Petit Mercantour Hut-to-Hut Trek

The charming town of Saint-Martin-de-Vésubie marks the starting point of your hike through Mercantour National Park. This is the perfect place to make your last-minute purchases for the trek. You'll find an outdoor shop, several restaurants, and plenty of small grocery stores here.

As soon as you leave the village behind, the ascent begins almost immediately. In the first 4 kilometers, you will climb about 700 meters until you reach Collet Cotignol. At Collet Cotignol, you’ll be rewarded with views of the pine forests and surrounding mountains. From here, the trail changes and you’ll encounter slightly more challenging sections than during the ascent. The trail flattens out, and it remains mostly level for the next 3.5 kilometers.

In total, you’ll cover approximately 9 kilometers today, eventually reaching your first destination: Gîte d’Étape du Boréon.

After a good breakfast, day 2 of your adventure can begin. Head east towards Vacherie du Boréon, which for many hikers is the starting point to explore Mercantour National Park. When you come across the GR52 signs, you'll know you're on the right track. You can follow these all the way to Chalet de la Madone de la Fenestre.

After about half an hour of walking, you'll reach Chalet Vidron, where you'll find a beautiful waterfall on your left. Make sure to take a short break here. Continue the trail towards Gias de Peirastrech, and then turn right towards Lac de Trécolpas. This is the perfect spot for lunch with a stunning view of the lake.

Keep following the GR52, and after about 1.5 kilometers, you will reach Pas des Ladres. From here, head further southeast until you arrive at the charming Chalet de la Madone de Fenestre.

After a cozy night at the Chalet de la Madone de Fenestre, your final stage begins with a gentle ascent through high alpine terrain. The trail leads you past the chapel of La Madone de Fenestre and into an open valley surrounded by rugged peaks — a true highlight of the Mercantour National Park.

Soon, you’ll start your descent towards the Vésubie valley. The path winds through fragrant pine forests and pastures dotted with grazing sheep. Take your time to enjoy the mountain views — this is one of the most scenic parts of the trek. As you descend, the landscape gradually softens, and you’ll begin to see signs of civilization again.

After about 2 hours, you’ll reach Le Boréon, where you can stop for a coffee or lunch. From here, the final stretch back to Saint-Martin-Vésubie follows a well-marked trail that descends steadily through forests and along the river. The familiar rooftops of Saint-Martin-Vésubie mark the end of your 3-day adventure — a satisfying conclusion to your journey through the heart of the Mercantour.