Camping de Fontcouverte: adventure and nature in Nevache

A short stroll from Fontcouverte, the Fontcouverte waterfall is a must-see in the upper Clarée valley, ideal for a family picnic or after a hike. Accessible to all ages. The Fontcouverte waterfall walk can be done from different starting points, depending on your level and desired walking time. Here, the shortest route is directly from the hamlet of Fontcouverte: Park in the Fontcouverte parking lot (opposite the campsite), then head for the Auberge de la Fruitière. Just in front of it, a sign points to the waterfall: take the small path on the left, which descends slightly along the river to the waterfall, just 300m away.

A mineral itinerary takes in a series of the Clarée's must-see lakes, before joining a magnificent rocky ridge overlooking Lac Blanc. The summit is almost a 3000-meter peak, offering breathtaking views of numerous massifs. From the Fontcouverte parking lot, take the footbridge opposite the Auberge de la Fruitière. The route starts just after the footbridge, indicated by the signs for Lac Laramon, Lac du Seprent and Refuge Ricou. This wide, stony path, with its constant, medium-steep gradient, leads straight up to the refuge de Ricou. After a first stop at the refuge Ricou, the surrounding panorama is already spectacular: the Cerces and Queyrellin massifs opposite give an impression of immensity. Just above the Refuge, leave the track and take the well-marked path on the right. This gradually twists and turns upwards for around 15 minutes, until it comes to a crossroads with several itineraries: ignore the paths on either side and continue climbing straight ahead. The path quickly joins the torrent of Lac Laramon up to its spillway, where the full extent of the lake finally comes into view. Perched at an altitude of 2359 metres, this jewel of the Hautes Alpes offers a breathtaking view of the valley, and behind the Queyrellin massif, part of the Dôme des Écrins can be seen. Follow the path around the lake to the left, which then rises steeply: count 100 metres of ascent over a distance of 700 metres to reach Lac du Serpent. Once at Lac du Serpent, the route continues around the lake to the left, then climbs along the torrent des Gardioles. At this point, the signposting becomes less obvious, and several paths intersect to reach the various Gardioles lakes on the left, so stay on the main path. The landscape is suddenly more mineral, as you approach the pas du Grand Cros. The path then climbs up to the Crêtes des Gardioles and the Pas du Lac Blanc, this ridge line leading to a small hill (Pas du Lac Blanc) from which you can see Lac Blanc and the Col du Vallon below. From this small collu, the last ridge line on the left crosses large boulders to finally reach the Pic du Lac Blanc, culminating at 2980 metres. From the summit, the 360° view is the ultimate reward: Écrins, Meije, Mont Blanc, Mont Thabor, Aiguilles d'Arves, Pointe des Cerces, Queyrellin... The return journey takes the same route. Possible return variant: return via Lac Blanc and Vallon, joining Névache directly. To do this, pick up the collu below the Pic du Lac Blanc: a poorly-marked path follows a small ridge line to the east before winding through the vast scree that reaches Lac Blanc. At Lac Blanc, follow the cairns to join the GRP Tour du Mont Thabor, heading back down towards Chapelle Saint Michel and Névache.

The Col du Chardonnet is a classic in the Clarée region, offering a wide variety of landscapes, including the Chardonnet high altitude marsh. The pass offers a unique panorama of the Écrins mountain range and the Meije. Beginning with a pleasant climb through the woods, this variant of the GR57 crosses the old Laraux alpine chalets to reach the Chardonnet refuge nestled at the foot of the Queyrellin ridge at 2222 m altitude. Higher up, the vast Chardonnet altitude marsh marks the start of the final ascent to finally enjoy this unique view of the Écrins bar and the Meije. Park at the Fontcouverte parking lot, opposite the campsite of the same name. Enter the campsite and take the left-hand path leading to the refuge du Chardonnet. The path winds through a larch forest to reach the Laraux chalets, which continue to the right and take you to the Chardonnet refuge. From the refuge, continue to the torrent de Raisin, (once you've reached the torrent, you have two options: by going left, you can reach the Col du Raisin, at an altitude almost similar to that of the Col du Chardonnet). Cross a small bridge to take the GR 57 (red and white markings). The path leads into a combe, which you climb up to reach a flat area. The path leads to the magnificent Chardonnet alpine marsh. You'll find remnants of power poles that will lead you to the Col du Chardonnet.

This long loop linking the Col du Chardonnet to the Col des Béraudes below the tête de Cassille allows you to discover the remains of the Chardonnet mines while enjoying an incredible view of the Écrins massif, ending at the Lac des Béraudes. From the Fontcouverte parking lot, cross the campsite opposite to join a wide track on the left. The entrance to the trail leading to Le Chardonnet is indicated by a large sign at the entrance. The route rises gradually on a gravel path through a larch forest, following the GR57, and soon reaches the Laraux chalets. Near the last chalets, ignore the left-hand path and follow the GR57 up through the meadow and valley of the Bois des Alberges until you reach the Refuge du Chardonnet. Approx. 400 m after the refuge, ignore the left-hand path and cross the bridge over the Ruisseau du Raisin: the path then rises steadily to climb the rise overlooking the vast Chardonnet alpine marshland. The trail then skirts around the Chardonnet wetland to the left, then gradually rises up the mountainside following old electricity poles through alpine grassland to the pass. Just before the pass, take the right-hand path. This leads over the Lac de la Mine to the Col du Chardonnet Nord and the old mines. Once at the col, the path changes to the other side, passes under the remains of a mine, and continues for 2.4 km through a vast scree under the tête de Cassille to reach the Col des Béraudes. Under the Roche des Béraudes, at the fork in the road, take the right-hand path, which rises steeply to reach the Col des Béraudes. Cross the pass and start descending this imposing scree until you reach the Lac des Béraudes weir. At the weir, continue downhill towards the valley floor to reach the Pont du Moutet. Cross the Pont du Moutet to reach the Laval parking lot. Follow the D301T for just under 300 metres, then, once over the footbridge, leave the road to follow a path along the Ruisseau de Saint Jacques in the direction of the Clarée. The path soon comes to a small footbridge: cross the footbridge to rejoin the path on the right bank of the river. Follow this right-bank path (ignore the Roche Noire bridge) to reach the hamlet of Fontcouverte. The path joins the D301T near the Pont du Jadis: follow the asphalt road back to the starting point.

