Les Clôts – Refuge de la Soldanelle

(S) From the large car park at Les Clôts (a hamlet south-east of Villars-de-Lans), take the path that climbs to the left towards the Col Vert. Do not take the one on the right.

(1) Continue along the wide path towards the Fauge sheepfold on your right.

(2) Leave the sheepfold on your left and cross the meadow, following the signposts. A sign points towards Col Vert. Follow this path across the meadows and cross the small streams, then enter the forest by taking the path leading up towards Roybon.

(3) At the Roybon refuge, continue the climb eastwards. The Col Vert is directly ahead. Stay on this path as it climbs beneath the fir trees.

(4) Just below the pass, continue climbing towards Col Vert. Do take a moment to look back! The climb up to the pass really gets going here.

(5) The Col Vert is the highest point of this first day. Cross the pass and descend, following the path on the right. You’ll enter the ‘eastern balconies’. Continue along this path, which drops steeply for 300 m before levelling out almost completely.

(6) At the Baraque du Col Vert (1,609 m), carry on straight ahead, heading due south.

(7) Below the Ranc des Agnelons (1,530 m), take the path on the right and continue southwards.

(8) At La Pierre des Deux Heures (elevation 1,587 m), keep to the right and stay on this path.

(9) At the scree slope, stay on the path which continues to the right.

(10) At the Ruines de Clos, several paths cross here; stay on the one directly ahead – neither left nor right – towards Pré Achard.

(11) Pré Achard offers a magnificent view. The refuge is visible below on the left (10 mins’ walk).

(E) Refuge de la Soldanelle. It’s best to book in advance to secure accommodation and meals.

This walk is not recommended in winter when there is snow. Check the weather forecast before setting off to make the most of the spectacular scenery. Walking poles are strongly recommended.