Hiking - From the Refuge des Barmettes to the Refuge du Grand Bec: a high-level hike in the secret Vanoise
Punctuated by impromptu encounters with alpine wildlife, this short hike calls for some effort! But what a spectacle! The panoramic trail reveals a secluded corner of the Vanoise to the hiker, all the way to the Refuge du Grand Bec nestled beneath the Pointe de la Vuzelle.
For an even more alpine variation, climb up to Lac des Vaches, and reach the Col de Leschaux via the Col Rosset and the Col Noir. A route over no fewer than 3 passes offering exceptional panoramic views!
"This high-level traverse is one of my favourites, provided you enjoy wild, steep, and rocky environments. I'll leave you to the surprise of discovering Lac de Creux Noir (the variation that passes the Chalet des Gardes). In colder years, it remains hidden under the snow for a long time, but is nonetheless a favourite resting spot for ibexes". Céline Rutten, Ranger-Guide
From the Refuge des Barmettes, head north-west towards the Cirque du Creux Noir.
Once at the top of the Pralognan-la-Vanoise ski area, follow the signs for the Col de Leschaux on your left.
At the pass, continue to the right towards the Refuge du Grand Bec: it's the final descent!
For the variation, hike up to Lac des Vaches, then take the path on your left that leads you to the Chalet des Gardes du Vallonnet.
Next, take the waymarked ascent to Col Rosset, followed by Col Noir, and descend into the Cirque du Creux Noir.
If you stayed overnight at the Refuge du Col de la Vanoise, take this route by turning right onto the path above Lac des Vaches.
For an even more alpine variation, climb up to Lac des Vaches, and reach the Col de Leschaux via the Col Rosset and the Col Noir. A route over no fewer than 3 passes offering exceptional panoramic views!
"This high-level traverse is one of my favourites, provided you enjoy wild, steep, and rocky environments. I'll leave you to the surprise of discovering Lac de Creux Noir (the variation that passes the Chalet des Gardes). In colder years, it remains hidden under the snow for a long time, but is nonetheless a favourite resting spot for ibexes". Céline Rutten, Ranger-Guide
From the Refuge des Barmettes, head north-west towards the Cirque du Creux Noir.
Once at the top of the Pralognan-la-Vanoise ski area, follow the signs for the Col de Leschaux on your left.
At the pass, continue to the right towards the Refuge du Grand Bec: it's the final descent!
For the variation, hike up to Lac des Vaches, then take the path on your left that leads you to the Chalet des Gardes du Vallonnet.
Next, take the waymarked ascent to Col Rosset, followed by Col Noir, and descend into the Cirque du Creux Noir.
If you stayed overnight at the Refuge du Col de la Vanoise, take this route by turning right onto the path above Lac des Vaches.