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Valdieri walks
Tour of the Argentera
Visorando Member
36.82 mi
+14,636 ft
-14,633 ft
5 days
Difficult
Departure from Valdieri (Cuneo)
There are several ways to circumnavigate this mountain: closer to the summit or further away. But this suggested route allows you to walk around the Argentera via the lakes and the King Victor Emmanuel II trails, always with a view of the Argentera and, of course, a comforting stop at the mountain huts every evening. The stages are fairly well balanced in terms of the effort required, so let’s set off on the tour.
Lakes Nègre and Graveirette
8.14 mi
+2,431 ft
-2,405 ft
5h 50
Moderate
Departure from Saint-Martin-Vésubie (Alpes-Maritimes)
From the Vallon de Salèse car park, there are numerous hiking routes. This one takes you up the valley to the Col de Salèse and then on to two magnificent lakes: Lac Nègre and Lac de Graveirette.
Caïre Archas
6.63 mi
+3,402 ft
-3,396 ft
6h 00
Difficult
Departure from Saint-Martin-Vésubie (Alpes-Maritimes)
A challenging hike with an off-trail finish on Caire Archas, offering panoramic views of Mont Pépoiri, Cime de Frémamorte, Cime Guilié, Mont Pélago and other peaks on the border with Italy.
The Bresses lakes from the Salèse car park
10.27 mi
+3,077 ft
-3,071 ft
7h 25
Difficult
Departure from Saint-Martin-Vésubie (Alpes-Maritimes)
Off the beaten track, these two small lakes in the Mercantour are both beautiful and uncrowded. Here I suggest a circular route that will allow you to avoid descending directly to the Col de Salèse and enjoy a view of Lac Nègre that you don't get when arriving via the traditional route.
A few changes to this route, see reviews.
Lac des Adus loop
5.05 mi
+1,886 ft
-1,857 ft
4h 00
Moderate
Departure from Saint-Martin-Vésubie (Alpes-Maritimes)
This short loop takes you past Lac des Adus, then continues a little further towards Pointe des Adus and returns via theGR®52.
Mainly in the forest, it is very pleasant in hot weather, especially as you can swim in the lake.
Tête de Bresse and Cime de Fremamorte via the Vallon de Salèse
13.14 mi
+5,072 ft
-5,062 ft
10h 30
Difficult
Departure from Saint-Martin-Vésubie (Alpes-Maritimes)
This is a beautiful French-Italian circuit, partly off-trail (Visorando app or GPS recommended), which allows you to discover different landscapes: the Boréon forest, high-altitude lakes, mineral landscapes and magnificent views of the surrounding peaks.
Walk to Lake Adus
3.55 mi
+1,690 ft
-1,713 ft
3h 05
Moderate
Departure from Saint-Martin-Vésubie (Alpes-Maritimes)
This short walk, mainly through the forest, will take you to a pretty little mountain lake (2,130 m).
It's a good warm-up or an easy goal that can be done with children who are good walkers (be warned, it's still in the mountains, so... it's uphill).
Lac Nègre and Cime de Frémamorte
11.36 mi
+3,894 ft
-3,898 ft
6 hrs
Very difficult
Departure from Saint-Martin-Vésubie (Alpes-Maritimes)
A very beautiful round trip hike in Haute-Vésubie from the Salèse car park. There are numerous lakes, including the large Lac Nègre, and beautiful panoramic views at the Col de Frémamorte and the peak of the same name.
Lac Nègre - Pas du Préfouns
10.53 mi
+3,136 ft
-3,120 ft
7h 35
Moderate
Departure from Saint-Martin-Vésubie (Alpes-Maritimes)
One of the main sites in the Mercantour, Lac Nègre offers the reward of a sudden view of a rocky high mountain landscape that contrasts with the peaceful forest climb that precedes it. The Pas du Préfouns is the viewpoint of the Préfouns valley with the Aiguilles de Questa on the Italian side and the Lac Nègre cirque on the French side.
Graveirette Lake
7.88 mi
+1,982 ft
-1,985 ft
5h 20
Moderate
Departure from Saint-Martin-Vésubie (Alpes-Maritimes)
This small natural lake is little known to hikers. Surrounded by greenery, it is very pleasant and peaceful.
