Discovering Valjouffrey, Isère, Rhône-Alpes

A challenging hike that starts in a warm south facing atmosphere before changing to a wilder more alpine one.Start from either the car park at the exit of La Chalp or next to the fountain. Initially, follow directions for "Cascades des Roberts" via Rue du Barquier that lead straight to the top of the hamlet. On the right, at Cotes Vincent, take the Soreïou road that climbs straight up to the last houses of the hamlet. Leaving these hoses on the right, follow the footpath (yellow signs to the entrance of the Park). At the first crossroads, you can take a detour to the Roberts waterfall before coming back to the main route. The footpath that climbs up through the dry heaths of the south facing slopes offers regular viewpoints of the valley. It then goes through a pine forest before shifting to the other slope and into a spruce forest. At the end of the forest, the footpath continues under a rocky ledge that blocks the entry to the valley and bypasses it to the left. After the ledge, the footpath ends at the bottom of the valley. The return trip will be by the same path.

The Valsenestre Organs are a geological curiosity, the high point of trails that also offer a remarkable panorama from the col over the Valsenestre corrie and, on the other side, the Font Turbat valley.From the village of Valsenestre, go up the track alongside the Béranger torrent, past the limits of the National Park and you arrive at the Les Touches bridge. Continue as far as a fork and follow the path to the right. The path enters a small wood of resinous trees, then runs alongside the stream at the bottom of the gorge before finally moving away to the left as it rises in altitude. Here, you can see the torrential corrective work (wooden dams) conducted by the RTM restoration services. Continue upwards along a winding path through the forest. On the way, you will come across a fairly rare plant, the pleurospermum austriacum. Cross the high grassland, with a whole host of plants, including the aconitum variegatum and the achillea macrophylla. A little higher, you will see the Alpine columbine, after which the low-lying Alpine grass gradually replaces the forest. Continue up to the Valsenestre Organs. Through wide loops, you arrive at the mountain pass to see a very fine panorama. Follow the same route on the way back. The descent is also possible towards Le Désert en Valjouffrey.

Between mountain cliffs and grassy plateaux, the Valsenestre valley is a favourite spot for rock-climbers.From the village of Valsenestre, after the stopover gîte, follow the path to the left. It heads due north through a few bends over fairly low-lying vegetation. From here, you can see the Béranger valley, before you arrive at a large plateau (Le Clos), where you cross the torrent over a small footbridge. From here on, in summer, you can see sheep grazing in the mountain pastures. Follow the valley along a winding path around a large rocky bar to arrive at the Valsenestre valley. Here there is a shepherd’s cabin where you can watch the chamois and Alpine ibex that are attracted by the salt lick put out for the sheep. Behind the cabin, you can see a waterfall that is the source for the stream.The peaks surrounding this valley reach the high point of 3126 m at the Pic du Clapier du Peyron. To its left are the Brèche de Valsenestre 2,598 m, the Brèche du Lauvitel 2,855 m and lastly the Pas de l'Aiguille 2,354 m. To its right, the Col and the Tête de Ramu (2,760 m).Take the same route on the way back.

One of the most prestigious legs of the GR54 is the mineral environment characteristic of the high alpine valleys.From the Valsenestre car park, walk up the forestry track that heads east. Two footbridges enable you to cross the stream in the forest, made up essentially of conifers (pine, spruce, larch) that encloses a few odd meadows that are still mowed. Higher up, at an altitude of 1492 m, turn left to reach the edge of the forest that will give a view of a vast rock fall zone that is partially vegetated. Once you have arrived at Les Cantines mountain hut, the footpath climbs significantly on the steep slope that is grazed by sheep in the summer. On the opposite slope, you will be able to see the old footpath that climbs in tight bends to reach the hut that is cut out of the marble. You can see the entrance. Half-way, you will see the pastoral hut of Ralu on the left. The last stretch, towards 2350 m, is very steep and you will walk around many bends to cross the shale. From afar, it looks like and insurmountable wall, but in fact the footpath, which is well-maintained, makes it possible to reach the pass at 2613 m in altitude Follow the same route in the opposite direction for the return trip.

