Tour of Mont Viso: the complete route in 4 days via the Italian mountain huts
In summary
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Sports
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Duration4 days
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LevelAdvance
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DestinationQueyras Massif / Hautes-Alpes
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AgeFrom 18 - 90 years
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CO₂-Emissions21.87 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
In a few words
Immerse yourself in the heart of the Alps with this four-day trek , a sporty and condensed version to complete the entire Tour du Mont Viso . Between the Queyras and the Italian Piedmont , this high-altitude route mostly stays above 2,000 meters, offering an immediate immersion in the high mountains .
This route is designed for hikers in excellent physical condition, alternating between scenic trails , high-altitude lakes, and wild mountain passes . Under the watchful gaze of the "Stone King," you'll traverse sections that are sometimes technical, adding to the challenging nature of this adventure. Carrying your pack and spending the night in typical Italian mountain huts guarantees an authentic experience, enhanced by the camaraderie of a small group.
Led by a professional guide , you'll progress safely through breathtakingly beautiful, rocky landscapes. This is a unique opportunity to discover the singular atmosphere of the Italian side, often shrouded in the famous " nebbia ," the mystical mist that defines the identity of the massif. An immersive and wild alpine traverse, ideal for disconnecting for a short but intense experience.
The highlights
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The complete Tour du Mont Viso in 4 days in a sporty and immersive version
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Typical Italian mountain huts and a wild alpine atmosphere between Queyras and Piedmont
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Professional guidance for a safe and enriching experience
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
In figures
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 6h30
- Average distance/day: 15 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 1037 m
- Average daily descent: 1038 m
Management
French
Welcome to a team of passionate experts specializing in the Queyras and Mont Viso massif, delighted to accompany you on this alpine trek. A qualified guide with extensive knowledge of the terrain, he will share his high-mountain experience, his deep connection to this border region, and the unique characteristics of these wild valleys between France and Italy.
Throughout the hike, he will introduce you to the natural treasures of the mountain range: the often-present high-altitude wildlife, alpine flora, mineral landscapes, and the history of the ancient routes connecting the valleys. His precise knowledge of the terrain and mountain huts allows him to adapt the pace and fully enjoy each day. He is also available to advise you on managing your exertion, packing your bag, or the specific challenges of hiking at altitude.
To ensure your safety, the guide remains the sole decision-maker regarding the program. They may need to modify the itinerary, schedule, or certain variations depending on weather conditions, terrain, the group's skill level, or any other factor that could compromise the smooth running of the trip.
Program
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From Queyras to the Granero refuge, my first Italian immersion
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 9 km
- Positive elevation gain 1197 m
- Negative elevation 600 m
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Starting in the upper Guil Valley, the route gradually climbs to reach the remote passes around Mont Viso. The ascent leads to the Col Nalbert, a former military crossing that is not frequently used, before crossing into Italy. The landscape quickly becomes more rugged and wild. A final climb leads to the Granero refuge, perched on a promontory with a spectacular view of the border peaks. A challenging first stage to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the tour.
Day 1 -
High-altitude trails and the Giacoletti refuge
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 6h
- Distance 11 km
- Positive elevation gain 1200 m
- Negative elevation 900 m
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
A great day at altitude on trails overlooking Monte Viso. The route crosses several passes, including the Col Manzol and the Col d'Armoine, with some more technical sections equipped for safety. Depending on conditions, alternative routes are possible towards the Rocce Founs or the historic Traversette tunnel. The arrival at the Giacoletti refuge, at nearly 2,740 m, offers an exceptional panorama in a high-mountain setting, often shared with ibex.
Day 2 -
Lakes of Viso and the great mineral crossing
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 7h
- Distance 16 km
- Positive elevation gain 750 m
- Negative elevation 1450 m
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
The day begins with the descent to the turquoise waters of Lake Chiaretto, before reaching the Viso pass and the Quintino Sella refuge at the foot of the giant of stone. The route continues between high-altitude lakes and vast scree slopes in a distinctly mineral landscape. After crossing the Calatà pass, the descent gradually leads to a stunning forest of centuries-old Swiss pines, heralding the arrival at the Bagnour refuge.
Day 3 -
Vallante Valley and return to Queyras
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 8h
- Distance 22 km
- Positive elevation gain 1000 m
- Negative elevation 1200 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
Last day to complete the entire Tour du Mont Viso. The trail first descends into the wild Bagnour valley before reaching the Valante valley and its typical slate barns. The Viso mountain accompanies the ascent until the return to the French side. A long, gradual descent allows you to enjoy the final landscapes before reaching the valley and concluding this alpine trek.
Day 4
Note
Please consider this program a flexible itinerary! Due to variables such as weather, trail conditions, or other factors beyond our control, we may occasionally make adjustments. However, rest assured, our guide is an expert on the mountain range, knowing its every secret, and will strive to guarantee you an exceptional experience. For example, if certain routes are crowded, he will show you magnificent and unspoiled paths to ensure your stay is truly memorable. Get ready to explore enchanting places!
Accommodation
Access
Go to the starting point
Travel by train to Montdauphin-Guillestre Station
Arrive easily from Paris by day or night train. Check the timetables on SNCF Connect. For travelers coming from the south, take the Marseille-Briançon line. Enjoy the simplicity of rail travel to discover this superb destination.
From the train station to the meeting point
Your guide, an agency representative or the Zou shuttle will pick you up at the station on Thursday morning at 8:00 am for the transfer to the meeting point (transport by minibus included in the price of the stay).
Please note that to organize this transport you are required to book your transfer with us at least one week before the date of your stay.
If you arrive outside of these hours, your transfer to the Queyras region will be at your own expense. You can use the regular shuttle buses during the season or take a taxi. Shuttles can be booked with Zou at 0809.400.013 or on zou.maregionsud.fr.
Price details
The price includes
- The stay will be supervised by a state-certified mountain professional.
- Accommodation in Italian mountain huts with half-board
- Cold lunches are provided by the mountain huts.
- Return shuttle transfers from Montdauphin-Guillestre train station
- The organization of the stay
The price does not include
- Transportation to the meeting point
- Drinks and personal expenses
- Showers, when available in the shelters.
- Anything not listed under "Price includes"
Options
- Additional night in a double room, in a hotel : CHF72.27 / person
- Extra night in a double room, in a gîte : CHF53.97 / person
- Additional night in a shared room, in a gîte : CHF44.83 / person
- 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.
