Hiking around Mont Viso with overnight stays in mountain huts
In summary
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Sports
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Duration4 days
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LevelConfirmed
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DestinationQueyras Massif / Hautes-Alpes
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AgeFrom 18 - 90 years
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CO₂-Emissions20.33 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
In a few words
Around the majestic Mont Viso , this multi-day trek plunges you into the heart of the Cottian Alps for a complete immersion between France and Italy . From the Guil Valley , the route winds through larch forests , verdant alpine pastures , and spectacular rocky landscapes , leading to the refuge at the foot of the giant. Crossing the Col de la Traversette , at nearly 3,000 meters altitude , is a highlight of the journey, with its old border tunnel carved into the rock. On the Italian side, the wild valleys of Piedmont reveal unspoiled nature, with impressive scree slopes , high-altitude lakes , and discreet alpine wildlife . Each day brings its share of contrasts and breathtaking panoramas, punctuated by stops in welcoming mountain refuges with their authentic charm. The adventure concludes with a spectacular return via the Col de Vallanta , facing the imposing silhouette of Mont Viso. A challenging route, rich in alpine emotions and wild escape .
The highlights
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A wild immersion between France and Italy around the majestic Mont Viso
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Crossing the Traversette pass and its tunnel carved into the rock
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Observe the ibex in the Piedmont valleys, dominated by the imposing Mont Viso
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
The expert's opinion
- You can walk for about 5 hours a day, with 700 to 800m of ascent, on paths that are sometimes stony or a little steep.
- You are comfortable with hiking for several days in a row, with a light pack containing your belongings for sleeping in mountain huts during your stay.
- You enjoy group adventures, sharing meals in mountain huts, sleeping in dormitories, and being in a wild and natural setting.
- You are comfortable with varied mountain terrain, sometimes technical, but adaptable if needed.
In figures
Hiking
- Average distance/day: 13 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 713 m
- Average daily descent: 725 m
Management
French
I discovered the mountains at a very young age thanks to my parents, who took me hiking every summer. Very quickly, I felt a disconnect between city life and what truly resonates with me: the mountains. Nevertheless, I pursued studies in biological engineering. A few years later, I decided to resign and embark on training to become a Mountain Leader (AMM), while simultaneously training in Hatha and Vinyasa Yoga.
Program
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Day 1
- Activity Hiking
- Distance 8 km
- Positive elevation gain 660 m
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
The group will meet at 10:00 AM at La Roche Écroulée, at the end of the Guil Valley. After introductions and a gear check, the hike begins along the stream, in the shade of larch trees. Gradually, the landscape opens up and Mont Viso appears on the horizon. The climb, steady but sustained, leads to the Refuge du Viso, nestled in the alpine pastures. An optional hike to Lac Lestio is available at the end of the day. Dinner and overnight stay at the refuge.
Day 1 -
Day 2
- Activity Hiking
- Distance 14 km
- Positive elevation gain 1060 m
- Negative elevation 940 m
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After breakfast, head towards the Col de la Traversette (2,947 m). This historic border crossing features a 15th-century tunnel, passable depending on conditions. The Italian side then reveals a rocky valley, ideal for observing ibex. A more exposed section can be avoided if necessary. Descend amidst lakes and boulders to the Quintino Sella refuge, facing Mont Viso.
Day 2 -
Day 3
- Activity Hiking
- Distance 14 km
- Positive elevation gain 700 m
- Negative elevation 900 m
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
The hike begins at the refuge, traversing a vast scree slope that evokes a high-mountain atmosphere. The route alternates between open valleys and mountain passes, offering sweeping views of Piedmont. The descent continues through pine forests to Lake Castello, then on to a hamlet on the lake's shore. The day concludes with the ascent of the Vallanta valley, between streams and alpine pastures, back to the refuge.
Day 3 -
Day 4
- Activity Hiking
- Distance 13 km
- Positive elevation gain 430 m
- Negative elevation 1060 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
The final stage involves the gradual ascent of the Vallanta Pass (2,810 m), framed by rocky outcrops and scree. From the pass, there's a panoramic view over the Guil Valley. The descent on the French side alternates between high-altitude trails and larch forests before reaching Roche Écroulée in the late morning. End of the trip.
Day 4
Accommodation
Viso Refuge
Quintino Sella Refuge
Vallenta Refuge
Access
We'll meet at 10am at La Roche Ecroulée.
Go to the starting point
Here are the correspondences:
- Paris Gare de Lyon > Grenoble (3 hours)
- Grenoble > Gap (2h32)
- Gap > Montdauphin-Guillestre (1h05)
- Montdauphin > Guillestre (8 min)
Once in Guillestre, you can organize a carpool with your group and your guide for the last few kilometers to L'Echalp, the meeting point of the expedition.
It is possible to park in a car park at La Roche Ecroulée and leave your car there for the duration of your stay.
Price details
The price includes
- The trip was led by Laura, an experienced and passionate local guide.
- Accommodation in mountain huts in a typical and welcoming atmosphere
- All meals are included from the first evening until the last lunchtime, giving you the opportunity to taste the region's specialties.
The price does not include
- Transportation to the meeting point
- Personal consumption
- Anything not listed under "Price includes"
- Day 1's picnic
Options
- Additional night before the stay : CHF59.46 / person
- Additional night after the stay : CHF59.46 / 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.
