Hiking and via ferrata in the Southern Alps
In summary
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Sports
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Duration2 days
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LevelAll levels
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DestinationMercantour National Park / Alpes-Maritimes
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AgeFrom 14 - 80 years
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CO₂-Emissions25.95 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
In a few words
Here is a suggested summary for your trip description, optimized for Decathlon Travel :
Immerse yourself in the heart of the Southern Alps , where the pure mountain air meets the warmth of the Mediterranean sun . Starting from the picturesque village of Roubion , this loop trail invites you to a total immersion in outdoor sports and local traditions.
Your adventure begins with a discovery hike through larch forests ablaze with color. On the way to the flowery alpine pastures, you'll encounter wildlife and explore the history of pastoralism . This cultural journey, punctuated by a visit to the historic Saint-Sébastien chapel , will provide an opportunity to discuss current issues facing mountain life, including the return of the wolf.
Indulge in delicious food at lunchtime at the Auberge de Pays , where you'll savor authentic local products , complemented by a visit to the local cheese dairy . To conclude your stay in style, take to the heights on the Roubion via ferrata . Between rock faces and breathtaking panoramas, you'll experience a rush of adrenaline in a pristine setting. A perfect blend of shared adventure and escape.
The highlights
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An immersive hike through larch forests and alpine pastures to encounter wildlife
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Enjoy a traditional lunch at a country inn and visit an authentic local cheese dairy.
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Fascinating discussions on pastoralism and the challenges of the wolf's return to the mountains
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
In figures
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 3h
- Average distance/day: 12 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 300 m
- Average daily descent: 300 m
Rock climbing
- Average duration/day: 3h
- Predominant type of road : Cliff/Rack
Via ferrata
- Average duration/day: 2h
Management
French
State-certified mountain guide/country guide & state-certified climbing instructor
Program
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Larch forests and pastoral activities around Roubion
- Transportation Car - 15h - 4km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Distance 12 km
- Positive elevation gain 300 m
- Negative elevation 300 m
- Accommodation Hostel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Morning: We'll take a loop hike starting from Roubion, which benefits from the fresh air of the Southern Alps and the Mediterranean sun. We'll walk through larch forests, their colors ranging from vibrant yellow to orange, towards flowery alpine pastures, where we might encounter wildlife. This route will allow us to discover pastoralism from past to present. We'll discuss, in particular, the issue of the wolf's return to the alpine pastures and we'll pass by the historic St. Sebastian Chapel. At midday, we'll meet at the Auberge du Moulin, where we'll enjoy a meal featuring local products. Afternoon: We'll visit the Roubion cheese dairy, owned by Nicolas. Your guide is a partner of the Mercantour National Park.
Day 1 -
Via Ferrata and climbing
- Transportation Car - 15h - 5km
- Activity Rock climbing
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Predominant type of road Cliff/Rack
- Activity Via ferrata
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Accommodation Hostel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Your adventure begins southwest of the village, heading towards the Balma Cave. To reach this site, perched at 1500m altitude, you take the GR trail that climbs from the upper part of the village towards the rock face. There, you'll discover a climbing school renowned for its high-quality limestone, offering around thirty routes ranging from 3+ to 7b. This variety allows climbers of all levels, as well as children, to fully enjoy the cliff. To complete your vertical experience, you can tackle the "Balma Negra" Via Ferrata, located very close to the village center. This 300m long route unfolds along a cliff approximately 50m high. You'll progress for 1.5 hours through the heart of the black cave, an ideal outing for a fun and technical introduction to the sport without excessive commitment.
Day 2
Accommodation
In their magnificent wooden chalet in the heart of the Mercantour National Park.
A warm and welcoming family atmosphere, tasteful decor. Special attention is paid to the well-being of our guests.
Access
Go to the starting point
Price details
The price includes
- professional supervision by a mountain guide and climbing instructor
- full board
- shared accommodation double room
- logistical organization and collective equipment
The price does not include
- round-trip transportation to the meeting point
- the site visit
- drinks and additional expenses
- the single room
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment to bring
- Gourd
- Backpack
- Sunglasses
- Walking shoe
- Snack
Clothing to bring
- Sportswear suitable for hiking
- Change of clothes
- Toiletries