Lac Laramon is one of the jewels in the crown of the Hautes Alpes. Easy to access, it's a must-do if you want to discover the Clarée with your family. After a stop at the Ricou refuge, a panoramic view of the Cerces and Queyrellin ranges will reward your efforts. From the Fontcouverte parking lot, reach the footbridge opposite the Auberge de la Fruitière. The route starts just after the footbridge, indicated by the signs for Lac Laramon, Lac du Serpent and Refuge Ricou. This wide, stony path, with its moderately steep, constant gradient, takes you straight up to the Ricou refuge. After a first stop at the refuge Ricou, the surrounding panorama is already spectacular: the Cerces and Queyrellin massifs opposite give an impression of immensity. Just above the refuge, leave the track and take the well-marked path on the right. This gradually twists and turns for 15 minutes or so, until it comes to a crossroads where several itineraries meet: ignore the paths on either side and continue climbing straight ahead. The path quickly joins the torrent of Lac Laramon up to its spillway, where the full extent of the lake finally comes into view. Perched at an altitude of 2359 metres, this jewel of the Hautes Alpes allows you to appreciate the full beauty of the valley, and behind the Queyrellin massif, part of the Dôme des Écrins begins to come into view. The return journey takes the same route. You can continue your ascent towards Lac du Serpent (+ 40 min / + 100 m ascent) and even Pic du Lac Blanc.

Situated just below the Col du Chardonnet, this small lake takes its name from the old graphite mines, the remains of which can still be seen in the surrounding area. A hike that will take you through the magnificent Chardonnet valley. Park at the Fontcouverte parking lot, opposite the campsite of the same name. Enter the campsite and take the footpath on the left, signposted Refuge du Chardonnet. The path, which is a GR (long-distance footpath), winds through a larch forest to reach the Laraux chalets, which continue to the right and take you to the Chardonnet refuge. From the refuge, continue to the torrent de Raisin, (once you've reached the torrent, you have two options: by going left, you can reach the Col du Raisin, at an altitude almost similar to that of the Col du Chardonnet). Cross a small bridge to take the GR 57 (red and white markings). The path leads into a combe, which you climb up to reach a flat area. The path leads to the magnificent Chardonnet alpine marsh. You'll find the remains of power poles that will lead you to the Col du Chardonnet via the GR 57. 200 meters before the pass, the Lac de la Mine can be seen below. Continue up to the pass, then just before you reach it, turn right onto the narrow path overlooking Lac de la Mine, which leads to the remains of the old Chardonnet mines. Please note: The old Chardonnet mines are not secure. Do not enter the site.

Located just above Lac Laramon, Lac du Serpent offers an incredible panorama of the Écrins mountain range, with the Massif des Cerces and the Queyrellin in the background... welcome to the heart of the Clarée valley. From the Fontcouverte parking lot, take the footbridge opposite the Auberge de la Fruitière. The route starts just after the footbridge, indicated by the signs for Lac Laramon, Lac du Seprent and Refuge Ricou. This wide, stony path, with its moderately steep, constant gradient, takes you straight up to the Ricou refuge. After a first stop at the Ricou refuge, the surrounding panorama is already spectacular: the Cerces and Queyrellin massifs opposite give an impression of immensity. Just above the refuge, leave the track and take the well-marked path on the right. This gradually twists and turns for 15 minutes or so until it comes to a crossroads where several itineraries meet: ignore the paths on either side and continue climbing straight ahead. The path quickly joins the torrent of Lac Laramon up to its spillway, where the full extent of the lake finally comes into view. Perched at an altitude of 2359 metres, this jewel of the Hautes Alpes allows you to appreciate the full beauty of the valley, and behind the Queyrellin massif, part of the Dôme des Écrins begins to come into view. Follow the path around to the left of the lake, which then rises steadily and steadily: count 100 metres of ascent over a distance of 700 metres to reach the Lac du Serpent. Return by the same route. It's possible to continue the ascent as far as Les Gardioles, a formation of small lakes perched on a vast flat area, making it an ideal place to bivouac and take full advantage of the starry nights. ( + 235 m ascent from Lac du Serpent ). You can continue your ascent to the Pic du Lac Blanc, culminating at 2980 metres altitude (+500 metres ascent from Lac du Serpent).

