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2-day walking tour of the Etache rock - Stage 2 - From the Ambin refuge to Le Planay
Description
If you're a fan of undiscovered regions, the Val d'Ambin is the place for you. Between mountain pastures and high-altitude passes, this short getaway promises a weekend out of the ordinary. It's the ideal introduction to the pleasures of itinerancy.
Technical Information
Altimetric profile
Starting point
Date and time
- From 15/06/2026 to 15/10/2026
- From 15/06/2027 to 15/10/2027
Additional information
Open period
Itinerary accessible outside snow periods and subject to favorable weather conditions. Check with the Tourist Office beforehand for current access conditions. We strongly advise you to book accommodation in advance (please note that opening dates vary according to hut).
Updated by
Communauté de communes Haute Maurienne Vanoise - 10/03/2026
www.cchautemaurienne.com
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Environments
Overview on river
Mountain view
Panoramic view
Mountain location
Contact
Phone : 04 79 05 99 06
Email : info@hautemaurienne.com
Website : https://www.haute-maurienne-vanoise.com
Type of land
Stone
Ground
Grit
Not suitable for strollers
Location complements
RD100 out of Bramans on a narrow asphalt road. Stop at the Planay parking lot before the bridge leading to the refuge du Suffet. Possibility of parking for several nights. 1 minute walk from the refuge.
Topo guides and map references
Map references :
Map IGN 3634OT - Val Cenis
Reception complements
You must book your overnight stay in a refuge in advance.
Stay on the trails, following the signs, and take your garbage with you.
Guidebook with maps/step-by-step
2/ Prefer an early start to reach your maximum altitude. You'll have to enter a more mineral world, sometimes still well covered with snow in early summer. Crampons and poles will often come in handy to get you over the late nevés near Lac Noir. The abundant signposting allows you to follow your path intuitively.
At an altitude of 2710 metres, the pas de la coche is not far off. Discreet chamois sometimes follow you with their eyes. Here you are on the last difficulty, which promises a unique experience in a high-mountain setting. Such a wild pass at an altitude of almost 3000 metres is not for everyone! It's time to switch to the other side of the Roche d'Etache via the Pas de la Coche. The descent will be cautious between scree slopes and flats. What an impressive cliff seen from below! Take the time to stop at the foot of this fascinating giant. In fine weather, rhododendrons in bloom give a fuchsia-pink hue to the alpine grass that lines the slopes. From the Plan des Eaux descent, can you make out the footbridge over the Plan d'Etache torrent? There's no doubt that it will mark your next refreshing break. Now you're immersed in the calm of the valley. Take the opportunity to stop off at the Etache farm for refreshments in a bucolic atmosphere. Local products and carefully selected drinks will punctuate the end of your escape. This rejuvenating stop is the perfect starting point for a 2 km descent along the torrent. Don't hesitate to round off your itinerary with dinner and a final night at the refuge du Suffet.
Animals
Yes. Animals must be kept on a leash throughout this itinerary for your safety and that of the herds.
Data author
