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Saint-Bon-Tarentaise walks
Lacs Merlet
Visorando Member
10.25 mi
+2,792 ft
-2,785 ft
7h 10
Moderate
Departure from Saint-Bon-Tarentaise (Savoie)
Starting from Pralin, the hike to the Merlet lakes takes you to a superb, peaceful site on the edge of the Vanoise National Park, dominated by the Aiguille du Fuit.
Markings are present but not everywhere.
Mont Jovet as a long loop via the Belvédère de Grande Roche
7.65 mi
+3,373 ft
-3,360 ft
6h 25
Difficult
Departure from Bozel (Savoie)
Hike on the southern slope of Mont Jovet in a fairly wide loop, passing by the Belvédère de Grande Roche. The first part is in a shaded area in the Bois de la Cour, then the Bois des Roches. The route includes a slightly exposed section on the ridge of Mont Jovet. The return journey is on the other side, along a stream where you can stop to cool off. The entire hike offers a succession of varied panoramic views between the Tarentaise and Haute-Tarentaise valleys.
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.
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 southern slope of Mont Jovet with a small circular path.
6.22 mi
+3,212 ft
-3,212 ft
5h 40
Difficult
Departure from Bozel (Savoie)
This hike on the southern slope of Mont Jovet offers beautiful views of the Vanoise and beyond.
The route is well cleared and best done early in the morning or in spring after the snow has melted, or on a beautiful autumn day.
Le Châtelard and La Croix de la Duy via La Traye
4.29 mi
+1,493 ft
-1,493 ft
3h 15
Moderate
Departure from Champagny-en-Vanoise (Savoie)
This route offers a loop around Champagny-en-Vanoise via Le Châtelard and La Duy, then descends via Les Combes d'en haut and Les Combes d'en bas, ending at La Traye. No particular difficulty.
Balcon de la Forêt du Miollet, starting from Champagny-en-Vanoise
5.25 mi
+2,005 ft
-1,978 ft
4h 10
Moderate
Departure from Champagny-en-Vanoise (Savoie)
A lovely summer walk in Champagny-en-Vanoise.
After a fairly steep climb through the Bois des Chapelets, you follow a ridge walk in the Forêt du Miollet with magnificent views of the Vanoise Massif, the Grand Bec and the Vanoise Glaciers.
The descent then takes you through the Bois des Genévriers and past the alpine chalets at Combes d’en Haut and La Traye.
Mont de la Guerre via the Champagny cable cars
10.13 mi
+3,537 ft
-3,530 ft
7h 45
Difficult
Departure from Champagny-en-Vanoise (Savoie)
The proposed route allows you to climb Mont de la Guerre from Champagny-en-Vanoise and descend via the ski area. The route passes by the Champagny cable cars for those who wish to shorten the descent (please note that they are not operational on Saturdays). There are many alternatives for the descent; I have suggested this version to create a loop. Instead of going through the Bois des Génévriers, it is possible to descend via the forest track.
La Tour du Merle via Plan Fournier from Champagny-en-Vanoise
7.33 mi
+2,753 ft
-2,730 ft
5h 45
Difficult
Departure from Champagny-en-Vanoise (Savoie)
A circular route starting and finishing at Pont des Chailles in Champagny-en-Vanoise. A fairly varied route alternating between forest sections, where blueberries line the path, and unobstructed views of the Vanoise, either over the Pralognan area (Portetta, Vanoise Glaciers) or the Champagny area (Mont de la Guerre, Pointe de la Vélière, Pointe des Chardes, etc.). The second part of the descent follows a fairly wide forest track.
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.
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.
Notre Dame de la Salette and the Feissons Cross
4.20 mi
+807 ft
-801 ft
2h 40
Easy
Departure from Feissons-sur-Salins (Savoie)
Starting from the pretty village of Feissons-sur-Salins, set off along beautiful forest paths towards the Chapel of Notre-Dame de la Salette and the Cross of Feissons and enjoy the panoramic views offered by the peaks of the Doron de Bozel valley.
