Immersive tour of Valgaudemar, jewel of the Écrins
In summary
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Sports
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Duration6 days
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LevelExpert
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DestinationÉcrins Massif / Hautes-Alpes
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AgeFrom the age of 18
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CO₂-Emissions39.09 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
In a few words
Embark on a unique alpine adventure in the heart of the Valgaudemar Valley , a hidden gem of the Écrins National Park . Nicknamed the "Little French Himalayas," this remote valley unveils a spectacular landscape of towering peaks , hanging glaciers , and verdant valleys , sculpted by the elements. Here, nature reigns supreme , offering hikers a rare immersion in a wild and pristine world.
Far from the summer crowds, this stay offers a complete escape , on secluded trails bordered by waterfalls and tranquility. The discreet presence of shepherds and their flocks reminds us that this place, though isolated, lives to the rhythm of the mountains. Each stage invites contemplation, a blend of physical exertion and constant wonder .
Ideal for mountain lovers seeking authenticity and solitude , this accessible trek immerses you in a magnificent alpine atmosphere , perfect for rejuvenation. A loop route, punctuated by nights spent in mountain huts, allows you to explore one of the most pristine valleys in the French Alps.
The highlights
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A complete tour of Valgaudemar
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High mountain landscapes
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A group of up to 8 people
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
In figures
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 6h30
- Average distance/day: 14 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 999 m
- Average daily descent: 911 m
- Exposed Passages: Yes
Management
French
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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The lakes of Pétarel
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 6h
- Distance 13 km
- Positive elevation gain 860 m
- Negative elevation 860 m
- Accommodation Cottage
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
The group will meet their guide at 8:00 AM in La Chapelle-en-Valgaudémar (05800) . After a quick briefing, you'll begin the loop hike to Lake Pétarel , nestled in a stunning alpine setting. The trail climbs gradually through forests and alpine pastures, eventually revealing a breathtaking view of the Olan , an iconic peak of the massif. After a break by the lake, you'll return to La Chapelle via the same route. Check-in and overnight stay at the Gîte Les Mélèzes .
Day 1 -
From the Chapel to the Refuge of Breaths
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 6h
- Distance 11 km
- Positive elevation gain 1028 m
- Negative elevation 174 m
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
From La Chapelle-en-Valgaudémar (1635m) , you follow the Séveraisse river towards the village of Villar-Loubière , along a quiet path at the bottom of the valley. After this gentle warm-up, the ascent to the Refuge du Souffle begins. The route quickly gains altitude, offering superb panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. The landscape becomes more rugged as you approach the refuge, perched facing the mountains. Overnight at the Refuge des Souffles .
Day 2 -
From the Souffles refuge to the Olan refuge
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 7h
- Distance 11 km
- Positive elevation gain 1530 m
- Negative elevation 1158 m
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
From the Refuge des Souffles , you'll reach Lac Lautier , nestled in a high mountain setting. For those who wish, an ascent of Pic Turbat (3000m) is offered as an option. This summit offers a breathtaking view of Mont Olan and the surrounding peaks. The descent then follows the Pas de l'Olan , an alpine pass that marks the transition to the valley. Arrival at the Refuge de l'Olan for a well-deserved night's rest.
Day 3 -
From the Olan refuge to the Vallompierre refuge
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 8h
- Distance 20 km
- Positive elevation gain 1232 m
- Negative elevation 1298 m
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Starting from the Olan refuge , the route descends to the valley floor, where you'll reach the banks of the stream. The trail then follows a path along the valley floor towards the Rif du Sap , before passing near the Xavier Blanc refuge . A steady climb finally leads you to the Vallompierre refuge , nestled in a wild cirque. Along the way, a stop near the parking area allows you to retrieve any belongings left in your car, if needed. Overnight at the Vallompierre refuge .