The pastel green colour of the lake is in contrast with the dark rock around it. The immaculate white quiffs of the cotton grass complete a unique picture.Go through the hamlet of Valsenestre and turn left after the chapel. Take the footpath that heads West, cross the footbridge over the Rif and continue on the overhang above the Béranger valley, towards the Combe Guyon valley. After a steep climb, cross the footbridge over the Fayolle stream and continue on the right bank. After a few bends through the grass and a long upward crossing, you will reach the Combe Guyon pastoral hut (water source). Continue up the bottom of the valley until you reach 2082 m in altitude, cross the stream and follow the large bend that will take you above the rocky ledges that circle it. You will soon arrive at the Labarre Lake. Return to Valsenestre by the same route.  

A hike with the colours of the larch, taking you to the small hanging valley of Combe Oursière.From the car park, take the track up to the Béranger valley as far as the edge of the Ecrins Park. At the National Park entrance panel is a place where tree trunks are kept, which is the starting point for a path running parallel with the track. Follow the path for about a hundred metres, then take the right-hand fork to cross Bot wood. The path runs under a rocky bar and twists and turns its way up to the Draire river gorge. The landscape then opens up, the forest giving way little by little to more isolated trees and lower-lying vegetation. At the crossroads with the Echarennes valley, turn right onto the path taking you up to the top of the Combe Oursière valley. After the half-barrel cabin, you can continue on across the valley along a small path that keeps to the same level. The path leads to the panorama over Pré Chrétien. You follow the same route on the way back.

A route through the mountain valley of La Bonne through low-lying, sub-Alpine vegetation: juniper bushes, heather, rhododendrons...From the car park at the entrance of Le Désert-en-Valjouffrey, cross the village, heading east. Cut across the GR 54, by crossing the stream of La Laisse - it leads to the left to Côte Belle and to the right to Col de la Vaurze. Follow the path on the right bank of La Bonne which leads you to the entrance of the Ecrins National Park. The entrance to this protected area is shown by three information panels. After crossing a footbridge near the Pisse waterfall, continue along the rising path, still following the bottom of the valley through fairly low-lying vegetation. You arrive at the Châtellerat cabin. Come back the same way.

The ascent to Basse-Pisse arrives at the sublime view over the Font Turbat valley.From the car park, walk up the road. At the crossroads in the village, turn right. At the intersection, cross the GR54, which goes down to the right (Col de la Vaurze) and the path rising to the left (Col de Côte Belle, Valsenestre) and take the path opposite, across the bridge. At the fork, continue along the dirt road opposite. You enter the Parc des Ecrins and follow the path along the Bonne torrent. Cross the pastoral barrier. You pass the foot of the Pisse waterfall and cross a footbridge over the torrent of the same name. From the Pisse waterfall, continue for about 8 minutes as far as a signpost to Basse Pisse on the left.The route first follows an overgrown scree then runs through a small wood of mountain pine, rowan, birch and a large number of hazel trees. Last, we arrive at some ruins and a former hay meadow looking down on the Font Turbat valley. Follow the same route on the way back.

This hike ascends a magnificent valley shaped by the glaciers and ends at the refuge at the North-West face of the Olan... From the car park situated at the entrance of Désert-en-Valjouffrey, cross the village taking the direction to the East. Intersect the GR 54, by crossing the stream at Laisse: on the left it gives access to the Côte Belle mountain pass and on the right to the Vaurze mountain pass. Take the wide path along the prairie and on the right bank of the Bonne which gives access to the gates of the Ecrins National Park (information signposts). Above the Cascade de la Pisse, continue on the track, which goes up always following the bottom of the valley amongst quite short vegetation which is typical in the rocks... Around the bend in the track, the summit of the Olan appears. Pass close to the Châtellerat cabin. Continue towards the Font Turbat refuge. Return using the same itinerary. 

This family trail is a chance to admire the untamed mountains in complete safety and to feel all the force of the natural elements.From the car park at the entrance of Le Désert-en-Valjouffrey, cross the village, heading east. Cut across the GR 54, by crossing the stream of La Laisse - it leads to the left to Côte Belle and to the right to Col de la Vaurze. Follow the wide path alongside the meadow and along the right bank of La Bonne, leading you to the entrance of the Ecrins National Park (information panel). When you arrive at the Pisse waterfall, come back along the same route. To continue, take a look at the route to the Font Turbat refuge.

