Camping des Faures: adventure near Valjouffrey

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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

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 Electric Bike (VAE MTB) Via ferrata

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 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.

The Mas du Lac, built in 1763, is an old farmhouse that has kept the character and soul of the alpine buildings. It is with passion that this property has been renovated to welcome lovers of authenticity of nature and wide open spaces.

TEMPORARILY CLOSED Situated at an altitude of 1797 m, 2 hours' walk from the hamlet of Champhorrent on an easy path up the Muande torrent, this is a place where mountaineers, hikers and mountain people can meet and share their emotions. At the refuge you'll find everything you need for this special adventure, and the wardens are on hand 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.

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.

A groupsshelter where you can enjoy the pleasure of spending one night in the mountains or sleep for a night on you hiking trip, situated at 1200m.

This cable car links Venosc village to the 2 Alpes ski resort in only 8 minutes! The Venosc gondola lift allows pedestrians, mountain bikers, residents and workers to reach the resort.

2nd more important pilgrimage in France after Lourdes, this basilica is a memorable building in the religious architecture of Isère. Beyond gatherings of 15th August and 19th September, the site is worth the journey, from its 1800m height.

Agricultural specialists consider a meadow as natural if it has not been ploughed or fertilised over the last ten years. This is the case for those that you will see, surrounded by hedges, at the start of the hike. The meadows have an important variety of plant life and consequently attract multitudes of pollinating insects, including domesticated bees of course.

More than fifty years ago, a botany lover, who is now elderly, created a small alpine garden in the centre of the village. Although it is less well kept nowadays, it still presents a stunning array of colour and a collection of spectacular plants belonging to alpine flora.

In the 19th century, the hamlet of Valsenestre had roughly one hundred inhabitants. The main activity was breeding. In 1851, a marble quarry opened in the bottom of the valley on the way up to the Muzelle pass. This was an opportunity for the village. It welcomed the quarry workers and benefitted from an improved road. Marble production stopped in 1905. Up until 1926, children laughing and shouting could still be heard in the village. The school had about thirty pupils. It was closed a few years later and the last permanent inhabitant of the village left in 1948.

This is a shrub in the subalpine tier. It is less than one metre tall and grows in small groups on the ubac. At lower altitude, it may grow taller. You can recognise it from a distance through its characteristic shiny, silvery colour and its growth in circular beds. Adult leaves feel very silky on both sides.

A flock of sheep belonging to local farmers graze at the summit of the mountain pass near the Pic de Valsenestre. In summer these animals with their thick woolly coats can enjoy the shade of the willows that you can see just before arriving at the col (alt. 2220 m).

From the mountain pass, climb the little summit above to  better see  the landscape  which shows the  cirque de Valsenestre : on the left is the Signal du Lauvitel (2901m) and the Clapier du Perron (3169m), the mountain pass at  Muzelle (2613m) where the GR54 is. At this level you can really see a geological fault separating the Grandes Rousses which are granite from the Muzelle block in gneiss. On the right, the principal summits are the Roche de la Muzelle (3465 m), and the pointe Swan (3294m). Le col de Côte-Belle separates the  Pic de Valsenestre (2752m) on the left from the l’Aiguille des Marmes (3046 m) on the right.

The last section of the path allows access to the mountain pass has required numerous days of maintenance since its creation. In fact the unstable character of the soil associated with the steepness of the slope have made it necessary for the rangers to create wooden benches to contain the weight of the earth.. In Autumn 2012, it was decided to create a new section of the path by using part of a sheep track further East in the direction of the Marmes mountain pass. The work was carried out by a team creating 50 m per day during 26 days with pick-axes and courage. In total, it is a section measuring 1300 m which has been created, which makes the path less steep and much more stable.

In Latin léontopodium signifies the foot of the lion which is the general shape of the edelweiss. By looking at it closely, you realize that it is not one flower but a group of 5 to 10 flowers grouped in a flower head. The edelweiss is in the   astéracées family like dandelions. It is a white plant, milky and perennial growing in rocky alpine meadows at subalpine level up to 2900 m. It often mixes with the Alpine Aster. The emblem of numerous guides, it symbolizes the high mountains and represents strength in the language of flowers...

Véritable phénomène géologique, les « grandes orgues », appelées aussi « la grande bibliothèque », se sont dressées lors de la genèse des Alpes. Elles sont formées de minces feuilles de calcaire gris bleu et de marnes schisteuses tendres plus érodées. Un réseau de fissures perpendiculaires aux couches découpe les dalles en de remarquables colonnes.

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

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.

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.

A 13th century chateau in a park lined with two-centuries-old lime trees, where Louis XIII and Richelieu stayed in 1629. Gastronomic and regional cuisine. Ideal for receptions, seminars, weddings and family get-togethers.

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.