Day 4 -
From the Vallompierre refuge to the Pigeonnier refuge
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 8h
- Distance 17 km
- Positive elevation gain 1165 m
- Negative elevation 1024 m
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
From the Vallompierre refuge , you set off beneath the imposing silhouette of the Sirac , in a spectacular alpine setting. The route leads to the Chabournéou refuge , nestled opposite the glaciers, before reaching the vast Beaume Rousse plateau , a land of silence and high altitude. A final steady climb then takes you to the Pigeonnier refuge , clinging to the mountainside. Overnight at the Pigeonnier refuge .
Day 5 -
From the Pigeonnier refuge to the Chapel
- Transportation Minibus - 00h20 - 5km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 8 km
- Positive elevation gain 175 m
- Negative elevation 948 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
For this final day, you leave the Pigeonnier refuge and begin your descent into the valley. The route takes a detour via the Bleu and Lauzon lakes , offering a beautiful moment of contemplation before the end of your stay. You then leisurely return to the Gioberney parking area (La Chapelle-en-Valgaudemar) , the final point of this loop trek through the Valgaudemar valley.
Day 6
Accommodation
Access
Go to the starting point
From Gap, there is no direct train to the village – you then have to continue by local bus, taxi or rental car.
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
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
Clothing for hiking:
- 1 sun hat or cap,
- 1 BUFF-type multifunctional beanie or neck warmer
- 1 pair of lightweight gloves to protect against the cold at altitude,
- 1 short-sleeved t-shirt suitable for exertion (synthetic or natural microfiber type),
- 1 insulating garment such as: fleece or down jacket,
- 1 waterproof and breathable windproof jacket with a hood if possible (Gore-Tex type or equivalent), or 1 rain poncho
- 1 protective cover for the backpack against bad weather (often integrated into the bags),
- 1 pair of loose-fitting trekking trousers, or 1 pair of shorts or bermudas suitable for walking.
- 1 pair of hiking socks.
- 1 pair of hiking shoes that provide good ankle support and are waterproof, with Vibram-type soles. Remember to "test" new shoes and those that have not been used for a long time beforehand (low shoes are not recommended).
The essentials:
- One backpack of at least 45 liters with a reinforced frame and a hip belt. Please note: choosing the right backpack is crucial! To avoid back pain and fully enjoy your trip, it must be suited to your body type and the weight you will be carrying. Backpack rental available (€5).
- 2 telescopic poles, available for loan
- 1 large plastic bag to protect the inside of the backpack,
- 1 pair of category 3 sunglasses,
- 1 water bottle (allow 1L to 1.5L/person) or hydration bladder such as a CamelBak with a drinking tube,
- Race food, and snacks for breaks…
- 1 small pouch (preferably waterproof) to put your money, identity card, bank card, health insurance card, assistance contract (the rest of your papers and car key can be left at the hotel during your stay),
- 1 survival blanket,
- Toilet paper with a zip-lock bag to put it in.
- Sunscreen without nanomaterials, SPF 4
- 1 headlamp,
- A whistle, to hang on the strap of your backpack.
Change of clothes
- 2 changes of underwear.
- 2 pairs of socks
- 1 short-sleeved t-shirt, 1 long-sleeved t-shirt
- 1 pair of trousers or shorts
Your toilet:
- The essentials you'll need: keep them to an absolute minimum! A toothbrush, an open tube of toothpaste (or better yet, your homemade biodegradable toothpaste), a bar of soap (like Marseille soap) or a tube of liquid soap, a small microfiber towel, a washcloth. Two clothespins
In case:
- Earplugs if you are a light sleeper (or in case of snorers!),
In case of minor injuries (your guide will also have a group first-aid kit, please note that no medication will be provided by the guide):
- Your prescribed medications (see your prescription)
- Pain medication: paracetamol preferably,
- Elastic adhesive tape, Elastoplast type, 8 cm wide.
- Sets of adhesive bandages + disinfectant compresses,
Double skin (like Compeed or SOS blisters).
Clothing to bring
REQUIRED EQUIPMENT
- An airtight container for picnics (available for loan)
- Silk sheet (rental available for €2)
- Your knife, fork, spoon
If you have your own equipment and would like to bring it, please let us know.
