Chalp Valley

Park near the village fountain.

(S/E) With your back to the D117, Route de Prés-Clos, walk up the street that runs between the chapel and the fountain.
At the junction, turn right and follow the road up to the houses at the top of the village. The path starts just to the left of the house on the far left. A sign reads: 3.2 km, 3 hours 20 mins, Vallon de la Chalp.
Follow the fairly steep path up a north-facing slope until you reach the banks of the Ruisseau des Roberts, where there is a sign for the Roberts Waterfall (15 mins).

(1) Continue along the path which leads into a wood. Beautiful views over the valley and its villages.

(2) The path turns north, then continues north-east. It is not signposted, but is clearly visible. There are a few sections through fairly dense vegetation (grass, stinging nettles, etc.). On emerging from the forest, you’ll see the valley above you.

(3) Carry on and cross the stream. The path crosses the rocky ridge on the left. It is less clearly marked, but there are a few cairns. You will reach the sign: Vallon de la Chalp 2020.

(4) You can head up into the valley beneath the Pics de Valsenestre and the Pics de la Chalp (off the path).

The return journey, downhill, follows the same route in the opposite direction, back to the village fountain (S/E).

The walk takes place within the Ecrins National Park; please observe the park’s rules.

Beautiful views over the valley, then over the neighbouring peaks.
Chamois and marmots (though sightings are not guaranteed).