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Pralognan-la-Vanoise walks
Circular route around the Grande Casse
Visorando Member
39.92 mi
+13,061 ft
-13,045 ft
4 days
Difficult
Departure from Pralognan-la-Vanoise (Savoie)
Four-day hike around the Grande Casse in the Vanoise National Park, starting from Pralognan. Highlights: crossing the rocks of Lac des Vaches, views of the Grande Casse and the Leisse Valley, all in an idyllic setting and in the company of marmots.
Pralognan - Leisse Refuge
11.34 mi
+4,908 ft
-1,391 ft
9h 30
Difficult
Departure from Pralognan-la-Vanoise (Savoie)
Day1 of the Grande Casse circular route, from Pralognan to the Refuge de la Leisse, passing close to the impressive Grande Casse, all in a wild setting dotted with lakes.
Roc de la Pêche refuge
10.75 mi
+1,877 ft
-1,877 ft
6 hrs
Difficult
Departure from Pralognan-la-Vanoise (Savoie)
This is a long and very beautiful snowshoe hike with superb scenery and the chance to see chamois.
Le Napremont
6.34 mi
+2,526 ft
-2,539 ft
5h 05
Moderate
Departure from Pralognan-la-Vanoise (Savoie)
This circular route offers beautiful views and 360° panoramas of the surrounding area and peaks. In terms of difficulty: there is a difference in altitude in the undergrowth; there is a passage through a chimney, but this has been made easier by the installation of steps and a handrail.
A trail with beautiful flora dominated by the Dents de Portetta and the Aiguille d'Août.
A pleasant descent in the sunshine before returning to the undergrowth. A very beautiful route, even in hot weather.
Rocher de Villeneuve via La Montagne
6.94 mi
+2,851 ft
-2,822 ft
5h 40
Moderate
Departure from Pralognan-la-Vanoise (Savoie)
This hike takes you through the beautiful mountain pastures of La Montagne and Le Golet to Rocher de Villeneuve, where you can enjoy a 360° view of the Aiguilles de Portetta, the ridges of Mont Charvet, Col de Leschaux and even Courchevel 1850.
Napremont
4.63 mi
+2,523 ft
-2,520 ft
4h 20
Difficult
Departure from Pralognan-la-Vanoise (Savoie)
Beautiful promontory facing Pralognan, with stunning views of the entire area, including the Portetta breach and the Aiguille d'Août, which dominate the route. Unfortunately, this is now a round trip since the path (still shown on the map) through the Bois de Chollière is closed. (2008, order renewed every year since then, given the danger).
The ridges of Mont Charvet via the Col de la Grande Pierre
8.10 mi
+3,320 ft
-3,320 ft
6h 35
Difficult
Departure from Pralognan-la-Vanoise (Savoie)
Another classic route from Pralognan with the very distinctive ridges of Mont Charvet. Magnificent views both towards Pralognan and its glacial domes and towards Courchevel. The path is exposed, sometimes narrow, and should not be used in wet weather. Schist peaks and dissolution cones dot this long ridge trail. Easy return via the mountain pastures.
Lac de la Patinoire
6.07 mi
+2,625 ft
-2,625 ft
5h 05
Difficult
Departure from Pralognan-la-Vanoise (Savoie)
A very pleasant hike with a vast panorama from the Rosset Pass opening onto the Grande Casse and the Vanoise glaciers. The final point of the climb is the lake and its feeding glacier, which you will discover in the last few steps.
See § practical information
Refuge de la Vallette via the Pas de l’Âne
5.80 mi
+3,789 ft
-2,989 ft
6h 00
Difficult
Departure from Pralognan-la-Vanoise (Savoie)
A challenging hike that passes through the Cirque du Petit Marchet, crosses the Roc du Tambour to reach the Refuge de la Vallette and ends at the hamlet of Le Prioux.
Tip: only undertake this hike when there is no snow and in dry weather.
The Col de Leschaux circular route
5.42 mi
+2,113 ft
-3,996 ft
4h 20
Moderate
Departure from Pralognan-la-Vanoise (Savoie)
An exposed hike requiring caution, offering a stunning view over the entire southern sector of Pralognan-la-Vanoise.
Lac des Assiettes, Lac des Vaches, Lac Long and Lac de la Patinoire
9.39 mi
+3,888 ft
-3,888 ft
7h 40
Difficult
Departure from Pralognan-la-Vanoise (Savoie)
Several descriptions on Visorando already pass through the Col de la Vanoise. This one offers an itinerary that strays from the beaten track, seeking out wild and little-used passages.
Whether on well-trodden paths or not, the scenery is spectacular throughout.
The Moriond loop from Pralognan-la-Vanoise
4.91 mi
+2,110 ft
-2,110 ft
4h 05
Moderate
Departure from Pralognan-la-Vanoise (Savoie)
Le Moriond is a small peak located on the Aiguille de la Vanoise ridge. This summit is an easily accessible viewpoint from Pralognan, offering views of the Aiguille de la Vanoise and the Grande Casse. Marmots are never far away.
Etymology of Moriond: round mountain. Seen from Pralognan, this name is entirely justified!