This pretty, easy hike to the magnificent Buffère valley and pass follows the GR57 Tour de la Haute Clarée via the Buffère refuge. A view of part of the Écrins massif will quickly reward your efforts. This hike generally departs from Pont du Rately but you can also start from Névache - Ville haute : From Névache to the Col: approx. 3 hrs 30 mins. From Névache to the Buffère refuge: approx. 2 hrs. Pont du Rately to Col: 2h30. From the Chapelle Saint Anne / rocher de Lacou , you'll need to follow the asphalt Haute Vallée road for a few meters to reach the Pont du Rately. A sign indicates the Refuge de Buffère on the left: a stony track crosses the fields to reach the Pont du Rately. Cross the bridge to the right, then follow the GR 57 path marked in red and white (same route as to the refuge). After a steep climb of around 15 minutes, through a magnificent larch forest, you'll discover the hamlet of Le Serre and its ancient chalets, and you'll soon arrive at the refuge. Once you've passed the refuge, continue straight on towards the Col, following the GR path, for a further 1.5 hrs.

This magnificent loop on the GRP Tour du Mont Thabor combines several must-sees: the balcony trail with its breathtaking views, Lac Laramon, the Ricou refuge, the Fontcouverte waterfall and the trail along the right bank of the river... From the Lacou parking lot, head for Chapelle Sainte-Barbe, a few metres after Chapelle Notre-Dame de Bon Secours. The trailhead is just after Chapelle Sainte-Barbe, on the right, indicated by a yellow "Chemin de Ronde" sign. This little path twists and turns up a fairly steep slope, with a difference in altitude of around 350 metres. The Chalets de Biaune are soon visible on the right. Ignore the right-hand path and continue upwards until you reach the last bend, which marks the start of the balcony path. Here, the Chemin de Ronde stretches out like a balcony over 4 kilometers to reach Lac Laramon, and offers incredible views over the valley and all the peaks of the Cerces massif. It's a truly pleasant section, where the difference in altitude is barely noticeable (320 m of ascent and 115 m of descent). After 4 kilometers, a tiny lake appears on the right-hand side of the trail. Continue on, then at the fork, leave the GR and take the path on the right: the remaining 400 metres will take you directly to Lac Laramon. Cross the Lac Laramon spillway to begin the descent along the right bank of the stream. The path reaches a major fork: ignore the left and right paths, and continue downhill towards the Refuge de Ricou and the hamlet of Fontcouverte. At the Refuge de Ricou, continue downhill on the wide, stony track towards Fontcouverte. The track finally leads to the D301T and the hamlet of Fontcouverte: cross the bridge to reach the Auberge de la Fruitière. We recommend stopping at the Auberge's small fountain, then taking the path beneath the Auberge towards the Fontcouverte waterfall. This last part of the hike is the most verdant; between forests and summer cottages, this tiny dirt path winds along the right bank of the Clarée, amid a wide variety of lush flowers. The Fontcouverte waterfall is soon reached, followed by the chalets de la Meuille. Ignore the Pont de Lacha fork and continue along the same route. The path widens out a little, skirting the vast green plain of La Souchère and its only chalet, until you reach the Pont de la Souchère. A second time, ignore the bridge and continue along the path on the right bank. This crosses the small Basse Sausse lock and reaches the typical Basse Gardiole chalets perched on the rocks. Once past the chalets, the path crosses the small footbridge over the Gardiole stream and opens out onto the wide GR57 path leading to the Refuge de Buffère. Ignore the climb and follow this GR to reach the Pont du Rately. Cross the bridge and follow a stony track across the fields to reach the D301T and the starting point.

Culminating at an altitude of 3098 meters, the Pointe des Cerces is the emblematic summit of the Clarée. This wild and technical ascent in the heart of the Cerces massif and its lakes, offers a breathtaking 360° panorama that's well worth... From the Laval parking lot, take the wide, stony track heading towards the bottom of the Clarée valley (GR de Pays Tour du Mont Thabor), which overlooks the Clarée river on its left bank. Continue on this gently sloping trail (approx. 160 m ascent) for 2.8 km towards the Refuge des Drayères. When you reach the Pont de Pierre, ignore the right-hand path and take the left-hand path to the top of the refuges des Drayères. After the refuge des Drayères, the track becomes a small hiking trail, rising up on the left bank of the torrent, then turns into an elegant flat stone pavement that crosses a remarkable wetland to the Lac de la Clarée. This magnificent pavement is in fact an ancient Roman road linking the Clarée valley to the Maurienne. This small lake, perched at 2433 m, is the source of the river of the same name and sits between the Aiguille Noire and the Pointe des Banchets, overlooked on the right by the Seuil des Rochilles infantry fortress. A very short climb and a distance of some 300 metres brings you to the imposing Lac des Rochilles. The old Sardinian boundary marker (1823) lining the path delimited the Kingdom of France and the Duchy of Savoy, with the Fleur de Lys engraved on the French side and the Savoy Cross on the Sardinian side. Arriving at Lac Rond, leave the main itinerary to continue on the GR57 towards Col des Cerces, the path skirting the lake on the left, crossing a scree slope ending in the lake below Pointe des Banchets. Continue along the lake until you reach the Col des Cerces. Cross the Col des Cerces to its level. A fork appears on the left (2574 m): leave the GR57 for the path on the left, and enter the cirque. The path rises, under the Crête De Rochers Marions, then continues through vast scree to the summit. Return by the same route.

Small cozy alpine hut, nestled at an altitude of 2223 m in the gentle Clarée valley. It is located on a mound between larches, high steep walls and beautiful valleys with rounded shapes. Originality of the refuge: near the refuge, you can spend a night in a traditional Mongolian house: a yurt of about 20 square meters, provided with 5 beds with real duvets. Meals and toilets at the refuge. Atmosphere and comfort guaranteed! All the contrasting atmosphere of this beautiful Cerces massif is there.

