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(S) From the Refuge de la Thuile, take the (steep) path behind the dormitory and begin the long climb up an uneven but steep path. Reach Lac de Fontaine.
(1) Continue straight ahead until you reach the Crête de la Thuile.
(2) Take the ridge path to the right, heading south, which winds its way until it reaches a junction signposted for the Chalet de la Bourne.
(3) Turn left onto a very long descent along a well-marked path to the Chalet de la Bourne.
(4) Continue straight ahead into the only small valley, which is, however, completely covered in tracks left by herds, until you reach the Cave de la Gittaz.
(5) Take the forest track, head downhill and, after a few hairpin bends, reach the high-voltage power lines.
(6) Head down to the right, towards the stream below, down a steep slope (zigzag your way down for less than 10 mins) and emerge at the stream (it is easy to cross in August). Head diagonally up to the right, towards the south-west, to rejoin the path.
Note: this route saves 45 minutes’ walk compared to taking the forest track.
(7) Turn right, pass through the Abondance cattle pastures, then begin an ascent through the woodland along a very even, gentle, narrow and cool path. It is a very pleasant climb that takes you not far from the Chalet de la Biolle.
(8) Continue the ascent and you’ll soon reach the Col de Basmont, near the pylons, with views of the Val d’Arc and Belledonne on one side and the Mont Blanc massif on the other.
(9) Take the path leading uphill to the left, then follow a balcony-like trail, with a series of short ascents and descents, to reach the Col d’Arc and its unmanned hut (E), today’s stop.
Visorando Member
Moderate 
Difficult 
Easy 
