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(S/E) The hike starts at marker 461 on the D19. The trail climbs steeply over rocks in a south-easterly direction. Follow the yellow markings, which will be present throughout the hike.
(1) At the first and only intersection before the mine, take the path that climbs to the left, heading due east. The climb is steep under a forest of white oaks for a long time and crosses numerous streams that are almost dry.
(2) The path makes a 90° turn to the right. The slope becomes steeper and you arrive at a small open ridge. Here begins a southward traverse where you will pass under a beautiful and unexpected waterfall. You are now not far from the old Eguisse mine. Continue along the winding path, which offers beautiful views of the lower Vésubie Valley (Madone de Fenestre, Brec d'Utelle) until you reach marker 459.
(3) At marker 459, take the path on the left heading north. It climbs slightly up the mountainside through heath to a track at marker 460. Take the track on the left towards Col Saint-Michel (marker 443).
(4) At the pass, continue on the path heading northwest towards Chapelle Saint-Michel and the ruins of Rocca Sparvièra. The climb is steep and exposed, but quick (10-15 mins). Superb panorama from Mont Vial to Brec d'Utelle and Mont Mounier in the distance. Once you reach the chapel, continue north-east to see the ruins of Rocca Sparvièra overlooking the Paillon de Contes valley (with Cime de Baudon and Mont Agel in the distance).
(5) Retrace your steps to marker 459.
(3) At marker 459, do not take the same path you took on the way up, but continue left on the path towards Affaia (south). This path starts with a descent to a small stream, then continues with a series of short ascents and descents, generally sloping downwards with more or less dry stream crossings... An open section offers a view of some of the Mercantour peaks if the weather is clear.
(6) At marker 458, turn right heading north. You begin a serious descent into the Vallon de l'Affaia, first on the right bank then on the left bank. Be careful, there is a steep and narrow passage with a precipice on the side: take care, especially with children! Follow this path to the D19.
(7) At marker 462, take the road on the right and cross the bridge to reach the starting point in 5 minutes on foot (S/E).
Visorando member
Moderate 