In the valley of Buffère at 2076 m, open summer / winter, for a gourmet stopover, your hiker step or the base camp of your nature stay This former alpine chalet comfortably rehabilitated by Nadette and Claude Devalle is accessible on foot during Summer in 45 minutes from the nearest parking place and during Winter on skis or snowshoes in 2 hours from the village of Névache, Ville-Haute . It is equipped with 30 places in rooms from 2 to 6 people, bathrooms with hot showers, a library lounge area. Its cuisine is healthy and refined (fruits, vegetables, eggs, bread ... organic origin and / or from our Hautes Alpes county). In summer the very comfortable Chalet Marguianne offers 12 additional places with 5 rooms from 1 to 4 people. Nadette, Claude and their team welcome you in these chalets that will surprise you with the will to stay or come back. GTA - FFRP - Via Alpina

In the heart of the Haute Vallée de la Clarée, the “Marins des Cimes” event takes offshore racing sailors on a journey between the sea and the mountains! Vendée Globe, Transat J. Vabre, Mini... Majestic! The event was born from a meeting with two sailors at the Buffère refuge. The complementarity and similarity of the two offshore and mountain racing activities becomes obvious. This event aims to promote the promotion of ski touring, the meeting between Sailors and Mountaineers through the commitment of exceptional women on a human, environmental and sporting level... And finally, to contribute to the discovery of our alpins territories. The navigators, accompanied by their High Mountain guide, will go from refuge to refuge! Evening in Buffère with video projector to discover their atypical life on their boat...

Located in the magnificent Clarée valley in the Hautes-Alpes, the completely rebuilt Laval refuge offers a warm and comfortable welcome. Meije & Thomas, the janitors, and their team welcome you to the cosy atmosphere of the wooden chalet-style refuge. Winter access is by ski touring, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing or skating. Leave your car at the Ville Haute parking lot in Névache and take the summer road, which is closed at this time of year, or drive along the right bank of the Clarée for a more bucolic atmosphere. The refuges are often perceived as inaccessible and reserved for a more seasoned clientele, but the Laval refuge is an exception to the rule. In summer, you can come either by car to the parking lot of the same name some 300 m upstream from the refuge, or by shuttle bus, depending on the time of day and the season: Accueil Tourisme Névache. On the first floor, two small dormitories with single and double beds for 4 people, and two dormitories for 7 and 8 people with single or double beds equipped with sheets and comforters (bring your own sheets and comforter bags). On the first floor, sanitary facilities and hot showers (bring your own toiletries). In the dining room, which seats between 36 and 40, a beautiful Masse (Tulikivi) stove radiates a gentle warmth that you'll appreciate whatever the weather! For humid summer days or snowy winters, a dryer running on excess energy from the pico power station will dry your clothes and shoes in no time. Electricity is provided by a pico-power station fed by the Cula torrent, making the refuge completely self-sufficient. In this friendly environment, we'll let you enjoy simple, generous, high-quality cooking, using organic and local produce, so that young and old alike will be rested and refreshed before setting off again, backpacked, to explore the many hiking trails that this luminous Clarée valley has to offer. Total immersion in unspoilt mountain nature guaranteed. The summer refuge is : Your base camp, for touring Mont Thabor (GR57), touring the Cerces massif, hiking to discover the beauty of lakes Béraudes, Long, rond, and many more. A stopover for motorcyclists on the Route des Grandes Alpes A thirst-quenching, gourmet stopover for cyclists and mountain bikers, A rest area for donkey trekkers, who can enjoy the meadows beneath the refuge. A meeting point where you can simply enjoy the view from the terrace and take full advantage of nature.

Ski instructors and mountain guides Anne & Boris welcome you at the bottom of the Clarée valley. The refuge is ideally located in an area rich in lakes, at the start of a wide variety of itineraries. Friendly and comfortable: The atmosphere is warm and friendly. The refuge team welcomes you for a night, a stay, a meal or a snack. Warm up by the stove after your mountain outing and enjoy a moment of sharing or relaxation in the new lounge. A library and board games await you. In the bright and spacious dining room, you can enjoy a beautiful view of the valley floor. Each dormitory is equipped with cosy comforters, so a fitted sheet is all you need. There are also hot showers and a place to dry your shoes. The refuge belongs to the FFCAM. We can accommodate 64 people in dormitories of 4, 6 and 8 places. Whenever possible, we reserve a dormitory for the same group. The dining room and 4 dormitories for 32 people (with blankets) are at your disposal when you're not on guard duty. Please leave the refuge clean and pay for your night in the box inside the refuge. To facilitate our organization and the smooth running of the refuge, we ask you to book your half-board on line or by telephone during the seasons on +33 (0)4 92 21 36 01. Cuisine: We offer simple, healthy, home-cooked cuisine! Most of the products we use are organic or locally grown. If you wish, we can prepare snacks for your hikes the following day. Just let us know when you arrive at the refuge. All day long, we serve à la carte meals and offer the possibility of eating on the terrace in the sun or inside by the stove. In the evening, a communal meal is served in the dining room. For those with special dietary requirements, we'll do our best to accommodate. NEW YEAR'S EVE Come and enjoy the early winter powder at the refuge des Drayères. Whether you're ski touring or snowshoeing, it's ideally situated at the center of many easy itineraries. In a magical setting, you'll find the refuge in its coat of snow. We offer a convivial mountain meal, homemade mulled wine and a festive aperitif... Simplicity and sharing after a beautiful day in the mountains are part of the magic of life in a refuge during the winter season. Try the New Year's Eve experience at the Drayères refuge! For bookings, ensure your bed on our online reservation, deposit required: 10€ per person per night. For further information, please contact us by telephone on 06.45.74.07.93 Please do not hesitate to contact us for further information: Mail : refugedesdrayeres@gmail.com Phone : 04.92.21.36.01 Facebook : Gardien Refuge des Drayères