The Col de la Vanoise via the Arcellin
8.93 mi
+3,012 ft
-3,012 ft
6h 45
Difficult
Departure from Pralognan-la-Vanoise (Savoie)
This is a classic route in Pralognan, which takes theGR®55"motorway" on the way back. On the way there, the climb through the Cirque de l'Arcelin and Lac des Assiettes is truly superb and fairly uncrowded.
The Col de la Vanoise
Association / Club / Walk leader
7.34 mi
+2,828 ft
-2,828 ft
5h 50
Difficult
Departure from Pralognan-la-Vanoise (Savoie)
Located in the heart of the Vanoise massif, this route is a good introduction to France's first national park and goes around the Aiguille de la Vanoise. In early summer (June), you'll easily spot ibex, marmots and maybe even chamois.
It is best to park at the Fontanettes car park above Pralognan-la-Vanoise, but you can also start from Pralognan.
Moderator's addition on 04/08/2021: Please note! For safety reasons, it is strongly recommended that you do this route in the opposite direction to the one suggested here. See the reviews at the bottom of this page.
The 3-Pass Circular: Leschaux, Rosset and Vanoise, starting from Pralognan
13.37 mi
+5,676 ft
-5,699 ft
11h 05
Very difficult
Departure from Pralognan-la-Vanoise (Savoie)
A superb route with a particularly varied character.
A high-mountain atmosphere, depending on the areas you pass through.
Lush and green, with flora unique in Europe.
Wildlife is ever-present, with marmots, chamois and ibex to be spotted with a keen eye.
Its mountain lakes: the iconic Lac des Vaches, Lac de la Patinoire and Lac du Long.
Spectacular views of the surrounding peaks: the Grande Casse, to name but one.
Beautiful panoramic views of the valley and the various surrounding glaciers.
Col de Leschaux - Grand Bec refuge - Vuzelle waterfall circular
10.03 mi
+5,482 ft
-5,453 ft
9h 25
Difficult
Departure from Pralognan-la-Vanoise (Savoie)
A beautiful circular to do from Pralognan-la-Vanoise. The route is suitable for experienced hikers. The climb to the Col de Leschaux offers a magnificent view of the Mont-Charvet ridges and the Dents de la Portetta. The Grand Bec cirque is wild and the return trip allows you to admire the Vuzelle waterfall.
Le Rocher de Villeneuve - La Montagne
5.48 mi
+3,051 ft
-3,048 ft
5h 10
Moderate
Departure from Pralognan-la-Vanoise (Savoie)
Although located on the edge of the Vanoise National Park, the Rocher de Villeneuve is a little-visited peak that nevertheless offers a stunning view of the Vanoise glaciers.
There are few markings, but there are directional signs at strategic points.
Le Petit Mont Blanc via the southern slope
6.88 mi
+3,566 ft
-3,566 ft
6h 15
Difficult
Departure from Pralognan-la-Vanoise (Savoie)
A substantial but steady climb for a magnificent panorama.
Valette Refuge - Col de la Vanoise Refuge
7.67 mi
+3,901 ft
-4,154 ft
6h 55
Difficult
Departure from Pralognan-la-Vanoise (Savoie)
The 4th stage of this route, which will take you from the Valette refuge to the Col de la Vanoise refuge. One of the most challenging stages, featuring the ascent of the Col du Grand Marchet and its highly technical descent.
A balcony-like route above Pralognan, the Petit Marchet, the Grand Marchet cirque, and the pass of the same name, leading to the Lac des Vaches and its ford, with the Grande Casse and the Col de La Vanoise refuge in the background. A technical stage, but one of the most beautiful.
La Valette Refuge
6.12 mi
+2,979 ft
-2,969 ft
5h 25
Moderate
Departure from Pralognan-la-Vanoise (Savoie)
In the heart of the Vanoise National Park, discover the Refuge de la Valette, perched at an altitude of 2,585 m. An essential stop on multi-day hikes or simply a little corner of paradise for a well-deserved break at the foot of the Vanoise glaciers. Make the most of your hike to explore the old refuge and the nearby lake. The slope’s exposure encourages updrafts, ideal for birds of prey (golden eagles, bearded vultures, etc.) to soar – a truly spectacular sight!
The Chalet des Nants and the balcony trail
5.85 mi
+1,886 ft
-1,857 ft
4h 20
Moderate
Departure from Pralognan-la-Vanoise (Savoie)
An easy walk in the Vanoise that is suitable for children or as a warm-up walk at the start of your stay. The circuit allows you to discover the Cirque des Nants and the Chavière valley from the balcony trail. There is a small lake on this trail that is a nice place to stop for the children.
Lac de la Valette
6.66 mi
+3,606 ft
-3,589 ft
6h 10
Difficult
Departure from Pralognan-la-Vanoise (Savoie)
A hike beneath the Vanoise Glaciers towards the lovely Lac de la Valette, with the Grande Casse as a backdrop. The ascent follows an excellent path and includes a section off the beaten track, with magnificent views throughout.
