Tour of the Montagne d’Ambel

The walk starts from the hamlet of Rouisse, near Saint-Julien-en-Quint (not far from Die). It’s an easy way to reach the Plateau d’Ambel; simply follow a wide track to the Pas de Rouisse.

(S/E) The start of the track is clearly visible and signposted (sign). So you head up this track, which should be passable by vehicle once the snow has melted, and you emerge onto the plateau at the Pas de Rouisse (sign and cattle gate).

(1) Turn left (south-west) towards the Tête de la Dame, the highest point in the area.

(2) Continue by more or less following the ridge line (leave a bit of a margin!) towards the Roc de Touleau; shortly after a sort of wagon used as a shelter, you’ll reach the Col de Touleau (signpost).

(3) Head straight up the slope to the right to reach the Cabane d’Ambel (open, with a spring right next to it).

(4) Carry on straight ahead, descending the meadow (east) to reach the woodland and a wide track (the^GR®). Follow this track uphill and, when you emerge onto the meadow, head up following the edge of the woodland.
The upper section is very distinctive as it runs in a straight line.

(5) You’ll cross a first track (signposted) which, if you follow it to the left for a round trip, takes you to the Cabane de Tubanet, about 500 metres away.

(6) Return to the junction

(5) Turn right (roughly south) to follow the valley path, which will take you back to the Pas de Rouisse (the cattle gate is visible from a distance).

(1) All that remains is to head down the track to return to the car park (S/E).

A GPS will be very useful in the event of fog, which is quite common on the plateau.
The Tubanet Hut is open, but there does not appear to be a spring nearby (though with the snow, that doesn’t matter!).
The Cabane d’Ambel is open and there’s a spring almost on the doorstep
In winter it’s quiet, but in summer it’s often full as it’s close to a road (the Gardiole).
At the railway carriage near the Col de Touleau (Pas Gouillat), a path descends on the left-hand side towards the Col de la Bataille and the hamlet of Les Boutons; this passage, which is dangerous in winter, is closed due to the risk of avalanches.
Of course, this walk can also be done on foot once the snow has melted.