Terzo Alpini is a refuge located in the Vallée Étroite, at an altitude of 1780 m. It is part of the commune of Névache. The Vallée Etroite is part of the commune of Névache, and is a listed and protected site. Managed by Riccardo and Anna Novo, the refuge is open in summer from mid-June to mid-September, and in winter from mid-February to mid-April. It is also open out of season on weekends (booking required). For New Year's Eve, reservations by telephone only. Catering by prior arrangement. The refuge : Terzo Alpini welcomes up to 34 guests (20 in rooms and 14 in dormitories). The refuge has hot showers on every floor, summer and winter alike (hot showers cost €1). Both the small rooms and the dormitory are equipped with wooden bunk beds, making for a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The refuge comprises 2 rooms for 2 people, 2 rooms for 4 people, 1 room for 8 people and a dormitory for 14 people. Accommodation 1/2 board, picnic baskets on request. The cuisine: At Terzo Alpini, Italian tradition comes first! You can try Piedmontese starters such as anchovies au vert, beans in salad, petite tome, cold cuts, sweet and sour zucchinis and many other specialities. At Terzo Alpini, polenta has pride of place! It's put more than one exhausted hiker back on his feet! It's served with alpine cheeses, meat and sausage, or venison cooked by Riccardo. Of course, we also offer daily specials such as ossobuco, tajine and more... And for children, we have a special menu. The Vallée Étroite is the ideal location for a wide range of sporting activities: ski touring, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, hiking and horse-riding, mountain biking, climbing on the magnificent routes of the "Paroi des militaires"... Accessible on foot from Névache, Modane and Bardonecchia in summer, but also by car, it can only be reached by cross-country skiing, ski touring or snowshoeing in winter.

The "I Re Magi" refuge offers you calm, comfort and originality. Thanks to its family management, you'll feel right at home.

This wild route between lakes and scree leads to a summit where the mineral landscape becomes lunar and the exceptional panorama: Grandes Jorasses, Matterhorn, Great Casse ... One night at the shelter of Thabor allows to make the route in two stages. At the crossroads of Savoy, Hautes-Alpes and Italy, Mont-Thabor and its 3178m represents an exceptional belvedere over the entire Alpine massif. This wild route between lakes and scree leads to a summit where the mineral landscape becomes lunar and the panorama exceptional: Grandes Jorasses, Matterhorn, Grande Casse ... One night at the Thabor refuge allows you to make the route in two stages.

Refuge close to Notre-Dame of Snows.

Véronique and Jérôme FOUVET were beekeepers for nearly 15 years. Since 2021, they have concentrated exclusively on making honey-based products. They have created and developed a number of gourmet honey-based recipes, as well as establishing a range of beauty products. "We started beekeeping in 2007 and over the years have created and developed a number of recipes. Our specialities include pure honey gingerbread and energy bars for hikers. We also collect the propalis from the hives to make an alcoholate and a mosturizing cream. In addition, Veronique has now started making soap from olive oil enhanced with honey, propolis and beeswax. We really enjoy converting what the hive offers us into our own produce." Products : - Honey - Honey pain d’épices - Nougat - Honey jams - Honey vinegar - Honey cordial - Honey treats - Propolis - Spreads - Soaps - Herbal tea

The chapel is located in the hamlet of Foncouverte in Névache, accessible by car iduring Summer season, snow shoe or ski in Winter. The chapel has become an emblem of the Clarée Valley. Chapel closed to the public but the inside is visible through the wood grid This chapel would mark the proximity of a miraculous but hidden spring (Fontcouvert: Covered fountain) reputed to give back the joy of life. Classified historical Monument Since 1946, it stands proudly on its rounded sandstone rock, striated, worn by the ancient glacier of the Clarée. Founded in 1627 for the Maritan family, it still belongs to their descendants. Like many altitude chapels, its small volume is open, protected by a simple clear-way with beautiful wooden bars.

The magnificent Fontcouverte waterfall, 6 km after Névache, is a listed site by ministerial decree. It takes its name from a miraculous spring that was partly hidden and covered by a bush: the covered fountain.

This is the most important edifice in this Clarée valley. In the center of the main town of Névache district, the Church of St. Marcellin attracts attention, with its steeple "Roman-Lombard" drawing its arrow towards the sky and the summits. This edifice is a15th century gem. It was built on an old house in the XV century. The old tower of the castle became the steeple which received the arrow in 1633.

From the snow on the high peaks to the tap, there's just one step: catchment of the water sources. Located over 2,150 metres above sea level at the entrance to the valley of La Moulette, the upper catchment of La Moulette supplies the municipality of Le Monêtier-les-Bains with a proportion of its drinking water. With 164 thousand cubic metres of underground water abstracted every year, this is an important water source for the village. The water is naturally drinkable and meets the quality requirements in force for every parameter measured by health controls.

While the right bank of the Guisane Valley and the high summits of Les Ecrins are a dream for mountain climbers, the Massif des Cerces, with its tall limestone rocks on the left bank, is a paradise for rock climbers. A large number of sites for all levels have been opened here since the 1930s. The Tour Termier opened the way, soon followed by Roche Robert, Roche Colombe and the famous Aiguillette du Lauzet. Multi-pitch climbs, beginners’ sites or via ferrata (the site in Le Lauzet was one of the first in France) - there is something for everyone. In summer, some car parks are packed and you can continually hear the clicking sound of snap hooks!

