Alert
Alerts
Tour des Aiguilles d'Arves : Refuge des Aiguilles d’Arves - Albanne
Description
From the Aiguilles d'Arves mountain pastures to the hamlet of Albanne, this varied stage passes through valleys, forests and mountain villages. A panoramic route passing through Le Vallon, Valloire and Poingt-Ravier before reaching the charming village of Albanne.
From the Aiguilles d'Arves refuge, the itinerary begins with a balcony traverse through the mountain pastures, offering fine views of the surrounding peaks. The trail then reaches the chalets du Vallon, a typical pastoral hamlet nestled in the heart of the pastures.
The descent continues towards Valloire, alternating between mountain pasture paths and passages through a pleasant larch forest. The route then skirts the Valloirette before climbing up to the remarkable hamlet of Poingt-Ravier, known for its traditional architecture and open views of the Telegraphe fort.
The trail continues through mountain pastures and melezins, passing by the famous Gros Mélèze, a remarkable tree in the area. The route finally reaches the peaceful hamlet of Albanne, perched high above the valley and renowned for its charm and unspoilt atmosphere. It's a varied stage that blends pastoral landscapes, mountain villages and forest atmospheres.
Technical Information
Altimetric profile
Starting point
Date and time
- From 20/06/2027 to 22/09/2027
Additional information
Open period
From 20/06 to 22/09 daily.
Subject to favorable snow and weather conditions.
Tips
We advise you to book accommodation well in advance, given its small capacity. Map-reading skills are essential. Recommended equipment : - Mountain boots suitable for walking on varied terrain (rigid soles) - Rainwear - Warm clothing - Pair of telescopic poles - IGN map of Tour des Aiguilles d'Arve - Sufficient water and food. Cheques or cash (CB terminals not always available in refuges).
Updated by
Office de Tourisme de Valloire - 27/08/2026
www.valloire.net/
Report a problem
Environments
Mountain view
Panoramic view
Presence of livestock and guard dogs
Mountain location
Contact
Phone : 04 79 59 03 96
Email : info@valloire.fr
Website : https://www.valloire.net/
Type of land
Rock
Ground
Grit
Not suitable for strollers
Topo guides and map references
Map references :
Tour des Aiguilles d'Arves IGN map - on sale in Tourist Offices
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.
Tricky passages
Le Mauvais Pas
Crossing a stream can be tricky in June, when the snow melts.
Guidebook with maps/step-by-step
1/ Descend from the refuge to Commandrault, then turn left on a balcony path through the mountain pastures to the Chalets du Vallon.
2/ At the end of the hamlet, turn right onto the path that cuts through the hairpin bends in the track towards Les Verneys.
3/ Rejoin the track, follow it for 2 hairpins then leave it by turning left to descend a path that crosses a mélézin to Les Choseaux Verneys.
4/ Turn right and descend to Les Verneys. Cross the road, then the footbridge, and turn left to follow the Valloirette along its right bank.
5/ At the Assinerie signpost, level with the riding school, follow the Borgé straight ahead between the riding school and the riding school building.
6/ Continue straight ahead along the fitness trail as far as the Valoirette footbridge.
7/ Cross the footbridge, then turn right along the parking lot.
8/ At the Borgé, turn left to go up to the Poingt Ravier hamlet.
9/ At the center of the hamlet, turn left onto a path that climbs up to a mountain pasture.
10/ At Fournache, turn right towards Clos Albannel.
11/ At the chalet, continue into the mountain pasture as far as La Turraz.
12/ Take the second path on the right down into the melezin to the big larch tree.
13/ From the big larch tree, turn left towards Les Karellis.
14/ At the next junction, go straight ahead, then turn right onto a path that curves down to a footbridge.
15/ Continue straight on to Albanne. Once on the road, turn left to go up the village.
Data author
