• Sport

68 - The Refuge of Vallonbrun

Start out with an approach hike on a sunny slope dotted with rocks and sparse vegetation. Step into Vanoise National Park with this unforgettable ascent to a mountain refuge. The wide, open spaces seem to spread welcoming arms out to you.

Sport 68 - The Refuge of Vallonbrun Val-Cenis

About

Departing from Val-Cenis (73500)
Average length : 02h30
Total elevation gain : 550m
Distance : 6.7km
Signed walking trail
Animals not allowed

You may be wondering why the lower part of your itinerary appeals to via ferrata enthusiasts. As soon as you step onto the path, the ridges start to unfold before your watchful eyes. This is a dream spot for climbing activities. The highlight of your ascent takes you through rhododendrons, wild blueberry bushes, and steppe moorland. You're in a marmots' paradise and they're keeping a close eye on you. Skipping between burrows incessantly, they incite you to often stop and watch them, so that the ascent feels like no effort at all. When the snow melts, the mountain echoes with the sound of torrents. Keep your eyes peeled and you might spot a few chamois coming down to find food, when the high-altitude cirques are still adorned with snow. As you pass the charming St-Antoine chapel, it seems to celebrate your arrival. A few steps more and you can treat yourself to a delicious food stop at Vallonbrun refuge. Allow yourself to dream of a multi-day adventure. Maybe next time?

Way and back
Total elevation gain : 550m
Altitude max : 2290m

Signs

Departmental yellow markup

Difficult passages

A few stream crossings. Presence of snowfields at the start of the season.

Map references

Map and booklet "Walks and Hikes Haute Maurienne Vanoise" (sold for € 10 at the Tourist Office)

Topoguides references

Orange route n°68

Further informations

Rock, Stone, Ground

Prices

Free access.

Reception

Animals not allowed
Languages spoken : French
Languages of documentation : French
Not adapted to strollers

Period of practice

From 01/06 to 15/10.

Subject to favorable snow and weather conditions.

Access

Le Collet de la Madeleine Lanslevillard 73480 Val-Cenis
Departing from : Val-Cenis (73500)
Latitude : 45.302668 - Longitude : 6.94895

Park at the collar of the Col de la Madeleine.

More informations

Information update on 11/03/2024 by Communauté de communes Haute Maurienne Vanoise