L'Alpe du Lauzet on the edge of the Massif des Cerces is the favourite wintering place for a colony of Alpine ibex. In 1959, when there were only ten animals left in France (in Vanoise), six Alpine ibex, four males and two females, were reintroduced from Switzerland, first to Le Combeynot on the right bank of the Guisane, then to Les Cerces. These six individuals multiplied and the total population has now reached around 300. While their territory is restricted in winter to save as much energy as possible and make the most of the sunny slopes, they are scattered in summer over all the mountain range and as far as neighbouring groups that they have gradually blended in with.

L'Alpe du Lauzet is a mountain village at an altitude of 1,940 m, below the Aiguillette du Lauzet, which reaches 2,717 m, in the region of Monêtier-les-Bains. The village is aligned at mid-slope to avoid the avalanches that regularly fall into the bottom of the valley. The handful of houses were once used as summer pasture homes for the inhabitants of Le Lauzet in the Guisane valley. On the chapel door, a plaque recounts that five people were buried alive by an avalanche during the winter of 1892.

The habitat of Guisane valley is characterized by the small hamlets with character (Le Lauzet, Le Casset, etc.). Here, the small hamlet of Boussardes charms visitors with its houses with typical architecture squeezed against one another.

As you descend from the Col du Lautaret, Le Lauzet is the first hamlet of the municipality of Monêtier-les-Bains, lying at an altitude of 1,660 metres. It has retained its mountain character with more traditional houses than those in some other hamlets, its distance from the ski resort being a factor in this. It is built on the left-hand bank of the Guisane, sheltered from the avalanches crashing down from the Combeynot massif. Before the annexation of Savoie by France in 1860, the hamlet was also a customs post for travellers passing through the Col du Galibier, as evidenced by the seventeenth century barracks, now converted into a gîte.

On the right-hand bank of the Guisane, larch trees are everywhere. At the bottom of the slope, the forest is privately owned. The municipally-owned section of the forest starts a little further uphill. Both the private owners and the municipality fell a little of this hard and rot-proof wood, which has long been a valuable and versatile resource for local people.

Restaurant of typical high mountain pasture, located in Fontcouverte, a hamlet +1860m. Formerly a place where cheese was made, the Fruitière now operates as a restaurant, and is an unmissable stop in the higher Clarée valley. Anything from snacks to real meals, you will find housecooked, local food and moutain specialties. Open everyday in wintertime, summertime and All Saints' Day holidays. Booking in advance is recommanded for lunches, and necessary for dinners (dinners only in summertime). Access in wintertime is only on foot/snowshoe, or ski. 1h30 from Névache Ville-Haute. During the summer, the road is accessible either by car, bike or on foot. Please note that credit/debit cards are not accepted : cash or cheques only.

Traditional cuisine. The meal of the day is carefully cooked with local ingredients : lamb meat, wild foraging soups, gratins and savoury pies, the famous blueberry pie, crumbles... all of this in a welcoming and moutainy setting ! The Vialaou team welcomes you in the inn located just in front of the Saint Marcellin church in Ville-Haute, Névache ! 20-people capacity inside, 30-people capacity outside on the terrace Groups up to 20 people : please book in advance ! The bar is open all-day, you can also have snacks & sweet food anytime of the day

Bistrot, restaurant, tearoom on the banks of the Clarée: This bistrot de Pays lives up to its name. A warm welcome all year round, and family-style, gourmet, authentic cuisine with Mediterranean flavors. All homemade with local produce.

The not to be missed rest area, in front of the Grand Galibier, after a beautiful walk around the 4 lakes...

The not to be missed rest area, in front of the Grand Galibier, after a beautiful walk around the 4 lakes...

Authentic and friendly; fireside in winter; homemade pizzas and simple, well-balanced, homemade dishes and desserts; all set against a backdrop of board games of all kinds, darts, table tennis in summer, children's games, etc. Located on the edge of the Ecrins National Park, with views of snow-capped peaks and glaciers. Enjoy our seasonal meals, including raclettes, tartiflettes and homemade pizzas. And because we want to satisfy as many people as possible, we also offer vegan and gluten-free dishes like our famous Indian spinach Dahl. Families are welcome, too, with our menus adapted for the little ones. A south-facing wooden terrace by the skating rink in winter, and by the Romanche river in summer, makes for an excellent meal.

For a refreshing, gourmet break during your walk or bike ride, visit the Geneuil mountain pasture. Enjoy a Galibier beer, a delicious crêpe or an ice-cream sundae drenched in whipped cream: gourmet goodness and generosity are the order of the day during your stopover at l'Alpage, where the janitors of this little corner of paradise will be delighted to welcome you!

Located on the Massif du Crey du Quart, the Bistro d'altitude l'Edelweiss is accessible to skiers and pedestrians. We offer traditional cuisine for lunch and an after-ski atmosphere in the afternoon. We offer a menu with traditional dishes such as Bourguignon, Blanquette and daily suggestions.

The Petit Cerf team welcomes you to the bar-restaurant for a drink, aperitif, lunch, snack or dinner. Have a snack with your children (or without) after playing outside. In the cosy rooms, you can nibble on the coffee tables in the lounge or choose to eat at our large tables by the fireplace. The Le Petit Cerf's teamwill be on hand to listen to your every wish. What's for dinner? What shall we drink? Let's keep it simple and good... and very good indeed! A simple menu with quality, local, freshly-cooked products. Platters of cold meats and cheese, meals at all hours. Back a little late from skiing or biking? Feeling hungry? Don't worry, we'll be happy to prepare a simple dish for you. Aperonomy: Spritzs, good beers, a selected wine list and, of course, a whole range of softs for an aperitif by the fire or on the terrace, depending on the season.

