Refuge de la Pra – Refuge Jean Collet

(S) From the terrace of the Refuge de la Pra, go round the canteen building to the left and head up behind it to join the^GR® 738. At the signpost marking a junction, turn right towards the Col de la Pra, which you’ll reach very quickly.

(1) Head down to the left towards Lac du Crozet, walk along its right-hand side to reach a junction at the edge of the dam. Please note that this section of the route is currently closed; see ‘Practical Information’ for the diversion.

(2) Turn right towards the Col du Loup and the Col de la Sitre. The path straightens out considerably and climbs up slopes that are by turns grassy and rocky (allow a good hour for the ascent). Pass close to Lac du Loup, nestled in its rocky setting. Continue the ascent to reach the Col du Loup, the highest point of the route. Here, a splendid vertical landscape awaits your admiration.

(3) Begin the descent through a rocky scree slope to reach the Col de la Sitre, which overlooks the lake of the same name.

(4) Turn right, stay on^{the GR®} and begin a long descent, which is hard on the knees and your footwear. The path is steep and long, making for a sustained descent, but presents no other particular difficulties. Reach Habert du Mousset.

(5) Continue the descent to the Vorz torrent.

(6) Cross the bridge over the Vorz torrent and, at the junction, turn left, following the^GR® 738. Climb back up to the Refuge Jean Collet, today’s destination (E).

(E) The Jean Collet mountain hut serves dinner at 6.45 pm; please plan to arrive in good time to have time to wash and check in. An unforgettable experience is guaranteed after dinner, when you can enjoy the sunset over the Grésivaudan valley. There are no showers at the refuge, but there is a washbasin (and a jug) in a private cubicle where you can wash with cold water.
This route features numerous steep sections, some of which are very rocky or slippery, and involves many ascents and descents. It is not recommended to undertake this route with young children, or without the appropriate equipment, as the weather can make walking conditions difficult.
The entire route requires mountain hiking kit. You’ll need a full set of all-weather clothing, as well as a good sense of direction and map-reading skills in case the clouds roll in (which is quite common in Belledone).
Walking poles and hiking boots are strongly recommended. You will be walking in rugged mountainous terrain. Always carry a first-aid kit and the means to alert the emergency services (whistle and/or emergency beacon, etc.).

(2) Swimming at Lac du Crozet.
(3) Spotting chamois on the cliffs above the Col du Loup.
(6) Enjoy a break by the torrent after the gruelling descent from the Col de la Sitre, and for those who aren’t too cold-sensitive, try a refreshing dip.
(E) At the mountain hut, take your time to enjoy the sunset after the traditional and hearty ‘sausage and polenta’ dinner. Unforgettable memories guaranteed.