Our gîte is located at the start of many hikes and is one of the stops on the GR54 tour of the Oisans and the Écrins. You have the option to rest at our gîte before continuing your journey to the next peaks. The gîte is also accessible by road. Located in the heart of the traditional village of Valsenestre, in the commune of Valjouffrey, the gîte can accommodate up to 40 people, divided into 4 dormitories. At the start of many hiking trails, notably the route to the Grand Tour of the Écrins, it’s the perfect spot for a well-deserved break under the linden (tilleul) trees. Breakfast is served from 6:00 to 8:00 a.m. Lunch, made with local products, is available from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. Desserts, afternoon snacks, and drinks are served throughout the afternoon. Shared dinner served from 7:00 p.m. (beef bourguignon, veal stew, lasagna, soups). All dietary preferences are welcome! Continuous snack and supply service (freshly sliced bread, cured sausages, cheeses, etc.). Free Wi-Fi available. We welcome our guests with warmth and good humor to come enjoy the peace and quiet of this mountain village, in the shade of the linden tree, while admiring the waterfall and the surrounding mountain range. A friendly atmosphere is guaranteed, with meals carefully prepared using local products, including goat cheese, lamb, and charcuterie from the commune. Booking available through our website (no fees or deposits required).

The gîte opend in july 2012. A total capacity of 24 persons, 4 roomes for couple et 4 rooms for 4 persons. Half pension or only the night, meal for the hiker, picknic. Situated in the national park of the Ecrins. 5 rooms with double beds and private bathrooms. The restaurant is open to everyone for lunch and afternoon snacks.

Distillery "La Salettina" since 1961 in the birthplace of Maximin Giraud (one of the children who saw the virgin 1846). Liquor of Génépi of Alpes macerated minimum 3 years and distilled. Material used for more than 100 years. Distillery "La Salettina" since 1961 in the birthplace of Maximin Giraud the shepherd having had the revelation of Our Lady of Salette. Liquor la Salettina recipe from 1865 of Maximin Giraud. Liquor of Génépi des Alpes IGP (Protected Geographical Indication) macerated for at least 3 years and Liquor of Génépi des Alpes IGP distilled, liquors of vulnerable plant, Hyssop plant, Raspberry, wild blackberries, wild blueberries. You will discover, during your visit, a workshop and the daily activity of a liquorist. In this cellar where centenarian material is always used, the manufacture of liqueurs and aperitifs will be explained to you, from the collection of the plants until the bottling. You will also find in our shop carefully selected territory products. Free tours and tastings. Schedule 7 days a week from mid April to mid October. Opening and visit on request from mid-October to mid-April. Groups are welcome by making an appointment at 04 76 30 05 02

The ascent to the refuge from Villard Loubière has become a great hiking classic. Small dormitories with duvets, convivial dining room, hot showers and large equipped terraces. A stop on the GR54 footpath that should not be missed. Ideal starting point for the Pic de Turbat, with 3000m of easy access. A stop on the Tour de l'Oisans (GR54 footpath) that should not be missed. Snacks and refreshments possible. Access in 3 hours; elevation: 900 metres.

Provider of sports and nautical activities at Lac du Sautet. The activities are offered for hire and / or supervision by instructor: Sailing (catamaran, dinghy ...) Sailboard Stand Up Paddle Canoe Kayak Electric boat (without license) Pedalo Electric Stand Up Paddle Via ferrata

In a wonderfull place, in the heart of the National Ecrins Park... Fish in a mountain lake Please note: this site is located in the heart of a French National Park and is subject to specific regulations. This is an exceptional area, and as such is subject to specific regulations. We invite you to adopt the right reflexes when you come to protect these treasures. To fish in Lac Lauvitel, you need an Isère fishing permit and a special fishing card for the lake.

In an old house which was the forge of Les Payas, the musuem is about the old time life and important events of the history.

We invite you to relax in our small rustic-chic cottage with its private terrace. This studio-gîte offers a queen-size double bed and a 120cm sofa bed for 1 adult or child, a fully equipped kitchen, a shower room, a separate toilet, a terrace, and garden furniture with pool and lake views. Private entrance. Le Mas du Lac, built in 1763, is a former farmhouse that has retained the character and soul of Alpine buildings. This property has been lovingly renovated to welcome lovers of authentic nature and wide open spaces.