Isabelle and Stéphane offer you a little catering: sarrazin pancakes, pancakes, ice cream, Savoyard and local specialties. From the terrace of the chalet, you can observe a magnificent panorama and observe the animals. The Vallon de Polset lies at an altitude of 1820 m, in the commune of Modane, in the Parc national de la Vanoise. In summer, the vallon is accessible either via the Route de l'Orgère (RD106, commune of Saint André), or via the Chemin d'Amodon (commune of Villarodin-Bourget) and the GR55, Pralognan-la-Vanoise-Modane route. In winter, accessible only on foot, snowshoes or ski touring (off-piste link from Val Thorens-3 Vallées resort).

Small cozy alpine hut, nestled at an altitude of 2223 m in the gentle Clarée valley. It is located on a mound between larches, high steep walls and beautiful valleys with rounded shapes. Originality of the refuge: near the refuge, you can spend a night in a traditional Mongolian house: a yurt of about 20 square meters, provided with 5 beds with real duvets. Meals and toilets at the refuge. Atmosphere and comfort guaranteed! All the contrasting atmosphere of this beautiful Cerces massif is there.

In the valley of Buffère at 2076 m, open summer / winter, for a gourmet stopover, your hiker step or the base camp of your nature stay This former alpine chalet comfortably rehabilitated by Nadette and Claude Devalle is accessible on foot during Summer in 45 minutes from the nearest parking place and during Winter on skis or snowshoes in 2 hours from the village of Névache, Ville-Haute . It is equipped with 30 places in rooms from 2 to 6 people, bathrooms with hot showers, a library lounge area. Its cuisine is healthy and refined (fruits, vegetables, eggs, bread ... organic origin and / or from our Hautes Alpes county). In summer the very comfortable Chalet Marguianne offers 12 additional places with 5 rooms from 1 to 4 people. Nadette, Claude and their team welcome you in these chalets that will surprise you with the will to stay or come back. GTA - FFRP - Via Alpina

Located in the magnificent Clarée valley in the Hautes-Alpes, the completely rebuilt Laval refuge offers a warm and comfortable welcome. Meije & Thomas, the janitors, and their team welcome you to the cosy atmosphere of the wooden chalet-style refuge. Winter access is by ski touring, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing or skating. Leave your car at the Ville Haute parking lot in Névache and take the summer road, which is closed at this time of year, or drive along the right bank of the Clarée for a more bucolic atmosphere. The refuges are often perceived as inaccessible and reserved for a more seasoned clientele, but the Laval refuge is an exception to the rule. In summer, you can come either by car to the parking lot of the same name some 300 m upstream from the refuge, or by shuttle bus, depending on the time of day and the season: Accueil Tourisme Névache. On the first floor, two small dormitories with single and double beds for 4 people, and two dormitories for 7 and 8 people with single or double beds equipped with sheets and comforters (bring your own sheets and comforter bags). On the first floor, sanitary facilities and hot showers (bring your own toiletries). In the dining room, which seats between 36 and 40, a beautiful Masse (Tulikivi) stove radiates a gentle warmth that you'll appreciate whatever the weather! For humid summer days or snowy winters, a dryer running on excess energy from the pico power station will dry your clothes and shoes in no time. Electricity is provided by a pico-power station fed by the Cula torrent, making the refuge completely self-sufficient. In this friendly environment, we'll let you enjoy simple, generous, high-quality cooking, using organic and local produce, so that young and old alike will be rested and refreshed before setting off again, backpacked, to explore the many hiking trails that this luminous Clarée valley has to offer. Total immersion in unspoilt mountain nature guaranteed. The summer refuge is : Your base camp, for touring Mont Thabor (GR57), touring the Cerces massif, hiking to discover the beauty of lakes Béraudes, Long, rond, and many more. A stopover for motorcyclists on the Route des Grandes Alpes A thirst-quenching, gourmet stopover for cyclists and mountain bikers, A rest area for donkey trekkers, who can enjoy the meadows beneath the refuge. A meeting point where you can simply enjoy the view from the terrace and take full advantage of nature.

Ski instructors and mountain guides Anne & Boris welcome you at the bottom of the Clarée valley. The refuge is ideally located in an area rich in lakes, at the start of a wide variety of itineraries. Friendly and comfortable: The atmosphere is warm and friendly. The refuge team welcomes you for a night, a stay, a meal or a snack. Warm up by the stove after your mountain outing and enjoy a moment of sharing or relaxation in the new lounge. A library and board games await you. In the bright and spacious dining room, you can enjoy a beautiful view of the valley floor. Each dormitory is equipped with cosy comforters, so a fitted sheet is all you need. There are also hot showers and a place to dry your shoes. The refuge belongs to the FFCAM. We can accommodate 64 people in dormitories of 4, 6 and 8 places. Whenever possible, we reserve a dormitory for the same group. The dining room and 4 dormitories for 32 people (with blankets) are at your disposal when you're not on guard duty. Please leave the refuge clean and pay for your night in the box inside the refuge. To facilitate our organization and the smooth running of the refuge, we ask you to book your half-board on line or by telephone during the seasons on +33 (0)4 92 21 36 01. Cuisine: We offer simple, healthy, home-cooked cuisine! Most of the products we use are organic or locally grown. If you wish, we can prepare snacks for your hikes the following day. Just let us know when you arrive at the refuge. All day long, we serve à la carte meals and offer the possibility of eating on the terrace in the sun or inside by the stove. In the evening, a communal meal is served in the dining room. For those with special dietary requirements, we'll do our best to accommodate. NEW YEAR'S EVE Come and enjoy the early winter powder at the refuge des Drayères. Whether you're ski touring or snowshoeing, it's ideally situated at the center of many easy itineraries. In a magical setting, you'll find the refuge in its coat of snow. We offer a convivial mountain meal, homemade mulled wine and a festive aperitif... Simplicity and sharing after a beautiful day in the mountains are part of the magic of life in a refuge during the winter season. Try the New Year's Eve experience at the Drayères refuge! For bookings, ensure your bed on our online reservation, deposit required: 10€ per person per night. For further information, please contact us by telephone on 06.45.74.07.93 Please do not hesitate to contact us for further information: Mail : refugedesdrayeres@gmail.com Phone : 04.92.21.36.01 Facebook : Gardien Refuge des Drayères

