Just before the hamlet, turn left towards “Le Pont”. After 500 m, take the track branching off to the right, towards Lac d’Esparron (or Lac des Monges). After 2 km, the track splits in two. Park before the ford to start the walk.

(S/E) Cross the ford and follow the track suitable for vehicles for about 1.5 km. 

(1) At the junction of the tracks, stay on the one heading left, which is open to traffic for about 200 m.

(2) The footpath (PR®) leaves the forest track and climbs through the woods. On emerging from the woods, the footpath joins the end of the track at the car park.

(3) Cross the car park and continue along the road to Lac des Monges.

(4) At the lakeside, the PR® joins the GR®6. Follow this GR® towards the Col de Clapouse.

(5) Shortly after crossing the Ravin de Clapouse and passing the boulders on the left as you climb, leave the path and head towards the point with an altitude of 1684, without going via the Col de Clapouse. (It is also possible to continue to the pass, then turn left, heading north-north-east.)

(6) Turn left and follow the grassy ridge line which climbs north-east to the summit of La Laupie.

(7) After enjoying the view, continue north-west towards the Sommet de Clot Ginoux, following a path that remains wide and pleasant.

(8) Heading due north, make for the final summit to climb: the Oratoire.

(9) At the Sommet de l’Oratoire, leave the GR® and head down to the left along the Crête de la Colle, a very wide ridge that presents no difficulty. Please note: the markings are not obvious. The trick is to spot the signpost (alt. 1,840 m) before heading down to the left. Keep slightly to the left and look out for a large, isolated pine tree. The signpost is a little further on to its left.

(10) The path descends to the left, zigzagging through the forest until it joins a forest track.

(11) Head down to the right, following the track that runs alongside the Ravin de la Garnaysse until you reach the car park (S/E).

I recommend doing this route in autumn (late September/October) when the days are still long enough, the herds have moved on and the lake has regained its tranquillity. This is an area where you can spot mouflons, particularly in the ravines to the east of the ridge line from (6) to (9).

The Bayons turnpikes – a route sometimes used by the Monte Carlo Rally!