Located at 1797 m altitude, a 2-hour walk from the hamlet of Champhorent on an easy family trail up the Muande torrent. This is a place where mountaineers, hikers and mountain people can share their emotions. At the refuge you'll find everything you need for this special adventure, and the wardens are there to advise, inform and guide you in your choice of itinerary. At the foot of accessible glaciers and lakes (la Muande, les Rouies, les Sellettes, les Bêches, les Fétoules...), fauna, flora and herds are waiting for you, and everyone, from the youngest to the oldest, from the contemplative to the adventurous, from the climber to the walker, will find what they're looking for. You'll be able to sample organic and local produce, all in a creative and colorful cuisine. Every summer, a program of events is organized to offer concerts, shows and evening events for all to enjoy. Don't hesitate to follow our news online! Respect the legislation of the Parc National des Ecrins. The refuge will close for two years from July 15, 2025. This will give us the time we need to carry out a complete refurbishment that will enable us to welcome you even better.

Perched on an Alpine prairie, at the frontier with the high mountains, the Olan refuge provides a unique panorama on La Chapelle-en-Valgaudemar, the prestigious Olan cirque, the Cime du Vallon... A stopover for mountaineers and hikers: a mountain road to the Refuge des Souffles. Shared room and kitchen upstairs, running water and fountain. Meals by reservation. Access from La Chapelle-en-Valgaudemar in 4 hours; elevation: 1245 metres.

Along the footpath after the crossing towards the waterfall, the old fruit trees are covered in mistletoe. Mistletoe is a surprising plant species in many ways. It is "hemiparasitic", which means it partly parasites its host (in this case fruit trees). These plants absorb water and nutrients from the host plant that it turns into sugars and protein through photosynthesis. However, there is still a lot to learn about the plant that is probably more "parasiting" than we think. Its latin name Viscum album means "glue" because of the stickiness of its berries.

For those who are interested in local heritage, you can make a detour via the Roberts waterfall (10 mins there and back). Downstream, there is an imposing dry stone dike built to protect the hamlet from the stream flooding. Its origin is unknown. Made of huge blocks of granite, it was restored by the voluntary association "Mémoire battante" in 2011 with help from craftspeople belonging to "Pierres sèches, savoir-faire et patrimoine" (Dry stones, know-how and heritage) A canal (béal) bordered with flagstones starts at the foot of the waterfall and ends at the dike.

Common heather grows on acidic ground, which has sunlight and is well-drained. Here it can be found in the sunny dry heaths of the south facing slope of La Chalp. “La callune” in French gets its name from the Greek kallynein, which means "sweep" In the past its stems were used to make brooms. Heather has fungus at its roots (they are mycorrhized) to help absorb mineral elements from the soil. This combination is particularly useful in such a poor, acidic terrain.

This bush also likes the dry sunny slopes. It can be distinguished from other junipers by its single white line on the upper side of its thorns. Its berries are well known as seasoning in sauerkraut and they have digestive qualities in pâtés. Previously these berries were crunched on during cold spells. Mistle thrushes that thrive in the Autumn on this slope, also apppreciate them.

At 1260 m in altitude, a viewpoint overlooks the valley, the hamlet of La Chalp and its hedged surroundings. In the plain, a network of hedges still border the tracks and delimit agricultural plots. Meadows are generally mowed and are of great floristic diversity. The Tralivernets reed bed, which is also visible from this viewpoint, is home to the marsh warbler: a bird that likes the tall vegetation that grows along the wetlands and streams.

The dry grassland on these southern slopes are home to a few orchids including the early-purple orchid and the burnt orchid. Orchids are a complex family whose species often change name and classification, as was recently the case with the burnt orchid that has joined the Neotinea group. It is called 'burnt' due to the dark crimson colour at the top of the flower. Further away in the forest on the northern side, forest species such as broad-leaved helleborine and creeping lady's tresses are to be found.

You will need to put your nose close to the ground on old tree stumps, or where there are rotting branches in order to see this minute moss. It is considered as rare and as part of natural heritage. Prospection by the Ecrins National Park wardens is therefore under way. A protocol to determine the threshold for detection of the species has been put in place by statisticians. From April on, it is possible to detect it due to its “sporophytes”, small shiny green capsules that enclose the spores. In the Valbonnais sector, shield moss is very much present in the forests of north facing slopes.