An easy hike, suitable for families, snowshoeing or mountain biking.
Les Hommes Courbés
6.01 mi
+3,169 ft
-3,176 ft
5h 30
Difficult
Departure from Champagny-en-Vanoise (Savoie)
Locals call this section of the hike “Les Hommes Courbés” (The Bent Men) because of the shape of the mountain. You be the judge...
This pleasant and varied hike is particularly suitable for a hot day as two-thirds of the route is in the shade.
For information on the difficulty, see the ‘Practical Information’ section.
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.
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.
Refuge des Lacs Merlets – Refuge de la Valette
10.22 mi
+4,514 ft
-3,917 ft
8 hrs
Very difficult
Departure from Saint-Bon-Tarentaise (Savoie)
This third stage will take you from the Refuge des Lacs Merlets to the Refuge de la Valette.
This stage is undoubtedly the most challenging, with 1,400 metres of elevation gain. The ascent of the Petit Mont Blanc, a difficult descent to Les Prioux, followed by another beautiful and long climb (900m of elevation gain) to the Col de la Valette and its refuge, will make for a memorable day.
From the Lacs Merlet refuge to the Péclet-Polset refuge
9.96 mi
+3,438 ft
-3,232 ft
7h 35
Difficult
Departure from Saint-Bon-Tarentaise (Savoie)
After the long stages of the previous days, this one is more leisurely.The climb to the Col du Soufre is gradual until you reach the edge of the Gébroulaz glacier.The beauty of the Col du Soufre (the day’s highest point), with its ochre and white colours, more than makes up for the day’s efforts.
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.
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).
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.
Towards Lac du Mont Coua
12.19 mi
+3,031 ft
-3,031 ft
8h 15
Difficult
Departure from Les Allues (Savoie)
A hike in the Vanoise in search of the Lacs du Mont Coua. Mountain pastures, pastoral life, geology, torrents and glaciers add to the appeal of this outing.
Vallon du Fruit, Lac des Fées, Refuge du Saut and Lac de Tuéda in Méribel
8.63 mi
+1,578 ft
-1,558 ft
5h 20
Moderate
Departure from Les Allues (Savoie)
A family hike on trails in the Tuéda Nature Reserve on the edge of the Vanoise National Park. A route where you can see marmots running along the path, with a stop at Lac des Fées, ideal for a long break. Finally, pass by the Refuge du Saut and then Lac de Tuéda and its plateau.
The Col du Soufre offers a panoramic view of the Gébroulaz Glacier
14.26 mi
+3,852 ft
-3,832 ft
9h 55
Difficult
Departure from Les Allues (Savoie)
This hike offers a geological outing as it enters the Vanoise National Park, allowing you to get close to the magnificent Gébroulaz glacier.
The Col du Soufre offers a curious, rugged landscape of shapes and colours created by the presence of scree.
Chamois, ibex and marmots are also to be found here.
Circular route around the Grande Casse
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.
Lécheron mountain chalet
3.34 mi
+2,008 ft
-2,008 ft
3h 15
Moderate
Departure from Champagny-en-Vanoise (Savoie)
One of the first hikes to do when discovering the Champagny-le-Haut valley and a great way to pick up some cow's or goat's cheese for lunch. This hike can be extended to Froide Fontaine.
Loop on the left bank of the Doron de Champagny via La Sauvire
7.36 mi
+4,236 ft
-4,232 ft
7h 05
Difficult
Departure from Champagny-en-Vanoise (Savoie)
Alpine hike for experienced walkers on the wild left bank of the Doron de Champagny, with views of the chain of glaciers and rock faces stretching from the Grand Bec to the Grande Motte via the Grande Casse.
Pointe des Chardes
8.38 mi
+4,747 ft
-4,744 ft
8h 00
Difficult
Departure from Champagny-en-Vanoise (Savoie)
The Pointe des Chardes doesn’t seem to be very well known, yet it’s a beautiful, wild hike that isn’t too difficult, with an incredible view from the summit. We’re right in the heart of the Vanoise.
