

How amazing, to find yourself in such high mountains with such little effort, enjoying a beautiful view of the suspended Charbonnel glacier.
The Avérole valley is home to a few of the Haute Maurienne's typical farming villages that are still intact (La Goulaz, Vincendières and Avérole). This itinerary presents no major difficulty as it climbs gently to the end of the valley. You can even extend your trip up to the Averole refuge which is open and guarded during the summer. Seasoned mountain bikers can make the extra climb in the saddle, while others may have to walk. The decor promises waterfalls, glaciers and high peaks.
From 01/06 to 15/10.
Subject to favorable snow and weather conditions.
Communauté de communes Haute Maurienne Vanoise - 23/12/2025
www.cchautemaurienne.com
Report a problem
Mountain view
Presence of livestock and guard dogs
Phone : 04 79 05 99 06
Email : info@hautemaurienne.com
Website :
https://www.haute-maurienne-vanoise.com
http://www.cchautemaurienne.com/jy-vais-en
Stone
Ground
Grit
The start of the route is on the Place de la Mairie in Bessans.
I'll get there by bus: Line S53 - Mairie / La Poste stop (in summer, the bus is equipped with a bicycle trailer - ask about days and times).
By car: park in the parking lot in front of the town hall.
Topo guides references :
Haute Maurienne Vanoise mountain bike map and booklet sold for €4 in Tourist Offices.
As hazards may occur at any time on the routes, the GPX tracks provided are not contractual. They are provided for information only. Riders use them at their own risk, depending on their level of technological proficiency and their understanding of the terrain.
The climb to the foot of the refuge is long but very easy.
No technical difficulties on the classic route. The black level variant is very technical with trialling passages and calls to the void. It is intended for good pilots only. Once you have started, there is no way out. Be careful if you do not have the required level for this passage, you will be obliged to carry and/or push your bike for several hundred metres.
Yes. Dogs on a leash are not forbidden on this trail, but mountain bikers are advised not to use it.