The Queyras GR58 tour revisited (without a guide)

Explore a day amidst the natural beauty of the forest, charming hilltop hamlets, and historical remnants of bygone farming practices. The highlight of this adventure? Immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of Saint-Véran, the jewel of European villages perched atop the mountains. A day spent immersed in the heart of Alpine nature and culture, in the highest place in Europe!
Starting from the sporty variant: +1,297 m, -669 m, 7 hours of walking

Prepare to leave Saint-Véran for an incredible Italian adventure via the famous Tête des Toillies circuit (3,175 m). It's a truly breathtaking spectacle! You'll be surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Alps, a series of shimmering lakes, the imposing face of Mont Viso... and of course, don't miss Chianale (1,820 m), one of the most beautiful villages in Piedmont.

There are several options for exploring this day! Whether it's a short detour to the lakes or a higher mountain pass, the choice will depend on your energy level and the weather conditions.

Possible sporting route: +1069 m; -1295 m; 7 hours of walking

Here you are on a path less frequented than the GR58, setting you apart from the usual hikers. Your departure from Val Varaita takes you into a small, wild valley, the Vallon di Soustra. You'll be surrounded by the gentle tinkling of cowbells, you'll encounter free-roaming horses, and you'll discover a small lake bordering the refuge. Furthermore, from the pass, an option allows you to climb Punta, which rises to over 3,000 meters, offering an unforgettable view of the majestic face of Monte Viso. A unique experience, far from the hustle and bustle, awaits you in this corner of unspoiled nature!

Variant towards Pointe Joanne: +200 m, 1 hour 30 minutes round trip

No baggage transfer possible.

Welcome to the Haut Guil-Viso Nature Reserve, a true sanctuary for flora and fauna. You'll be amazed by the breathtaking panorama, the magnificent lakes, and the opportunity to cross two high mountain passes, allowing you to explore the border region. On the Italian side, the alpine pastures are thriving, with restored dwellings where cheese is still made using traditional methods. An immersion in the heart of unspoiled nature and local culture awaits you!
No baggage transfer possible.

Ready for another border crossing into France? We're following in the footsteps of the Protestants' flight in 1685! A narrow, wild mountain pass opens the doors to the Queyras region and the sublime alpine pastures of Valpréveyre. Don't miss the chance to reach this little corner of paradise and hike the balcony trail that will lead you to the charming hamlet of Pra Roubau, where renovations have been admirably carried out. A stage rich in history and natural beauty awaits you!

Prepare for an exciting day on this variant of the GR58, undoubtedly the longest and most breathtaking stage in terms of distance and elevation gain. It is particularly popular with hikers seeking tranquility and authenticity. After discovering the small, forgotten hamlets of the Upper Guil Valley, you will embark on a true ascent towards the Col des Thures, followed by the Col de Rasis. Take a moment to recover by a peaceful little lake before beginning your traverse towards the majestic Pic du Malrif! Remember to stay on the trail carefully...

Now that you've reached the summit, your view will alternate between the majestic Mont Viso and the shimmering Grand Laus lake below. All that remains is to begin your descent back to the valley.

• Room option (option 1): You can hike to the summits if you wish, then descend into the Guil Valley to discover the small village of Aiguilles where you will spend the night. +1,403 m, -1,667 m, 7 hours 45 minutes of walking

• Dormitory option (option 2): From the lake, you cross the pass to descend into the valley and reach Fonds de Cervières. +1,245 m, -780 m, 7 hours of walking

OPTION 1 (Room Package): AIGUILLES (1,480 m) - ROUET (1,805 m) - CHÂTEAU-QUEYRAS - VILLE-VIEILLE (1,380 m)

You are about to embark on a truly delightful route: a balcony trail offering breathtaking views of the valley, with the discovery of charming perched hamlets in the Combe du Guil such as Meyries and Rouet. Don't hesitate to stop at the small cheese shop in Rouet before descending towards Château-Queyras, where you can admire its majestic fortress. For those seeking a more challenging hike, the Col de la Crêche offers a spectacular panorama of the Queyras region.

Distances - Elevation Gain - Walking Time - Technical Skills

Normal: +648 m, -722 m, 5 hours 30 minutes of walking

Athletic: +997 m, -1079 m, 7 hours 30 minutes of walking

OPTION 2 (Dormitory option): FONTS DE CERVIÈRES (2,040 m) - COL DE PEAS (2,629 m) - VILLE-VIEILLE (1,380 m)

The hike begins by leaving the refuge and heading towards the Col Péas pass. As you progress, the magnificent panorama of the Queyras region gradually unfolds. Following the path along an old canal, you eventually reach the majestic summit of the Col de la Crèche pass, perched at 2,284 meters. The view from this vantage point is simply breathtaking. It's the perfect spot to enjoy your picnic, with the valleys and peaks that have punctuated your week of adventure as your backdrop.

Distances - Elevation Gain - Walking Time - Technical Skills

+641 m, -1308 m, 6 hours of walking