Écrins Massif
/ Hautes-Alpes
Alpine trek around the Vieux Chaillol in the Écrins
Réf : MEYAFJ
In summary
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Sports
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Duration6 days
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LevelAdvance
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DestinationÉcrins Massif / Hautes-Alpes
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AgeFrom the age of 18
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CO₂-Emissions44.43 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages🇫🇷French
In a few words
An exceptional route in the heart of the Hautes-Alpes , where each day reveals a new facet of the Écrins massif. The Tour du Vieux Chaillol offers an authentic immersion in the contrasting landscapes of the Champsaur valley, between verdant alpine pastures , high-altitude forests, and panoramic ridges. Circling the iconic summit of Vieux Chaillol (3,163 m), this four- to five-day loop unveils a wild, mineral world bathed in light and silence. At 94 km and with nearly 5,000 m of elevation gain , this trek is for hikers seeking a sense of solitude , wide-open spaces , and local encounters . Each stage crosses unspoiled mountain villages and hidden valleys, creating a multi-day adventure rich in discoveries. An off-the-beaten-path route, where the pace of walking becomes an invitation to contemplation and wonder.
The highlights
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An ideal route for lovers of wide open spaces and challenging hikes
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Crossing through unspoiled villages and secret valleys far from the crowds
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A small group of 8 people maximum
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Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
For those wishing to undertake multi-day hikes involving over 6 hours of walking and an elevation gain of 700 to 1,200 meters, off-trail or over rugged terrain. High-altitude sections are possible. You engage in endurance sports several times a week, hike regularly, and are in excellent physical condition.
In figures
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 6h30
- Average distance/day: 15 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 715 m
- Average daily descent: 753 m
- Exposed Passages: Yes
Management
During this stay, a supervisor will be present to guide and assist you.
Band :
1 supervisor for 4 to 8 people
Languages spoken:
🇫🇷
French
Olivier
Olivier
As a 59-year-old independent guide and lifelong mountain enthusiast, I offer immersive experiences to discover the mountains in a new way. Through my outings, I aim to share a deeper understanding of the fauna, flora, and mountain environment, while teaching participants how to navigate safely and with respect for nature.
My guided walks are designed as genuine moments of sharing: local stories, observing wildlife, understanding ecosystems, and raising awareness of environmental fragility are integral parts of the experience. I guide you to the most beautiful sites I have explored for many years, primarily in the Hautes-Alpes region but also elsewhere in France.
My goal is to enable travelers to better understand the mountains and gain autonomy, based on two essential pillars:
- Safety in mountain environments,
- Respect for the environment.
- Each outing is personalized and tailored to the group's expectations. I favor a hands-on, educational approach, enriched with a fun and original dimension, far removed from overly structured presentations.
Program
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La Chapelle-en-Valgaudémar – Valgaudemar Valley
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 7h
- Distance 21 km
- Positive elevation gain 454 m
- Negative elevation 458 m
- Accommodation Cottage
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Meet at 8:00 AM in La Chapelle-en-Valgaudémar to get acquainted with the group and the guide. This first day follows the Herbeys Canal and then the Séveraisse stream , gradually ascending the valley. Along the way, breathtaking views of the Olan mountain range unfold, marking the entrance into a high mountain environment. The Valgaudemar valley , with its glacial landscapes and imposing terrain, reveals a strong Alpine character. Despite the rugged setting, life persists, sustained by the deep attachment of the inhabitants to their valley. Perhaps an opportunity for conversation along the way.
Day 1 -
From the Chapel to the Vallompierre refuge
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 7h
- Distance 14 km
- Positive elevation gain 1239 m
- Negative elevation 51 m
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
From the glacial cirque of Gioberney , the route climbs towards the Vallonpierre refuge . The atmosphere becomes more alpine and rugged, with a significant elevation gain , softened by passing through several typical Valgaudemar hamlets , with their stone houses and slate roofs. The ascent offers excellent opportunities for wildlife observation: chamois , martagon lilies , and orange lilies often accompany hikers. The stage ends in a peaceful setting, beside a high-altitude lake bordering the refuge, providing a welcome respite with views of the surrounding peaks.