Boréon Circular Route
5.22 mi
+1,598 ft
-1,617 ft
3h 50
Moderate
Departure from Saint-Martin-Vésubie (Alpes-Maritimes)
A circular hike around the lower part of the Salèse valley, passing the Cavalet and Erps cattle pastures, Lac du Boréon, the waterfall and the larch forests. A short hike suitable for the height of summer, as much of the route is shaded.
(Please note): The route description is likely no longer accurate following Storm Alex, as the route was mapped out before the storm.
Le Boreon - Refuge de Nice
10.85 mi
+5,971 ft
-3,678 ft
12 hrs
Very difficult
Departure from Saint-Martin-Vésubie (Alpes-Maritimes)
The most difficult stage of thisGR®, but the most beautiful for its landscapes, flora and fauna: chamois, marmots, ibex.
After the Pas des Ladres, we chose to take theGR®52via the alternative route that passes close to the Col de Fenestre, then descends to Lac de Fenestre before reaching La Madone de Fenestre.
Three sections are particularly difficult: between Lac de Trecolpas and the Pas des Ladres, the ascent of the Pas du Colomb, and the descent from the Pas du Colomb.
Mercantour Peak
6.23 mi
+4,078 ft
-4,091 ft
5 hrs
Very difficult
Departure from Saint-Martin-Vésubie (Alpes-Maritimes)
The secondary summit of the park, to which it gives its name (by mistake, according to legend), the Cime du Mercantour is relatively accessible and offers a pleasant, uncrowded hike.
Please note: the descent to the Vallon des Erps requires caution and is only suitable for experienced walkers.
Col des Cerises, starting from Boréon
5.13 mi
+3,353 ft
-3,353 ft
5h 15
Difficult
Departure from Saint-Martin-Vésubie (Alpes-Maritimes)
A lovely summit hike, as you’ll be climbing over 1,000 metres. Initially sheltered by a forest, you’ll then move through a more alpine landscape before finishing with a pleasant climb over scree. You’ll pass by the little Lac de Cerise. On the way down, the easier going will surely allow you to spot the chamois and marmots you may have missed on the way up.
Lac du Mercantour and Col de Cerise
5.71 mi
+3,845 ft
-3,819 ft
6h 00
Difficult
Departure from Saint-Martin-Vésubie (Alpes-Maritimes)
A short but challenging hike in a wild valley in Haute-Vésubie.
Rocky landscape, a pretty lake and a beautiful view of several Italian peaks, including Monte Matto (3,088 m).
Bessons Lakes
7.06 mi
+3,232 ft
-3,235 ft
6h 05
Difficult
Departure from Saint-Martin-Vésubie (Alpes-Maritimes)
The Bessons Lakes are among the most beautiful and airy in Boréon. The striking glacial relief, with the passage of barriers defending this cirque, is truly awe-inspiring.
Lac de Trécolpas and return via the Refuge de la Cougourde
6.95 mi
+2,293 ft
-2,290 ft
5h 10
Moderate
Departure from Saint-Martin-Vésubie (Alpes-Maritimes)
This is a fine route with the beautiful Lac de Trécolpas at the foot of the Pas des Ladres.
Please note that following storm Alex, the start of the hike on the right bank is no longer possible and must therefore be made on the left bank.
From the Lacs de Terre Rouge to Lac de Tavels circular
9.87 mi
+3,652 ft
-3,645 ft
6 hrs
Very difficult
Departure from Isola (Alpes-Maritimes)
A very beautiful hike starting from Isola 2000, allowing you to discover six lakes, some of which are in Italian territory.
The hike is varied in that it follows a fairly busy route offering magnificent views, as well as a much wilder and less frequented section.
The numerous lakes and water sources along the way are an invitation to cool off.
Please note: there are some difficulties on the terrain => see § Practical information.
Pas du Loup from Isola 2000
4.96 mi
+1,978 ft
-1,982 ft
4h 00
Moderate
Departure from Isola (Alpes-Maritimes)
A viewpoint over Mont Viso (weather permitting!); in any case, a wild landscape just a few minutes from civilisation (Isola 2000 resort).
Lakes of Terre Rouge and Baisse du Druos
5.23 mi
+1,759 ft
-1,755 ft
3h 55
Moderate
Departure from Isola (Alpes-Maritimes)
An easy round trip hike that allows you to discover a wild area very close to the Isola 2000 ski resort.
During the ascent, you will pass close to the 5 Lacs de Terre Rouge lakes before arriving at the Baisse du Druos, which offers a beautiful view of the many Lacs Supérieurs de Valscura lakes.
