Tour of the Obiou at your own pace: a self-guided hiking tour in the Dévoluy

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.

Your bag's bottom

1. 30/35 litre backpack with waist belt.
2. 2 telescopic poles (recommended) for better stability.
3. Waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support and Vibram soles are essential. Be sure to test them before setting off, especially if they are new or haven't been used for a long time. Low-cut shoes are not recommended for trips of level 3 or higher.
4. Thermos, water bottle or water bladder with a drinking tube with a capacity of at least 1.5 liters per person.
5. Small airtight plastic container, cup, knife and fork for picnics.
6. Race supplies to replenish energy along the way.
7. A small waterproof pouch for your valuables such as: cash, ID card, bank card, health insurance card, and assistance contract. You can leave the rest of your documents and car keys at the hotel during your stay.
8. Emergency survival blanket.
9. Toilet paper with a sealed bag to wrap it up and throw it in the first available bin.

Important : At the beginning of the season, depending on snow conditions, small hiking crampons may be necessary. The area in question is mainly along the Italian border, before and after the Agnel refuge.

For the evening at the accommodation

1. Simplify your life by packing only the essentials. For a week of hiking, a few changes of clothes are more than enough. As for toiletries, opt for the essentials, choosing compact sizes, samples, and travel kits, especially if you have to carry your backpack.
2. Remember that a sleeping bag liner is mandatory as the beds are already equipped with duvets or blankets. Make sure your luggage doesn't exceed 8 kg to facilitate transfers and ensure your comfort throughout your adventure.

Personal pharmacy

1. Your first aid kit should be kept to a minimum. In your backpack, only carry your essential personal medications, compresses, elastic bandages, disinfectant, etc.

Attention! Sleeping bag liners are mandatory in guesthouses and mountain huts (beds are equipped with duvets or blankets).

Recommended clothing for hiking:

When hiking, adhering to the three-layer principle is essential to guarantee your comfort and safety throughout your journey:

1. Breathable short-sleeved T-shirt: Choose a breathable hollow fiber T-shirt to wick away sweat when you are active.
2. Fleece jacket: This fleece jacket keeps you warm in cool weather by providing extra thermal insulation.
3. Waterproof and breathable windproof jacket (like Gore-Tex or equivalent): This outer layer effectively protects you against inclement weather such as rain, snow or wind, keeping your body dry and sheltered from the elements.

Adapt your clothing according to the weather and activity level. For example, in pleasant weather, a base layer may be sufficient. In bad weather, add a waterproof jacket. In cold weather or at altitude, wear a fleece jacket under your windproof jacket.

Choose clothes that dry quickly, avoid cotton which retains moisture, and favor materials like wool, silk and synthetic fibers to stay dry and warm.

Remember that you are in the mountains, where the sun is intense and the UV index is high. Temperatures can change rapidly depending on altitude and season. It is therefore essential to equip yourself with appropriate protection such as sunglasses, a neck warmer, and sunscreen for your comfort and safety.