Approach Mont Jovet and the Crête des Étroits via the Pas des Brebis
6.37 mi
+2,264 ft
-2,244 ft
4h 55
Moderate
Departure from Aime (Savoie)
Heading to Mont Jovet via the Tête du Jarset then the Col du Lac and continuing along the Crête des Étroits remains a classic route in La Plagne. However, this ridge walk puts off hikers prone to vertigo due to a few steep slopes.
The suggested route avoids the difficult sections and allows everyone to admire the mountain accessible via the Pas des Brebis. The return journey offers views of the entire resort.
The length and elevation gain mean this circular route is best suited to experienced hikers.
Refuge du Bois - Pralognan
11.38 mi
+5,187 ft
-5,358 ft
9h 45
Difficult
Departure from Champagny-en-Vanoise (Savoie)
Day 4 of the circular route around the Grande Casse, from Champagny-le-Haut to Pralognan via the Tour du Merle and the Grand Bec.
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
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.
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.
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 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!
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 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.
Lac des Blanchets and Roc du Diable from Belle Plagne
3.50 mi
+1,266 ft
-1,273 ft
2h 45
Moderate
Departure from Mâcot-la-Plagne (Savoie)
This half-day hike is easy for most of the route but presents some difficulty during the (optional) ascent of the Roc du Diable. The rest of the route is mostly on paths prepared for mountain machinery, so there are no particular difficulties. There is a beautiful panoramic view from the top of the Roc du Diable (2,426 m). This hike is not signposted, so it is recommended that you use the app for certain sections.
Mont Saint-Jacques and Tête des l'Arpettes from Belle Plagne
4.16 mi
+1,450 ft
-1,470 ft
3h 10
Moderate
Departure from Mâcot-la-Plagne (Savoie)
This hike is not technically difficult and can be completed in half a day. It offers beautiful views, including two lookout points. The trails are sometimes difficult to see, so a GPS device may be useful, although the terrain is clear and the waypoints are visible from a distance at all times.You will pass through mountain pastures where cows may be present in season.
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.
Discover the Montagne de l'Arc via Lac du Carroley
4.75 mi
+1,496 ft
-1,467 ft
3h 30
Moderate
Departure from Mâcot-la-Plagne (Savoie)
This hike is a longer version of the one suggested by the La Plagne Tourist Office. You will see Les Inversens and the summit of Bellecôte as you pass by the Carroley mountain and its small lake.
You will descend to Belle Plagne via the foot of Mont Saint-Jacques (2,407 m).
Hautecour art trail (Le Breuil) - Circular Liberté
2.82 mi
+738 ft
-738 ft
1h 55
Easy
Departure from Hautecour (Savoie) (Savoie)
Walk with your nose in the air, your eyes wide open, and let yourself be surprised! You will discover original and ephemeral Land'art creations in an exceptional and relaxing setting. This easy trail has many surprises in store for you! Unusual and most pleasant for its setting, the view it offers and the tranquillity of the place, it is populated by around forty original artistic creations made of straw, wood and stones using the Land Art technique!
From the Refuge du Saut to the Refuge de l'Orgère via the Col du Soufre
10.24 mi
+3,576 ft
-4,196 ft
7h 50
Difficult
Departure from Les Allues (Savoie)
From the Refuge du Saut to the Refuge Porte de l'Orgère, the route passes close to the Gébroulaz Glacier via the Col du Soufre (2,817 m) before descending towards Lac Blanc and, via theGR®55, the Col de Chavière (2,796 m) and the Tête Noire rocks.
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.
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.
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.
Pointe de Friolin
Tourism professional
8.57 mi
+4,478 ft
-4,472 ft
7h 50
Difficult
Departure from Bellentre (Savoie)
A lovely hike that allows you to enjoy very different terrains: forest, alpine pastures, rocks. Beautiful view of the Beaufortain, especially the Pierra Menta, and allows you to approach the menacing north face of Bellecôte. As a bonus, an easy 3000-metre peak.
More walks in Saint-Bon-Tarentaise
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