Although this route is outside the Mercantour National Park, you may encounter some chamois.
Mount Malinvern via the Terre Rouge Lakes.
6.77 mi
+2,762 ft
-2,746 ft
5h 30
Difficult
Departure from Isola (Alpes-Maritimes)
A technical hike starting from Isola 2000 that will take you to the highest point in the area, with breathtaking views of the resort and the Italian Alps. Up to the beautiful Terre Rouge Lakes and Baisse du Druos, this route is accessible to all; things get a little more challenging once you reach Italy.
Cime de la Lombarde via Terre Rouge and Pas du Loup
6.89 mi
+2,946 ft
-2,953 ft
5h 45
Difficult
Departure from Isola (Alpes-Maritimes)
A relatively easy summit above Isola 2000, the Cime de la Lombarde offers superb views of the French and Italian Alps. The route described here is a beautiful circular loop that is relatively uncrowded, except for chamois, and offers beautiful views of the Orgials and Rio Freddo valleys.
The Lausfer lakes and the Italian border from Isola 2000
13.67 mi
+3,724 ft
-3,707 ft
10 hrs
Very difficult
Departure from Isola (Alpes-Maritimes)
Starting from the Isola 2000 resort, hike towards the Lausfer lakes and, following the French-Italian border, return via the Col de la Lombarde.
Crête de la Lausetta from the Col de la Lombarde
3.24 mi
+630 ft
-633 ft
2h 00
Easy
Departure from Isola (Alpes-Maritimes)
A short, easy walk between France and Italy.
You'll find yourself trying to guess which country you're in as you walk along the ridge.
I've never crossed the border so many times in such a short space of time...
And you can admire the view of the two valleys below.
Lacs d'Orgials, Martel and Aver
10.50 mi
+5,003 ft
-4,993 ft
7 hrs
Very difficult
Departure from Vinadio (Cuneo)
A superb circular hike, allowing you to discover no fewer than five lakes through magnificent landscapes at the foot of Mount Malinvern. It is located entirely in Italian territory, close to Isola 2000, starting from the Col de la Lombarde road on the Vinadio side.In addition to the lakes, the hike offers superb views of the peaks overlooking the Rio Freddo valley at the foot of Malinvern, which is omnipresent during the first part of the circuit.
Madone de Fenestre refuge - Pont du Countet
7.75 mi
+2,812 ft
-3,642 ft
6h 00
Difficult
Departure from Saint-Martin-Vésubie (Alpes-Maritimes)
Route linking the Vésubie and Gordolasque valleys.
Balaour Lakes
3.62 mi
+1,768 ft
-1,768 ft
3h 10
Moderate
Departure from Saint-Martin-Vésubie (Alpes-Maritimes)
This hike in the Vallon de la Madone de Fenestre will take you to the wild lakes of Balaour, a little-visited spot at the foot of the Cime du Gélas, the highest point in the Mercantour.
These lakes are fed by the famous Vésubie river, which rises some 300 metres higher up at Lac Blanc.
Summit of Gélas
7.01 mi
+4,672 ft
-4,672 ft
8 hrs
Extremely difficult
Departure from Saint-Martin-Vésubie (Alpes-Maritimes)
This route, which is closer to simple mountaineering than standard hiking, provides access to the highest peak in the Mercantour. From the summit, there is an exceptional panorama of the surrounding mountains and a view of the sea, stretching as far as Corsica on a clear day.
The proposed ascent is via the small pass Saint-Robert and the west-southwest ridge, descending via the northeast ridge and the Balcon du Gélas.
The Pas des Ladres via the Col de Fenestre
4.68 mi
+2,054 ft
-2,041 ft
3h 55
Moderate
Departure from Saint-Martin-Vésubie (Alpes-Maritimes)
A beautiful loop around the Fenestre valley with Lake Fenestre as its centre point.
Refuge de Nice - Refuge de la Madone de Fenestre
3.36 mi
+1,512 ft
-2,533 ft
2h 50
Difficult
Departure from Belvédère (Alpes-Maritimes)
This route, which runs parallel to the border, is dominated throughout by the large peak of Gélas, the highest summit in the area.