Terzo Alpini is a refuge located in the Vallée Étroite, at an altitude of 1780 m. It is part of the commune of Névache. The Vallée Etroite is part of the commune of Névache, and is a listed and protected site. Managed by Riccardo and Anna Novo, the refuge is open in summer from mid-June to mid-September, and in winter from mid-February to mid-April. It is also open out of season on weekends (booking required). For New Year's Eve, reservations by telephone only. Catering by prior arrangement. The refuge : Terzo Alpini welcomes up to 34 guests (20 in rooms and 14 in dormitories). The refuge has hot showers on every floor, summer and winter alike (hot showers cost €1). Both the small rooms and the dormitory are equipped with wooden bunk beds, making for a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The refuge comprises 2 rooms for 2 people, 2 rooms for 4 people, 1 room for 8 people and a dormitory for 14 people. Accommodation 1/2 board, picnic baskets on request. The cuisine: At Terzo Alpini, Italian tradition comes first! You can try Piedmontese starters such as anchovies au vert, beans in salad, petite tome, cold cuts, sweet and sour zucchinis and many other specialities. At Terzo Alpini, polenta has pride of place! It's put more than one exhausted hiker back on his feet! It's served with alpine cheeses, meat and sausage, or venison cooked by Riccardo. Of course, we also offer daily specials such as ossobuco, tajine and more... And for children, we have a special menu. The Vallée Étroite is the ideal location for a wide range of sporting activities: ski touring, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, hiking and horse-riding, mountain biking, climbing on the magnificent routes of the "Paroi des militaires"... Accessible on foot from Névache, Modane and Bardonecchia in summer, but also by car, it can only be reached by cross-country skiing, ski touring or snowshoeing in winter.

Terzo Alpini is a refuge located in the Narrow Valley, at 1780 m altitude. The Vallée Étroite is located in the Hautes-Alpes department, between Bardonecchia in Italy and Briançon on the French side. The refuge is located in the commune of Névache, a listed and protected site. In all seasons, the valley is the ideal place to practice many sporting activities: ski touring, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, hiking and horse riding, mountain biking, climbing on the magnificent routes of the "Paroi des militaires"... Accessible on foot from Névache, Modane and Bardonecchia in summer, but also by car (see access map), it can only be reached by cross-country skiing, hiking or snowshoeing in winter.

The "I Re Magi" refuge offers you calm, comfort and originality. Thanks to its family management, you'll feel right at home.

This wild route between lakes and scree leads to a summit where the mineral landscape becomes lunar and the exceptional panorama: Grandes Jorasses, Matterhorn, Great Casse ... One night at the shelter of Thabor allows to make the route in two stages. At the crossroads of Savoy, Hautes-Alpes and Italy, Mont-Thabor and its 3178m represents an exceptional belvedere over the entire Alpine massif. This wild route between lakes and scree leads to a summit where the mineral landscape becomes lunar and the panorama exceptional: Grandes Jorasses, Matterhorn, Grande Casse ... One night at the Thabor refuge allows you to make the route in two stages.

Refuge close to Notre-Dame of Snows.

Sylvie and Sebastian welcome you to their chalet refuge of Chamoissiere; old sheepfold fully restored with ecological and traditional materials ; located in the heart of the Alpine of Villar d'Arene, in a beautiful setting, away from the hustle and bustle. Located on the Alpe plan at 2106m, at the foot of the glaciers and at the gateway to the Ecrins National Park, this superb chalet-refuge will open its doors to you for a stay in the heart of nature; a beautiful escape in the heart of the mountains, to recharge your batteries and recharge your batteries as a family. Clean sheets required. This comfortable, small-capacity refuge welcomes you for a night or more, for a sporting or contemplative stay (or both) in a magnificent, peaceful setting, far from the wifi, stress and hassle of life down below! Accommodation in small rooms. The refuge has room for 20 people, a bathroom with 2 washbasins and 2 hot showers, and a large living/dining room with wood-burning stove. 220V electricity. Outdoor solar shower. Allow approx. 1h30 to 2h for the ascent along the path from Arsine (Villar d'Arène) and 1h30 along the Crevasses path from Col du Lautaret (halfway along this path, there is a somewhat vertiginous passage lasting 50m, but with a handrail on the path along the wall). A number of easy hikes can be discovered from the refuge, including - Sources de la Romanche - Lac de l'Etoile - Lac d'Arsine Refuge marked "Refuges ALPES".