In the spruce forest, the black woodpecker has paid a visit to old rotting tree trunks. It has drilled holes, in search of bark beetles or carpenter ants that it feeds on. This odd black bird with a red crown is the biggest woodpecker in the Alps. It likes forests with large trees that are spaced out and carves out its dwelling high in the trunks. It incessantly hammers away at tree trunks to seduce a female, defend its territory or even search for food. Once they are abandoned, these dwelling become home to other lodgers such as boreal owls, bees, martens…

This giant thistle catches the walker’s eye as it can grow up to a metre high. It does not prick and its large deep pink flowers have pearly borders. This is a nationally protected plant and only subsists in the Alpine arc. It is adapted to siliceous grounds. It can be seen here at the beginning of the summer along the footpath at the edge of the spruce forest.

This high, perched valley is ideal for the peace and quiet that chamois need. Groups of females with their kids, known as “chevrées” often visit the area. The Ecrins National Park is monitoring populations of chamois. Three times as year, with the aid of a telescope, the Park wardens watch over roughly a hundred animals to keep a check on their health. At the same time, in collaboration with the Hautes Alpes Hunting Federation, blood samples are taken from chamois in the selected area to check for possible illness.

Since 1965, the Gueydan family has been welcoming diners to the restaurant where culinary tradition is the watchword. Cuisine based on fresh regional produce, bringing out all the flavours of yesteryear. Specialities: 'ravioles' in honey, 'donkey's ears', mountain charcuterie, lamb, salted goat, roast ham, farmhouse cheeses... and homemade cakes! By reservation.

A bistro-style bar with a friendly atmosphere. Snacks on reservation, and ice cream in summer.

Discover a simple cuisine handed down from mother to daughter, and enjoy the slow-cooked dishes that need time to bring out all their flavour. Traditional specialities, including 'donkey's ears', 'tourtons', 'ravioles', pies and goat pot-au-feu.

Make the most of a simple break with a warm and pleasant welcome on the Route Napoléon, in the midst of the mountains. Family cuisine with wood-fired pizzas. Lunch specials and à la carte dishes.

Dishes made with respect for authenticity and the tradition of the region: 'donkey's ears', 'ravioles', 'tourtons', flouzons, beef stew, homemade terrine, gratin dauphinois and homemade desserts. Since all the dishes are made with farm produce, you need to reserve at least 48 hours beforehand so that we can pick and prepare all the ingredients.

At our restaurant, we invite you to discover our regional and gastronomic menus, the Chef's specialities (duck terrines, 'ravioles' gratin, etc). Set menus from €19 to €32 and children's menu at €10.

Les Glaciers offers snacks such as crispy chicken, tourtons and ravioles, and camembert croquettes.

Local specialities, traditional cuisine, daily specials. Tourtons for sale.

Homemade cuisine, renewed at each meal, where the blend of aromas and savours from here and elsewhere always creates a new alchemy. Recipes inspired by traditional local dishes, reviving the forgotten recipes of our grandmothers...

Take away beers and drinks. The tasting and the sale are done on the spot as well as the consumption on the terrace: homemade beers, homemade aperitif drinks, homemade lemonade, homemade syrups, wines. In summer, you can enhance your appetisers with local products or artisanal icecreams. You can also homemade dishes.

Mountain campsite in an exceptional and natural setting, favourable for hiking and discovering the Ecrins National Park. This campsite will welcome you for a restful and refreshing stopover at the foot of the mountains. A warm and friendly atmosphere. Come and enjoy a wide range of activities around the campsite: cycling, hiking, swimming, yoga, and herbalism workshops... You’ll be able to taste Cléa’s delicious pizzas, Tania and Pato’s generous plates, and of course a variety of tasty local dishes! All accompanied by a refreshing farmhouse beer or a flavorful fruit juice from the Trièves region. Campfires are allowed outside of drought periods. A special program of small concerts, documentary film screenings, and themed evenings has been planned just for you! Check our Facebook page and website regularly to stay up to date with our events. The Bonne River runs through the campsite, perfect for cooling off. The Valbonnais family lake is just 15 minutes away by car. There’s a market every Friday morning in the small village of Entraigues. You’ll find organic bread in the hamlet of Gragnolet, and goat cheeses and mountain herbal products in the hamlet of Le Désert in Valjouffrey. No reservations needed for camping pitches. Two caravans, a yurt, an equipped tent, and a gypsy-style wagon are available for rent by reservation.

