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Park at the Pont du Countet car park at the end of the RM171, which you take from Belvédère. Please note that it can get very busy in summer.
(S/E) From the Pont du Countet bridge, head to the entrance to the Mercantour National Park at marker 411. Cross the Gordolasque via the footbridge on the right towards the circular Boucle du Countet, and just after the bridge, turn left at marker 412.
Walk up the Gordolasque on the left bank, following a very pleasant path. This widens and becomes almost a track when you reach a large crossroads opposite several footbridges.
(1) Do not continue straight ahead on the footbridges that lead to a larger path, but climb directly to the right on a slightly steep path.
When you reach a small intersection (path leading off to the right), continue straight ahead and cross the stream that flows down from the Vallon de l'Autier (a few yellow markings will show you the way).
Then head for marker 414.
(2) Turn right and climb towards the Refuge de Nice.
You will soon reach a beautiful viewpoint overlooking the Cascade de l'Estrech waterfall. It is possible to climb down to the foot of the waterfall to dip your feet in the water (or more for the more adventurous).
Continue the ascent along a winding path with a few steps. There is a steep climb before you reach the Mur des Italiens. This area is often frequented by chamois and ibex.
Once past the wall, you will discover a new landscape and realise that you have reached what is known as the alpine zone.
Continue straight ahead until you reach the river. Cross it carefully on small planks, then on large logs and finally, take a footbridge.
(3) At the end of this footbridge, turn left onto a path that descends on the other side of the Gordolasque on the right bank.
This path is rarely used and offers a different view of the valley with the Cime du Diable watching over it on the other side.
After a good hundred metres of level walking, the path begins to descend above the Cascade de l'Estrech. There are two or three passages where you need to be careful and where you may need to use your hands.
Follow this path, which ends with a series of large bends and joins the PR® at the footbridge below the (1), which is much busier.
(4) Turn right and continue downhill on the right bank along a very busy path. About 150 m before the Pont du Countet, you will pass close to a house built under a large rock, which is the hut from the "Belle et Sébastien" series.
We have been informed that the path described above is closed. To return to the starting point, cross the Gordolasque via the footbridge to reach (1) and take the same route as at the start of the hike in the opposite direction to return to the starting point.
Continue straight ahead along this path to return to the Pont du Countet car park (S/E).
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