Nice Refuge - Merveilles Refuge
5.74 mi
+1,995 ft
-2,303 ft
4h 20
Difficult
Departure from Belvédère (Alpes-Maritimes)
Starting from the Refuge de Nice, the fourth stage of this journey through the Mercantour is the shortest. Short but just as difficult. You’ll pass the Baisse du Basto, the highest point ofthe GR®52. You’ll cross over to Lac du Basto, then it’s the climb up the Baisse de la Valmasque, before descending into the Vallée des Merveilles.
The Mont Clapier Lakes from the Nice refuge
2.00 mi
+1,191 ft
-1,194 ft
1h 55
Moderate
Departure from Belvédère (Alpes-Maritimes)
A short additional hike if you arrive at the Nice refuge too early. The lakes of Mont Clapier are a lovely and charming destination. As in the rest of the Mercantour, chamois and ibex are everywhere.
The lakes may still be frozen in mid-June. The path is not signposted, but is clearly visible. The same instructions appear on the map and on the suggested walks displayed at the entrance to the refuge. The elevation gain is approximately 300m.
Lacs de Prals via Baisse de Férisson and Cime de la Valette de Prals
8.15 mi
+2,625 ft
-2,595 ft
6h 00
Moderate
Departure from Saint-Martin-Vésubie (Alpes-Maritimes)
The Lacs de Prals or "Cinq Lacs" route takes you into the heart of the Mercantour, along pleasant, easy trails that are suitable for all walkers.
This route will allow you to discover the Tête de la Lave, the Cime de la Valette de Prals (2,496 m) with its panoramic view of the upper Vésubie and the great snow-capped peaks of the Oisans, before reaching the Lacs de Prals site.
The Prals Lakes loop
4.65 mi
+1,729 ft
-1,755 ft
3h 40
Moderate
Departure from Saint-Martin-Vésubie (Alpes-Maritimes)
A charming circular hike that can be done at the start of the season (June) when there is still snow. Chamois are often seen (early in the morning). The lake area is very pleasant and offers many options and views for picnics.
Cime de la Valette and Lake Prals
7.28 mi
+2,523 ft
-2,523 ft
5h 35
Difficult
Departure from Saint-Martin-Vésubie (Alpes-Maritimes)
From the summit of La Valette, there is a breathtaking view of all the peaks of the Mercantour, La Colmiane and, on a clear day, Cap d'Antibes. You will pass by the five lakes of Le Prals.
Crossing Mont Pépoiri
Association / Club / Walk leader
4.59 mi
+2,192 ft
-2,195 ft
4h 00
Moderate
Departure from Valdeblore (Alpes-Maritimes)
We offer a hike through the Valdeblore mountain pastures, including the ascent of one of the area’s major peaks, Mont Pépoiri, offering exceptional views across the entire border ridge of the Mercantour massif.Views of Corsica on a clear day.
Lacs des Millefonts - Col du Barn
4.66 mi
+1,365 ft
-1,362 ft
3h 20
Easy
Departure from Valdeblore (Alpes-Maritimes)
The Millefonts lakes hike will take you to no fewer than five lakes at the foot of the Mercantour. The Col de Barn offers breathtaking views of the Molières valley and the lakes.
Lacs des Millefonts via the Cols de Ferrière and Barn
5.26 mi
+1,975 ft
-1,972 ft
4h 10
Moderate
Departure from Valdeblore (Alpes-Maritimes)
A very beautiful hike in the Colmiane area. No difficulty on this route.
Cime des Lauses and tour of the Lacs des Millefonts
5.81 mi
+2,569 ft
-2,549 ft
4h 55
Difficult
Departure from Valdeblore (Alpes-Maritimes)
Starting from the Millefonts car park, this hike will take you via Lac Petit to Cime des Lauses, a peak offering exceptional views of the Mercantour.
After a section off the marked trail along the Têtes des Margès and Barn ridges, you will reach Col du Barn and descend to the other beautiful lakes of Millefonts: Lac Gros (slightly heart-shaped) and Lac Long (entirely colonised by aquatic plants).
Ascent of Baus de la Frema
4.46 mi
+1,982 ft
-1,988 ft
3h 45
Moderate
Departure from Valdeblore (Alpes-Maritimes)
An easy hike offering beautiful views of the Mercantour Massif and, opposite, the Madone de Fenestre valley. You can extend the hike on the mountain pasture towards the Tête du Brec (2566m).