Day 2 -
From the Vallompierre refuge to the Pré de la Chaumette refuge
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 7h
- Distance 11 km
- Positive elevation gain 704 m
- Negative elevation 1162 m
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
This day marks the entry into a high mountain environment , with the successive crossing of the Vallonpierre, Gouiran, and Vallette passes . As the ascent progresses, the eye is drawn to the imposing silhouette of the Sirac , the mineral guardian of the valley. The Vallette pass , the highest point of the circuit, offers a breathtaking panorama where the atmospheres of the Champsaur and Valgaudemar valleys converge. A demanding stage, punctuated by contrasting landscapes, between open ridges and secluded valleys, before descending back into the Champoléon valley .
Day 3 -
From the Pré de la Chaumette refuge to the Tourrond refuge
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 6h
- Distance 15 km
- Positive elevation gain 512 m
- Negative elevation 629 m
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
This stage joins the Drac and its gravel bed to continue towards landscapes dotted with flora and frequented by ibex.
The Drac River, occasionally overgrown with willows and birches, guides hikers to the path leading towards Tourond, where biodiversity reigns supreme. On the right bank, sandstone and limestone cliffs overlook the north-facing forest, while opposite, grasslands and heaths frequented by ibex cover, up to a certain altitude, rocks of different origins: volcanic (spilite), sedimentary (dolomite), or magmatic (granite).
Day 4 -
From the Tourrond refuge to Chaillol station
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 7h
- Distance 13 km
- Positive elevation gain 1023 m
- Negative elevation 1286 m
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Distance 3 km
- Positive elevation gain 450 m
- Negative elevation 450 m
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Today's route largely follows off-trail paths to reach the Riou Bérou pass and the Cabane des Parisiens (Parisians' Hut ). Those who wish can attempt the ascent of Vieux Chaillol (3,163m), an iconic peak in the area. The descent towards Chaillol first crosses alpine pastures before entering a larch forest , creating a striking contrast with the stark, rocky landscape of the morning. Towards the end of the route, the landscape opens up to the hills of the Gapençais region , the bocage countryside of the Champsaur valley, and the Dévoluy mountain range , for a gentle arrival in a more pastoral setting.
Day 5 -
From Chaillol Station to Costes
- Transportation Minibus - 00h20 - 5km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 8h
- Distance 22 km
- Positive elevation gain 619 m
- Negative elevation 1230 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
For this final day, you'll begin the descent towards the Gioberney parking area , the starting point of the route. Along the way, a detour leads to the Bleuté and Lauzon lakes , nestled in a peaceful setting, perfect for a final moment of quiet contemplation. The route, short but varied, descends from the rocky heights of the refuge towards the valley, passing through grassy and wooded slopes . A beautiful way to gently conclude this tour, amidst the serenity of the high-altitude lakes and memories of the adventure just completed.
Day 6
Accommodation
During this stay, you will sleep in several different accommodations.
Access
Departure
Pont la Place, 05800 La Chapelle-en-Valgaudémar, France
Day 1
: 08h00
End of stay
Pont la Place, 05800 La Chapelle-en-Valgaudémar, France
Day 6
- 17h00
Go to the starting point
Take the train toGap
From Gap, there is no direct train to the village – you then have to continue by local bus, taxi or rental car
Travel to the place of stay
Find out about parking options nearby
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Price details
The price includes
- The trip will be led by an experienced and passionate mountain guide.
- Accommodation in mountain huts and dormitories
- Full board from dinner on Day 1 to lunch on Day 6
The price does not include
- Transportation to the meeting point
- Day 1 picnic
- Personal expenses and drinks in the refuge
- Showers in the refuge (if applicable)
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Decathlon Travel Partner
The Olivier team
5/5
(8 reviews)
• 41 stays
Spécialisée dans les séjours en effectif réduit, notre partenaire local est une agence de voyage dédiée à l'aventure humaine et sportive. Elle propose des expériences de randonnée pédestre et des circuits en raquettes à neige, adaptés aux envies de chaque marcheur.
L'agence décline ses programmes sous deux formats : des séjours "en étoile" pour rayonner autour d'un point fixe confortable, ou des parcours en itinérance pour une immersion totale au fil des sentiers. Son expertise garantit une organisation rigoureuse et une convivialité propre aux petits groupes de passionnés.
L'agence décline ses programmes sous deux formats : des séjours "en étoile" pour rayonner autour d'un point fixe confortable, ou des parcours en itinérance pour une immersion totale au fil des sentiers. Son expertise garantit une organisation rigoureuse et une convivialité propre aux petits groupes de passionnés.
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Subscriber benefit
save 5%
by joining
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Decathlon Travel Benefits
Best price guaranteed:
We offer twice the difference
Free cancellation more than 30 days in advance
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