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Start from the Coëtet car park at an altitude of 2,059 metres north of Termignon.
(S/E) Cross the road and take the trail that leads to Lac Blanc in 45 minutes and the unmarked refuge of the same name nearby. This first part is the ultimate family walk; many hikers don't go much further and spend the day with their families around the lake.
After that, it is much less frequented.
(1) Go around Lac Blanc on the left and find the unmarked trail north of the lake that follows the Doron river, 400 metres above the riverbed: be careful though.
The trail is nevertheless well marked, running roughly parallel to the canyon. After a kilometre, it turns east to rejoin the plateau and then heads north again at a crossroads.
(2) One last climb to reach the highest point of the hike at 2,435 metres.
The Bellecombe Lakes are now close by, first the South Lake and a few minutes later the North Lake.
(3) After the lakes, continue on the trail, still heading north.
The trail now descends, giving you time to admire the peaks and glaciers on the other side of the canyon. From time to time, a marmot scurries away as you approach. This brings you to Lac aux Limnés.
(4) The trail passes along the edge of the lake and continues east towards the pretty Refuge du Plan du Lac.
Near the refuge, there are a series of orientation tables with information about the peaks and glaciers, as well as explanations about the geology and wildlife.
Why not stop on the terrace of the refuge and admire the landscape in peace?
(5) The rest of the route is straightforward: head south on theGR®5trail, which takes you to the large car park at Bellecombe in 35 minutes, but first the trail passes by the lake called Plan du Lac.
(6) From the car park, the descent continues southwards, passing through the ruins of the Chavière buildings and then close to the Sainte Marguerite chapel just before the D126 road.
(7) After crossing the road several times, the sometimes steep trail finally reaches the car park where you started (S/E).
Tourism professional
Very difficult 
Visorando Member
Difficult 
Easy 