Our gîte is designed for those who wish to spend their holidays in self-catering mode, with family or friends, in the authentic setting of Valsenestre. The building is well-suited for family stays or trips with friends. Gîte that can accommodate up to 19 people.

Our gîte is located at the start of many hikes and is one of the stops on the GR54 tour of the Oisans and the Écrins. You have the option to rest at our gîte before continuing your journey to the next peaks. The gîte is also accessible by road. Located in the heart of the traditional village of Valsenestre, in the commune of Valjouffrey, the gîte can accommodate up to 40 people, divided into 4 dormitories. At the start of many hiking trails, notably the route to the Grand Tour of the Écrins, it’s the perfect spot for a well-deserved break under the linden (tilleul) trees. Breakfast is served from 6:00 to 8:00 a.m. Lunch, made with local products, is available from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. Desserts, afternoon snacks, and drinks are served throughout the afternoon. Shared dinner served from 7:00 p.m. (beef bourguignon, veal stew, lasagna, soups). All dietary preferences are welcome! Continuous snack and supply service (freshly sliced bread, cured sausages, cheeses, etc.). Free Wi-Fi available. We welcome our guests with warmth and good humor to come enjoy the peace and quiet of this mountain village, in the shade of the linden tree, while admiring the waterfall and the surrounding mountain range. A friendly atmosphere is guaranteed, with meals carefully prepared using local products, including goat cheese, lamb, and charcuterie from the commune. Booking available through our website (no fees or deposits required).

The gîte opend in july 2012. A total capacity of 24 persons, 4 roomes for couple et 4 rooms for 4 persons. Half pension or only the night, meal for the hiker, picknic. Situated in the national park of the Ecrins. 5 rooms with double beds and private bathrooms. The restaurant is open to everyone for lunch and afternoon snacks.

The Souffles mountain refuge is managed by the CAF (French Alpine Club).  A keeper is present from June to September. Here you have the opportunity to get something to eat whilst chatting with a mountain professional or spend a night at high altitude if you prefer. This is a good way to split the itinerary in two.

The Souffles mountain refuge is managed by the CAF (French Alpine Club).  A keeper is present from June to September. Here you have the opportunity to get something to eat whilst chatting with a mountain professional or spend a night at high altitude if you prefer. This is a good way to split the itinerary in two.

The ascent to the refuge from Villard Loubière has become a great hiking classic. Small dormitories with duvets, convivial dining room, hot showers and large equipped terraces. A stop on the GR54 footpath that should not be missed. Ideal starting point for the Pic de Turbat, with 3000m of easy access. A stop on the Tour de l'Oisans (GR54 footpath) that should not be missed. Snacks and refreshments possible. Access in 3 hours; elevation: 900 metres.

In 1908, Châtellerat pastoral cabin was hastily built by the community of Valjouffrey. Destroyed several times in avalanches, is still sheltered numerous mountaineers. It was rebuilt in 1921 in a less exposed place and already ideas about a « real » refuge were growing.

Hut (2130 m) guarded daily from mid-June to the first weekend of October and on weekends from late May. 58 places available. Access in 4 hours from l'Alleau parking (934 m) in Venosc. From this Hamlet, take direction "Refuge de la Muzelle" after the small bridge. Follow the winding path leading to the ruins of Pleney. The path continues near the torrent until "Clot du Stella". Cross the bridge and follow "Ardoisières", then "Les marches" before you arrive at the lake. . IGN: AND 3336. Trail No. 509 OBP. Bookings: contact the telephone number given, from April onwards.

The bottom of the valley comes up to the rock wall at Muzelle, the pic du Clapier du Peyron and the head of the Muraillette. The modern history of this place is marked by mountaineering. It was on the 2nd July 1875 that Coolidge guided by  Almer father and son opened the normal way to Roche de la Muzelle by the East North East face and  the North-East ridge.. At this time, even if a pastoral cabin was used by the mountaineers the bivouac was still often used in the Muzelle valley. In 1967, it was in the rocky cirque that the community built the refuge on the shore of Muzelle lake.