At the meeting point of the Champsaur and Valgaudemar valleys, our restaurant has been welcoming diners in a family setting for 30 years. 'Tourtons', 'ravioles' with honey, 'oreilles d'ânes', mountain charcuterie... All our specialities can be enjoyed in our restaurant or as a takeaway.

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

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

Traditional restaurant at any time. Local specialities (crozets) on order. For further information on access, please contact your service provider. From August 10 to September 1, 2024: Free shuttle service Bourg d'Oisans/St Christophe en Oisans bus station: departures at 7:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. St Christophe en Oisans/Bourg d'Oisans bus station: departures at 8:15 a.m. and 6:15 p.m. For more information, click on the Vénéon shuttle information sheet at the bottom of the page. The RD530 leading to the Vénéon valley is closed to vehicular traffic, from the intersection with the RD1091 (at Le Clapier d'Auris) to the hamlet of Les Étages (Saint-Christophe-en-Oisans), via Venosc (Les Deux Alpes). La Cordée is much more than a hotel restaurant. It's a place of welcome and conviviality, true to its mission and tradition since 1907. This historic and literary café offers year-round service, always with the pleasure of pleasing you!

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.

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.

Welcome in the heart of the "Ecrins" national park in the village of Valbonnais, place of nature and freedom. The campsite is on the bank of a small lake "Le plan d'eau". It is a quiet and restful place with a fantastic view

Hut (2130 m) guarded daily from mid-June to the first weekend of October and on weekends from late May. 68 places available when guarded, 9 seats during unguarded. 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 Mas du Lac, built in 1763, is an old farmhouse that has kept the character and soul of the alpine buildings. It is with passion that this property has been renovated to welcome lovers of authenticity of nature and wide open spaces.

Located at an altitude of 2268 m, a 3-hour walk from Villard Notre Dame, this south-facing unsupervised mountain hut sits above the Torrent du Vallon stream. It is on the path leading up to the top of Le Rochail. Authentic and rustic, this small 20 m² hut sleeps six in the most basic of comforts. It has 6 mattresses, blankets, a table and benches. A visitor's book is provided, where you can leave comments about your hike, your night and your experience! The Refuge des Sources can be a stop-off point on the way to the summit, during a long hike or simply because you would like to spend the night in the mountains.

The refuge is set on a magnificent belvedere, so you'll enjoy a gentle hike through unspoilt countryside. Around the refuge you'll find many activities such as hiking (tour du grand Cond, lac de la Mariande, lac du Salude, col de la Mariande...), mountaineering (tête de Lauranoure, col de la haute pisse...) and climbing (2 big routes in the pierroux, 3 routes around the Froide Pisse waterfall). Built in 1947, the refuge has retained the modesty of its origins over the decades, while reasonably adapting its comfort to today's requirements. In 2019, installation of a solar cooker Here, everything is homemade with local and seasonal products, some of which are organic. Oisans honey from Ecrin de Miel, Goodwin beers from Bourg-d'Oisans, meat and charcuterie from Ferme du Rochail, cheeses from Villard-Reculas and Ornon, flour from Trieves, eggs from Nord-Isere... Enjoy croziflette, donkey ears, blueberry tart and chocolate fondant. Various snacks available at all times. Half-board and picnics available. If you're planning to eat in a refuge, or even ask for a picnic, it's best to make a reservation in advance. The refuges have limited stocks, and in any case they are sized according to their capacity... While bivouacs are tolerated in the vicinity of the refuges (check with the wardens), campers are not counted in the stocks. Remember to call the wardens to book your meal if you wish to take advantage of the comfort of this service. TECHNICAL INFORMATION : Departure: Les Granges Difference in altitude: 535m Distance: 2.8 km Time : 1h45 ITINERARY: - From the hamlet of Les Granges, below Saint-Christophe-en-Oisans, descend to the Vénéon torrent. Then take the path that twists and turns at the foot of the Pisse waterfall to the Alpe du Pin flat, then to the Refuge (1h30 from Les Granges). MAPS AND TOPO OBP map n°5 (on sale at the tourist office): trail n°528 IGN Top 25 map n°3336 ET THINGS TO SEE ALONG THE WAY Froide Pisse waterfall THINGS TO KNOW The wardens offer very tasty snacks and can give you information on these routes from the Refuge.

Situated at an altitude of 2350 m, this large building constructed in 1957 was carried away by an avalanche two years later. A witness to this is a concrete slab below the refuge. Rebuilt in 1966, it was definitively extended in 1978 with a capacity of 54 places. A stage of the Tour de l'Oisans (GR 54), it welcomes hikers in the summer season and provides a shelter in the winter; it belongs to the Club Alpin Français.

TEMPORARILY CLOSED Situated at an altitude of 1797 m, 2 hours' walk from the hamlet of Champhorrent on an easy path up the Muande torrent, this is a place where mountaineers, hikers and mountain people can meet and share their emotions. At the refuge you'll find everything you need for this special adventure, and the wardens are on hand 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.

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.