Nice Refuge - Merveilles Refuge

(S) From the Refuge de Nice, head east and rejoin the^GR®52(red and white markings) towards the Refuge des Merveilles. Climb up and then descend into a small valley. Cross a stream via a footbridge and climb back up.

(1) Cross a ford. The slope steepens again towards the Baisse du Basto. A difficult climb, where the slope rises rapidly with a steep gradient. Before reaching the Baisse, you’ll pass numerous lakes, some of which are dry.

(2) Pass the Baisse du Basto and descend towards Lac du Basto (south-east). Walk past the lake (snowfields possible).

(3) At the bottom, at a junction (Lac du Basto on the left), take the^GR® which climbs steeply to the right (south) towards the Baisse de Valmasque.

(4) At the Baisse de Valmasque, head down towards the Vallée des Merveilles. Difficult descent. Please note that crossing this valley is strictly regulated. In particular, if you are using walking poles, rubber tips are compulsory. Pass by several lakes, including Lac des Merveilles.

(5) Here are the instructions from the crossing point.

(6) As you leave the valley, turn left (east) and head for the southern shore of Lac Long Supérieur, where the Refuge des Merveilles is located (E).

Although this stage is only a few kilometres long, the route remains challenging due to the ascents of the two passes.
There are no water sources, apart from the snowfields and lakes.
Wildlife is abundant, including ibex, marmots and chamois.
Please read the regulatory signs carefully when crossing the Vallée des Merveilles.
As with the other stages, don’t skimp on water.
Don’t forget your camera.
Guided tours of the rock art in the Vallée des Merveilles at the refuge are available.
An IGN map and the Vallée des Merveilles guidebook are essential.
Please note that the refuges in Nice and Les Merveilles do not accept your rubbish.

In August 2017, we spotted numerous chamois and marmots during the climb to the Baisse du Basto, as well as ibex on the descent to Lac du Basto.

In the Vallée des Merveilles, between (4) and (E), there are numerous rock carvings dating from the Bronze Age. From the Refuge des Merveilles, you can take a guided tour of the site.