Rencurel (Les Rimets) – Presles

(S) If you set off from the Rimets Lodge, you will need to head north along the road to rejoin the trail at the hamlet of Les Rimets.

Take the path that branches off to the left of the road (south-west) and follow it to the hamlet of "Rieux".

(1) Continue straight along the path to the hamlet of Les Ailes

(2). At the hamlet of Les Ailes, you have the option of following the official Tour des Coulmes route, but the path is in very poor condition due to logging operations. As things stand, it is better to take the small path that branches off in front of you when you reach the tarmac road. This path is clearly marked in yellow and green and is signposted with a “Goulandière” sign. It descends initially before winding its way up and down the mountainside.

(3) At a junction, you’ll see a sign pointing to “Goulandière” on the right. Follow this direction. Much further on, you’ll see another sign pointing in this direction.
You will eventually arrive at the Goulandière meadow and join the official Tour des Coulmes.

(4) At the junction of the paths at La Goulandière, you can leave the official trail and head left for a round trip to the Belvédère du Ranc (about 15 minutes each way); this is indicated by a sign.
Alternatively, at La Goulandière, follow the red and yellow markings again, which head straight ahead. The route is very well signposted; just pay attention and ignore all the paths to the right and left. You will arrive at the hamlet of “Charmeil”.

(5) At the junction on the road, head straight ahead towards the hamlet of “Bonnette”, taking a path to the left of the road. Follow this path; it runs alongside the road a little further on before veering away from it. Make sure you close the gates behind you and ignore the other paths.

(6) You’ll emerge at the hamlet known as “La Plaine”, in a meadow, before reaching the road. Turn right and head back to the village of Presles (E).

The route is marked in red and yellow.
Numerous signs are placed at strategic points.
In the hamlet of Les Ailes, you can take a more pleasant alternative route, marked in yellow and green.
There is a shelter in the hamlet of La Goulandière.
A lodge in Les Rimets (in the commune of Rencurel).
There is an inn in Presles.

(4) The Belvédère du Ranc is well worth a detour. View over the Bourne Gorges, above Choranche.
The Coulmes Forest, which is very beautiful.