2-day hiking tour of the Etache rock - Stage 2 - From the Ambin refuge to Le Planay

If you're a fan of undiscovered regions, the Val d'Ambin is the place for you. Between mountain pastures and high-altitude passes, this short getaway promises a weekend out of the ordinary. It's the ideal introduction to the pleasures of itinerancy.

Additional welcome

You must book your overnight stay in a refuge in advance.
Stay on the trails, following the signs, and take your garbage with you.

Environments

• Mountain view
• Mountain location
• Overview on river
• Panoramic view

Rates

Free access.

Itinerary

• Distance 16km
• Route type One-way ticket
• Elevation gain 710m
• Negative gradient 1290m
• Daily duration 06h30
• Signposted itinerary Yes
• Beaconing accuracy Yellow departmental signs all along the way.
• Nature of the land Stone, Ground, Grit, Not suitable for strollers
• Maximum altitude 2240m

Opening period

Itinerary accessible outside snow periods and subject to favorable weather conditions. Check with the Tourist Office beforehand for current access conditions. We strongly advise you to book accommodation in advance (please note that opening dates vary according to hut).

Additional opening

• Subject to favorable weather

• Subject to snow conditions

Location

RD100 out of Bramans on a narrow asphalt road. Stop at the Planay parking lot before the bridge leading to the refuge du Suffet. Possibility of parking for several nights. 1 minute walk from the refuge.

Animals

Pets allowed : Yes

Pets allowed with supplement : No

Animals must be kept on a leash throughout this itinerary for your safety and that of the herds.

Guidebook with maps/step-by-step

• 2/ Start early to reach the highest point. You’ll find yourself in a more rocky landscape, which is sometimes still covered in snow in early summer. Crampons and trekking poles will often come in handy to help you cross the remaining snowfields near Lac Noir. The abundant signage makes it easy to follow the trail intuitively.
  At an altitude of 2,710 meters, the Pas de la Coche is just ahead. Shy chamois sometimes watch you from afar. Here you are at the final challenge, which promises a unique experience in a high-mountain setting. Such a wild pass at an altitude of nearly 3,000 meters isn’t for everyone! It’s time to cross to the other side of the Roche d’Etache via the Pas de la Coche. The descent requires caution as you navigate scree slopes and flat sections. What an impressive cliff seen from below! Take the time to stop at the foot of this fascinating giant. In fine weather, blooming rhododendrons give a fuchsia-pink hue to the alpine grass lining the slopes. From the Plan des Eaux descent, can you make out the footbridge over the Plan d’Etache torrent? There’s no doubt it will mark your next refreshing break. Now you’re immersed in the calm of the valley. Take the opportunity to stop at the Etache farm for refreshments in a bucolic atmosphere. Local products and carefully selected drinks will round out the end of your getaway. This rejuvenating stop is the perfect starting point for a 2 km descent along the torrent. Don’t hesitate to cap off your itinerary with dinner and a final night at the Refuge du Suffet.