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Les trois lacs - Hiking trail
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Description
Below the Galibier, the jagged mountains of the Cerces are split by several passes that give access to the “département” of Les Hautes Alpes. The Lacs de Cerces are undoubtedly the brightest jewel in the area’s crown.
All around you are vast meadows where sheep can be seen moving in the distance, in a white wave whose advance follows the movements of the relief.
When you reach Granges des Mottets, leave the track and follow the path up the mountainside. Look up and you'll surely spot vultures circling over the tapering ridges of the Massif des Cerces.
A little further on, Lac des Cerces appears, curled up in its stone nest. The blue of its waters, reflecting the clear sky, stands out against the charcoal grey of the rocks and the soft green of the grass. Take the time to pause here.
Further on, a second and then a third lake dot the trail, like pearls in a jewel.
After the Col des Rochilles, you'll discover a different atmosphere as you cross the military camp. Discover the Maginot works at Les Rochilles (1931/1940) and spend a night in the shoes of a soldier, sleeping in the building transformed into a refuge! To activate geolocation, click on the map icon.
Technical Information
Altimetric profile
Starting point
Points of interest
Additional information
Open period
Throughout the year : open daily.
Tips
- Find out about weather conditions before you leave.
- This hike takes place in summer when there is no more snow.
- Inform someone of your itinerary, as communication may be limited.
- It's best to set off in the morning, so as not to be caught out at night, and let someone know if you're going on your own.
- The routes you take are your own responsibility.
- Choose an itinerary suited to your physical and technical ability. If in doubt, don't hesitate to contact mountain professionals.
- Make sure you're properly equipped to hike safely and cope with the vagaries of the weather. There are a few things you can do to make your experience safer and more enjoyable. Walking poles improve balance, and regular hydration is essential.
Carry a water bottle and snacks to keep your energy up. Protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen and sunglasses. Don't forget binoculars to add a touch of observation to your adventure.
Updated by
Agence alpine des territoires - 12/06/2025
www.agate-territoires.fr
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Environments
Lakeside or by stretch of water
Waterside
Lake view
Mountain location
Close to a public transportation
Near shuttle stop
Contact
Phone : 04 79 59 03 96
Email : info@valloire.net
Website : https://www.valloire.net/quoi-faire/la-randonnee/
Type of land
Rock
Stone
Ground
Grit
Not suitable for strollers
Location complements
Car access and parking: From Valloire, take the Galibier road for 8 km. Before the last bridge over the Valloirette river, park on the left at the Plan Lachat parking lot.
Map: IGN Map: Top 25 - 3435 ET Valloire / Aiguilles d'Arves / Col du Galibier
Topo : la Maurienne à pied réf : P731
In summer, a shuttle bus runs between the center of Valloire and Plan Lachat several times a day.
Topo guides and map references
Topo guides references :
Topoguide Savoie Mont Blanc on foot
Map references :
Map of Valloire hiking and mountain biking trails, on sale at the tourist office.
IGN map 3435ET VALLOIRE - Aiguilles d'Arves / Col du Galibier is on sale in Valloire shops.
Reception complements
To keep the mountains a pleasure, choose an activity suited to your level of experience and physical ability. Check the weather and seek advice from qualified professionals, and tell someone about your itinerary. Set off with the right equipment: good shoes and walking poles. In your rucksack, carry a water bottle and snacks to keep your energy levels up, a survival blanket or warm clothing. Protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen and sunglasses. Don't forget binoculars to add a touch of observation to your adventure.
Guidebook with maps/step-by-step
Start: From the Plan Lachat parking lot at 1980 m altitude, take the military trail to the Mottets barns.
1/ Take the path on the right towards Lac des Cerces.
2/ At the lake, turn left on the GR 57 towards the Col des Cerces. 3/ Once over the pass, the path descends between Lac Rond and Lac du Grand Ban.
4/ Skirt both lakes on the right, then continue towards the Col des Rochilles.
5/ At the Rochilles camp, join the Plan Lachat parking lot, descending along the hiking trail.
6/ Cross the small Jargette stream and continue down to Plan Lachat.
7/ At the end of the trail, follow the Mottet track to the Plan Lachat parking lot.
Animals
Yes. Pets must be kept on a leash.
Data author