From Valmasque to Lac des Mesches via Mont Bégo
13.66 mi
+4,006 ft
-5,118 ft
10 hrs
Very difficult
Departure from Tende (Alpes-Maritimes)
This long one-way hike (two vehicles required) will take you up the pretty Valmasque Valley and its three beautiful lakes to the pass above the Vallée des Merveilles, before climbing to the summit of Mont Bégo via a sometimes steep and slightly vertiginous path, in an area where you may encounter magnificent ibex.
Finally, there is a very long descent to the lakes around the Refuge des Merveilles, then through the Vallon de la Minière to Lac des Mesches.
Lac de l'Agnel
6.75 mi
+2,408 ft
-2,392 ft
5h 10
Moderate
Departure from Tende (Alpes-Maritimes)
Hike to one of the largest lakes in the Mercantour National Park, surrounded by ibex and chamois.
Circular of Valmasque and Fontanalbe
13.60 mi
+3,586 ft
-3,586 ft
9h 25
Difficult
Departure from Tende (Alpes-Maritimes)
This magnificent circular takes you through the Valmasque and Fontanalbe valleys, with no fewer than five lakes and picture-postcard landscapes. It is a long but gradual hike with very few difficult sections.
Cime Viglino from Castérino
10.73 mi
+4,049 ft
-4,068 ft
7 hrs
Very difficult
Departure from Tende (Alpes-Maritimes)
Cime Viglino enjoys a privileged location. At an altitude of 2,910 metres, it cannot compete with the nearby Mont Clapier (3,051 metres), which offers its most beautiful façade and an impressive view of its glacier. The view to the west is obscured by this superb neighbour, but there is still a breathtaking panorama to the north as far as Mont Viso and to the south as far as the sea. From this promontory, you can dream and meditate on the hikes to be made in the valleys below.
Le Grand Capelet
14.01 mi
+4,370 ft
-4,390 ft
8 hrs
Very difficult
Departure from Tende (Alpes-Maritimes)
Le Grand Capelet enjoys a privileged position, offering panoramic views over the Roya and Vésubie valleys.The hike is quite challenging, but once you reach your destination, you will be rewarded with a superb panorama.
Lac Vert de Fontanalba and Voie Sacrée
8.58 mi
+2,290 ft
-2,313 ft
5h 55
Moderate
Departure from Tende (Alpes-Maritimes)
This hike takes place in a very green valley, punctuated by a pretty little lake that takes on the colour of its surroundings. You can admire the pictograms of the Sacred Way (like those in the Vallée des Merveilles). The whole area is dominated by Mont Bégo.
Valmasque refuge
7.42 mi
+1,886 ft
-1,900 ft
5h 05
Moderate
Departure from Tende (Alpes-Maritimes)
A very beautiful hike, especially the part where you leave the 4x4 track and arrive at the waterfalls.
Circular: Lac de l'Agnel - small pass de la Charnassère - Lac Noir - Valmasque
10.36 mi
+3,753 ft
-3,740 ft
8h 00
Difficult
Departure from Tende (Alpes-Maritimes)
A beautiful circular hike that takes you from Lac de l'Agnel to the Lac Noir and Lac Vert de Valmasque.
Caution: tricky sections at (4) and (5).
Mont Paracouerte - Lac Sainte-Marie
6.40 mi
+2,487 ft
-2,500 ft
5h 05
Difficult
Departure from Tende (Alpes-Maritimes)
A magnificent ridge offering sweeping views over the southern Mercantour. To the north, the view stretches from the Vallon de Valmasque to the Col de Tende. You will recognise the major peaks: Cime Chamineye, Cime de la Lusière, Mont Clapier rising behind the Pas de la Fous, Cime de l’Agnel, Cime de Sabion, Pointe de Peyrefique and Roche de l’Abysse. To the south and west, you can admire Mont Bégo and Mont Sainte Marie.Before setting off, please read the practical information section
Around the village of La Bolline in Valdeblore
4.23 mi
+663 ft
-640 ft
2h 30
Easy
Departure from Valdeblore (Alpes-Maritimes)
This walk around La Bolline, a village in Valdeblore, takes you along pretty paths through wooded valleys. It takes you to the village of La Bolline, the Chapel of Sainte-Croix des Pénitents Blancs, the fountain in Place de Casetto (1857) and the Church of Saint-Jacques-le-Majeur (17th century), as well as the village of La Roche and the Chapel of the Pénitents Noirs de l'Annonciation.
More walks in Valdieri
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