Trekking in the French Alps : from Mont Blanc to Vanoise

1h00 walking / Elevation gain: +250 m - 2 km from Les Contamines to Nant Borrant (in July/August, a free shuttle is available to Notre-Dame de la Gorge).

HIKING TIME : 5h- 5h30

ASCENT : 700 m

DESCENT : 1,300 m

ACCOMMODATION : mountain refuge

LUGGAGE TRANSFER : luggage transfer (if you have selected this option)

The day begins with an ascent along the ancient Roman road, a historic path leading to the famous Col du Bonhomme, a key landmark on the Tour du Mont Blanc. This iconic mountain pass offers breathtaking views over the surrounding peaks and valleys stretching into the horizon.

You then traverse the Crête des Gittes, a spectacular ridge path - exposed but well-secured - that rewards you with sweeping vistas of glaciers, jagged summits, and lush valleys below.

Continuing on, the trail descends into the vast alpine pastures of the Beaufortain, where endless green meadows create an idyllic mountain setting. Your stage ends at the Cormet de Roselend, an exceptional natural site surrounded by majestic peaks and overlooking a crystal-clear alpine lake.

HIKING TIME : 6h30- 7h

ASCENT : 1,450 m

DESCENT : 800 m

ACCOMMODATION : guesthouse

LUGGAGE TRANSFER : luggage transfer (if you have selected this option)

Today’s stage follows a balcony path overlooking the stunning Roselend Lake. This panoramic trail offers sweeping views of its turquoise waters, framed by towering alpine peaks.

The climb then takes you to the Col du Bresson, at the foot of the legendary Pierra Menta - a mythical summit renowned among mountaineers. The sheer grandeur of the landscape and the majesty of this iconic peak accompany you throughout the ascent.

Your descent leads through the Vallon de l’Ormette and across charming alpine pastures, where small canals and traditional hamlets dot the scenery, before reaching the Tarentaise Valley, a true haven of greenery.

From the chapel of Saint-Guérin, a short transfer brings you to Peisey Nancroix and the Rosuel gateway, marking the entrance to Vanoise National Park.
Overnight stay in a mountain refuge, shared dormitory.

HIKING TIME : 6h30- 7h

ASCENT : 950 m

DESCENT : 1,200 m

ACCOMMODATION : mountain refuge

LUGGAGE TRANSFER : luggage transfer (if you have selected this option)

Today, you enter Vanoise National Park. This wild, little-visited area invites you to explore pristine landscapes, where the vastness of the mountains blends with the purity of the alpine valleys.

The trail winds its way through timeless scenery, gradually leading you to the Lac de la Plagne, a shimmering mirror of crystal-clear water. The final stretch of the hike brings you to the Col du Palet, perched at 2,652 meters. This pass marks the boundary of Vanoise National Park.

From here, the descent begins, guiding you to Tignes-Val Claret, a lively mountain resort renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and breathtaking views.

HIKING TIME : 5h30- 6h

ASCENT : 1,150 m

DESCENT : 550 m

ACCOMMODATION : hotel

LUGGAGE TRANSFER : no luggage transfer

From Tignes, you leave behind the lively atmosphere of the resort to return to the vast wilderness of Vanoise National Park. The hike begins with a climb to the Col de la Leisse, leading you through a spectacular valley where the trail winds between alpine meadows and high-altitude lakes. The crystal-clear waters of the Lac de la Leisse, lying below, bring a sense of serenity to the landscape. Along the way, the imposing south face of the Grande Casse, rising more than 1,700 meters, towers above the path.

Overnight stay in a mountain hut at the Col de la Vanoise (dormitory).

HIKING TIME : 6h30- 7h

ASCENT : 1,100 m

DESCENT : 700 m

ACCOMMODATION : mountain refuge

LUGGAGE TRANSFER : no luggage transfer

After your overnight stay at the refuge, the day begins with a spectacular balcony traverse, offering sweeping views over Pralognan. The trail winds above the Combe de l'Arcelin before leading you through the Cirque du Dard, then into the impressive Grand Marchet and Petit Marchet cirques, both set in pristine alpine scenery.

The path continues toward Lac de la Valette, before crossing the Combe des Nants, another remarkable corner of the Vanoise where silence and natural beauty create a truly enchanting atmosphere.

The descent then brings you to the peaceful Vallon des Prioux, a gentler landscape where the mountain’s quiet harmony unfolds. If this section feels too demanding, an easier alternative is possible via Pralognan. Overnight in a refuge.

Hiking time: 4h30 - 5h / Elevation gain: +300 m; -1100 m / 11 km via Pralognan

HIKING TIME : 7h- 7h30

ASCENT : 1,050 m

DESCENT : 1,850 m

ACCOMMODATION : mountain refuge

LUGGAGE TRANSFER : luggage transfer (if you have selected this option)

The day begins with a climb through the Chavière Valley, a spectacular area where the scenery feels almost otherworldly. Dominated by the majestic Dômes de la Vanoise, the valley offers truly breathtaking panoramas.

Along the way, the sharp peaks of the Péclet-Polset needles guide you toward the Col de Chavière, just a short distance ahead. At over 2,500 meters, this pass provides stunning views of the Maurienne Valley. The descent continues gently, with impressive vistas throughout, all the way to Modane.

A taxi from L’Orgère to Modane is available (mandatory and payable locally in the low season). In July and August, a shuttle departs at 4:30 p.m. to take you there.

Descent from L’Orgère to Modane: Additional elevation loss -880 m / 4.5 km / 2h30 walking.

The hike ends around 5 p.m. at Modane train station.

HIKING TIME : 6h30- 7h

ASCENT : 1,100 m

DESCENT : 900 m

LUGGAGE TRANSFER : luggage transfer (if you have selected this option)