Stage 1: Valmeinier – Refuge des Marches (2230m)
From Valmeinier 1500:
Direction Ville-Dessus, and Sentier du loup. The trail links Neuvache Valley and Bissorte Valley. On the way, you will pass areas named Chien Loup, le Loup, Méra Loup, or Lac du Loup.Duration: 7h
From Valmeinier 1800:
Direction Col des Marches. A wild and aerial trail that offers a 360 degres to Vallée de la Maurienne and Massif des Ecrins.Duration: 5h
Stage 2: Refuge des Marches – Refuge du Thabor (2465m)
By Col des Bataillères (2787m)
You will pass by multiple lakes that offer quietness and serenity: Lac des Bataillères, Lacs de Sainte Marguerite where the Cheval blanc summit is reflected.Duration: 3h15
By Col des Sarrasins (2844m)
You will be amazed by a rocky and pastoral atmosphere along the way. A detour, off trail, to Mines des Sarrasins and the ruines will make you dive into the history of the area.Duration:5h
Stage 3: Refuge du Thabor – Granges de la Vallée Etroite (1765m)
This stage allows you to reach the summit of Mont Thabor (3178 m), beautiful and prestigious lookout to Mount Cervin, Aiguilles d’Arves… The descent in the wood to Vallée Etroite offers a completely different scenery that will stimulate all your senses. Les refuges “I Ré Magi” and “Terzo Alpini ” will welcome you warmly.
Duration: 7h
Stage 4 : Granges de la Vallée Etroite – Névache (1600m)
With its italian charme, Vallée Etroite sharpens curiosity since it is still in France. From there, you will discover Vallée de la Clarée passing by Col des Thures and Lac Chavillon (2241m) where Mont Thabor and massif des Rois-Mages are reflected. Refuges, gîtes and hotels will welcome you in Névache.Duration: 5h15
Stage 5: Névache – Refuge des Drayères (2170m)
After a regenerative night in Névache village, you will be ready for the penultimate stage. You will pass by Chemin de Ronde, that was taken by Louis XIV soldiers in order to watch and protect the area from Savoyard’s and robber’s incursions.
Duration: 5h45
Stage 6: Refuge des Drayères – Valmeinier
After Hautes-Alpes, welcome back to Savoie. This stage goes through pastures and offers a sporty and stunning route via crests. From Pas des Griffes (2554m), you will get a last overview to the Mont Thabor range. Few chalets, cabanes and a ancient fortin from the 18th century (plateau de la Plagnette) witness the human presence in the area.
Duration: 8h