Trekking in the Vanoise massif
In summary
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Sports
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Duration5 days
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LevelAdvance
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DestinationVanoise Massif / Savoy
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AgeFrom 16 - 90 years
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CO₂-Emissions28.38 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
In a few words
Experience a self-guided trek in the heart of the Vanoise National Park , a total immersion in the wild Alps . Between majestic glaciers , flowery alpine pastures , sparkling high-altitude lakes and panoramic mountain passes , each stage reveals varied and unique landscapes .
The rustic charm of nights in a mountain refuge invites conviviality and rejuvenation , in an authentic and preserved setting .
You will be guided by Cyril , a passionate and engaging guide , who will lead this self-supported sporting trek , specially designed for experienced hikers eager to immerse themselves in the splendors of the Vanoise National Park .
Ideal for adventure lovers seeking a sporting challenge and a return to basics , this trek combines physical effort , magnificent landscapes and simplicity for an unforgettable experience.
The highlights
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A multi-day trek in France's first National Park
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Introduction to self-guided trekking with Cyril, a specialist guide for multi-day treks
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The glacial landscapes of the Vanoise with its typical fauna and flora
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
In figures
Trekking
- Average duration/day: 6h
- Average daily elevation gain: 786 m
- Average daily descent: 832 m
Management
French
Program
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Welcome to Pralognan - Refuge de la Valette
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Positive elevation gain 1200 m
- Negative elevation 260 m
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Meet your guide Cyril in Pralognan at 9:30 am (connecting bus to Moutiers train station). After an introduction to the trek, a briefing on the week's activities, and a check of your equipment, the trek begins. From the very first steps, the trail winds through dense forests and verdant alpine pastures, gradually revealing spectacular alpine panoramas. Arriving at the Refuge de la Valette is marked by a breathtaking view of the surrounding peaks, bathed in the changing light of late afternoon. Spend the night in a dormitory in this enchanting setting.
Day 1 -
Valette Refuge - Fond d'Aussois Refuge
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 8h
- Positive elevation gain 1220 m
- Negative elevation 1460 m
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
The day takes us through impressive, stark landscapes dotted with high-altitude lakes and glistening snowfields. Crossing mountain passes offers breathtaking views of the Vanoise glaciers. Arriving at the Fond d'Aussois refuge, nestled in the heart of this wild setting, promises a convivial evening under the starry sky.Day 2 -
Fond d'Aussois Refuge - Arpont Refuge
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 8h
- Positive elevation gain 890 m
- Negative elevation 930 m
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
This stage crosses the vast expanses of the Vanoise National Park. Between flowery meadows, refreshing waterfalls, and discreet wildlife, the trail is an ode to unspoiled nature. The Arpont refuge, perched at the foot of glaciers, offers a breathtaking view of the valleys below.Day 3 -
Arpont Refuge - Vanoise Pass Refuge
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Positive elevation gain 620 m
- Negative elevation 410 m
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
The trail winds through glacial valleys, bordered by majestic peaks. We traverse high mountain landscapes that seem frozen in time. Reaching the Col de la Vanoise refuge, surrounded by lakes and pastures, is a highlight of this trek.Day 4 -
Vanoise Pass Refuge - Genepy Glacier - Pralognan
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Negative elevation 1100 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
For this final day, the trail gradually descends towards Pralognan, offering panoramic views of the valleys and peaks that have accompanied us throughout the trek. Returning to the village marks the end of an unforgettable journey through the Vanoise massif. Departure around 4:00-4:30 PM.Day 5
Note
Accommodation
Access
Go to the starting point
From Moûtiers train station, you can take a bus to Pralognan. The S66 line, Moûtiers – Champagny-en-Vanoise – Pralognan-la-Vanoise, runs year-round from Moûtiers, with increased frequency during the winter and summer seasons.
Price details
The price includes
- The trek will be led by Cyril, a mountain guide.
- The technical organization of the stay
- Accommodation in mountain huts (dormitories) for 4 nights
- All half-board meals and picnics from lunchtime on Day 1 to lunchtime on Day 5
The price does not include
- Transport to the meeting/dispersal point
- Race food (snacks: cereal bars, dried fruit, etc.)
- Luggage transport
- Drinks and personal expenses in the mountain huts
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 provided on site
- Group equipment (compass, altimeter, maps, first aid kit, etc.) is provided by the supervisors.
Equipment to bring
Clothing to bring
When hiking, the 3-layer system remains the recommended equipment for your comfort and safety:
- a short-sleeved t-shirt made of breathable material (hollow fiber) or a long-sleeved t-shirt made of breathable material
- a fleece fur jacket
- a windproof, waterproof and breathable jacket (gore-tex type)
Depending on the weather and the level of exertion, you can always choose the most effective option. When hiking in calm, sunny weather, a base layer may be sufficient. In rain, snow, or wind, simply add a waterproof jacket. In very cold conditions, or during breaks at altitude, a fleece jacket is an essential layer under a windproof jacket.
Pack quick-drying clothes, so avoid cotton. Opt for wool, silk, and synthetic fibers, which will keep you dry and warm for as long as possible. Sweat is a hiker's enemy, as it dampens clothing and chills you during breaks.
Recommended list:
- Cap
- Hat (or cap) for sun protection and/or scarf
- 1 neck warmer, @Buff type
- Excellent quality, category 3 sunglasses
- 1 pair of fleece or wool gloves
- Breathable technical underwear
- 2 Breathable technical undershirts (carline, lightweight fleece, etc.) with long sleeves
- 2 breathable short-sleeved t-shirts
- 1 fleece jacket
- 1 down jacket/vest
- 1 windproof and waterproof Gore-Tex type jacket
- 1 pair of breathable technical tights
- 1 pair of comfortable hiking pants
- 1 pair of Gore-Tex type windproof trousers
- 1 pair of shorts or capri pants
- 2 pairs of socks, one thin pair and one thicker pair (avoid cotton which causes blisters)
- 1 night outfit
Warning: the mountains are unpredictable and unpredictable. We've tried to consider all the different weather conditions they can present. This equipment list will help you adapt comfortably to the mountain's moods!
