Advanced Tour de Vallaisonnay for Elevation Enthusiasts

This adventure begins at the Refuge de Rosuel with a long, steady ascent to the high alpine terrain of the Vanoise. Heading southwest alongside the Ponturin stream, the trail then veers uphill through wooded slopes until it reaches the expansive alpine basin of the Plan de la Plagne area.

As the valley opens up, you will find yourself surrounded by towering peaks and sweeping alpine vistas. Overlooking the serene Lac de la Plagne, the surrounding mountains are reflected in the water, making it the perfect place for a short break. Continue past Plan de la Grassaz and over more rugged terrain as the trail gradually ascends into the glacial landscape of the Vanoise range.

The final ascent to the Refuge du Col du Palet (2,600 m) takes you through rocky terrain and past the sparkling Lac du Grattaleu. As you approach the refuge, the landscape becomes starker and more dramatic, truly embodying the alpine environment. Spend the night at this high-altitude hut and take in the breathtaking views. Day one complete!

This stage features a challenging technical descent, followed by a scenic traverse and a short climb to the Refuge de Plaisance. This day of contrasts offers a rewarding challenge for experienced trekkers.

You start with a long descent from the Col du Palet (2,650 m) into the valley below. The terrain here is rocky, so you will need to watch your footing, but the views of the valley and the Vanoise peaks are spectacular. Today you will pass several alpine lakes, such as Lac du Palet and Lac du Grand Plan. After a zigzagging downhill stretch, you can enjoy the views and take a break at the Glière Refuge.

Continue above and parallel to the Doron River, descending until you reach the Refuge du Laisonnay. This will complete a descent of over 1,000 metres. Well done! From there, prepare for a short but steep ascent, which will take you past the Cascade du Py. Here, you can enjoy awesome views and a dramatic, remote setting.

After a few more kilometres, you will finally reach the peaceful Refuge de Plaisance. Tucked into a grassy bowl and surrounded by wildflowers, it's the perfect place to relax and refuel after this challenging yet beautiful stage.

The final stage is a glorious descent from the Refuge de Plaisance back to the Refuge de Rosuel. This fitting finale brings this demanding yet incredibly rewarding alpine trek to a close. You start the day with a slow ascent of a few kilometres to the day's highest point at Tête Rouge, next to Lac du Plan Séry, at around 2,600 metres.

Later, you will descend through meadows and stony paths, gradually leaving the high mountains behind. Halfway down, you will pass Refuge d'Entre le Lac, where you can take a break if you wish. Soon, you will arrive at the serene surroundings of Lac de la Plagne. This section of the trail boasts some of the best scenery in the Vanoise area, with lush valleys below and sharp ridgelines above.

Continuing north, the trail widens and runs parallel to the meandering Le Ponturin stream, becoming more gradual as it takes you through alpine forests and past waterfalls until you reach the beautiful open bowl in which the Refuge de Rosuel sits. This refuge is the perfect place to rest, reflect, and celebrate your achievement after completing three epic stages through the heart of the French Alps.