St-Dalmas-le-Selvage to Refuge de Gialorgues

(S/E) Take the dirt track out of St-Dalmas-le-Selvage which follows the Torrent de Gialorgues south west. The track is quite bumpy and rough so you might prefer to park in the village. Otherwise find a safe place to park along the track. Follow the track which skirts alongside the river. The path heads uphill quite steeply in some sections.

(1) Continue until you reach a parking area. You then take a path on your right which winds up through beautiful woodland and meadows. The path joins a rocky stream and eventually the valley opens up into a wide meadow.

(2) Follow the path through the meadow. There are several large cairns to show you the way. The path rises gently until you reach a plateau where the Refuge de Gialorgues is situated.

(3) Return via the same route.

Sturdy walking boots and hiking poles will be most useful. Take plenty of water - the road up is long and dusty and hot. This walk is within the Mercantour National Park - pay attention to the signs on what you can and cannot do.

Look out for wildlife all along the walk - butterflies and birds abound. Don't forget to look up and see the Fort Carre - an amazing rocky outcrop which looks like a huge rectangular fort.