Le Petit Mont Blanc via the Sentier des cent virages
7.61 mi
+3,425 ft
-3,425 ft
6h 30
Difficult
Departure from Pralognan-la-Vanoise (Savoie)
A must-do hike in the commune of Pralognan-la-Vanoise. Bucolic setting, magnificent views. Grande Casse and Mont Blanc, among others.
Le Pommier Blanc crossing
5.88 mi
+2,628 ft
-2,605 ft
5h 00
Difficult
Departure from Pralognan-la-Vanoise (Savoie)
This summit is the end of a ridge descending from the Vanoise glaciers and allows you to immerse yourself on this slope of the right bank of the Torrent de Chavière overlooking the Prioux, without too much elevation gain or real technical difficulty, but at the cost of part of the route being off-trail.
Saut and Péclet-Polset mountain huts from Les Prioux - Chavière Valley
16.18 mi
+5,794 ft
-5,794 ft
More than 12 hrs
Very difficult
Departure from Pralognan-la-Vanoise (Savoie)
Two beautiful glacial valleys, two passes, two refuges, a lake... and views of glaciers and peaks rising to over 3,000 metres. The Alps as we love them, with vast panoramas and well-marked trails that allow you to rack up kilometres and elevation gain for a variety of views. Magnificent panoramas are guaranteed and, with a little luck, marmots and ibex will be there to greet you.
La Dent du Villard from Courchevel
5.32 mi
+2,569 ft
-2,579 ft
4h 40
Difficult
Departure from Saint-Bon-Tarentaise (Savoie)
To the east of Courchevel, 1550m above Lac de la Rosière, the Dent du Villard is a white gypsum mountain perforated with multiple dissolution craters on its summit, making for an impressive crossing.
The Grand Bec Refuge, and a little more
4.00 mi
+2,411 ft
-2,382 ft
3h 55
Moderate
Departure from Planay (Savoie) (Savoie)
A beautiful hike that will make you want to come back for several days.
Dents de la Portetta via the ridges of Mont Charvet
8.11 mi
+4,304 ft
-4,301 ft
8 hrs
Very difficult
Departure from Saint-Bon-Tarentaise (Savoie)
A very beautiful circular route in the Courchevel area, without being hindered by the pylons...
The route is unique and quite wild; I didn’t come across a single person that day... just the cows from the mountain pastures who came to visit me during my break, and further up, a herd of chamois that I’d clearly disturbed.
A quiet spot, except for the immediate vicinity of the car park and Lac de Rosière, and very charming.
Lakes of Mont Coua via Col Rouge and Col du Soufre
14.02 mi
+5,636 ft
-5,623 ft
11h 20
Very difficult
Departure from Pralognan-la-Vanoise (Savoie)
This hike takes you to the Lacs du Mont Coua and Lac Blanc, passing through the Col Rouge and Col du Soufre. Please note that at the start of the season there may still be a lot of snow, and some sections may be tricky.
The Pointe Ariande tour
8.38 mi
+2,825 ft
-2,825 ft
6h 20
Moderate
Departure from Pralognan-la-Vanoise (Savoie)
A walk that deviates from the balcony path, with a section off-trail, but no risk of getting lost.
The Péclet-Polset Refuge and Lac Blanc
10.83 mi
+2,631 ft
-2,628 ft
7h 15
Moderate
Departure from Pralognan-la-Vanoise (Savoie)
This hike offers a beautiful excursion into the Vanoise National Park, where you can discover a glacial lake and enjoy splendid views of several glaciers, the Dômes de la Vanoise and Peclet Polset.
Refuge du col de la Vanoise - Refuge de l'Arpont
8.64 mi
+1,145 ft
-1,837 ft
5h 00
Moderate
Departure from Pralognan-la-Vanoise (Savoie)
Stage5 of this route between the Col de la Vanoise refuge and the Arpont refuge. A stage without any major difficulty. The scenery is extraordinary, as you walk alongside the Vanoise Glacier for the entire hike. You will catch sight of the Rechasse, Roche Ferran and Arpont glaciers. You will pass at the foot of the Grande Casse and its glacier, the Pointe de la Réchasse and Mont Pelve.
Gerbroulaz Glacier (alternative route)
4.18 mi
+1,654 ft
-1,631 ft
3h 20
Moderate
Departure from Pralognan-la-Vanoise (Savoie)
Alternative route, starting from the Peclet-Polset refuge. This alternative can be taken at the end of the first stage.
It allows you to get as close as possible to the gigantic Gebroulaz Glacier, at the foot of the Aiguilles de Peclet.
Peclet-Polset Refuge - Merlets Lakes Refuge
9.26 mi
+3,114 ft
-3,314 ft
7h 00
Difficult
Departure from Pralognan-la-Vanoise (Savoie)
This second stage links the Peclet Polset Refuge to the Lacs Merlets Refuge via the Col du Soufre. You walk alongside the great Gebroulaz Glacier before reaching the Refuge du Saut. Next comes the ascent of the Col de Chanrouge and the arrival at the Lacs Merlets.
This stage takes you off the usual route through the Vanoise National Park. The landscapes are very wild. You’ll find plenty of edelweiss here.
More walks in Pralognan-la-Vanoise
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