2-day tour of Lac du Mont-Cenis - Stage 1 - From the Col du Mont-Cenis to the Petit Mont-Cenis refuge

Treat yourself to a trip around Lake Mont Cenis. Take the time for a total immersion between passes and balconies. Fabulous viewpoints await you! Your 2nd stage will be spiced up by a tricky passage (handrail with no technical difficulty).
Description
Take the 2000 trail, which seems to lead you to infinity. The time machine takes you back to the past of Italian soldiers. Get a front-row seat on this balcony with its breathtaking views. Play image hunter and take time to immerse yourself in the history of an emblematic place. In the background, the Roche d'Etache dominates the horizon. This is the perfect backdrop to retrace the military past of the Col du Mont-Cenis. Let yourself be tempted by several panoramic breaks, made easier by the gentle relief. Get a little more height with the only difficulty of the day and take your place! At an altitude of almost 2300m, this circular fort is an infallible observation post! It's been quiet for over half a century, but you can still feel the weight of history. As far as the eye can see, the ridges cut into the sky and are reflected in the turquoise lake. Hypnotized by the water's reflections, don't hesitate to leave the enchantment behind and gradually plunge into a more alpine atmosphere. When you arrive at the Petit Mont Cenis refuge, what's that unusual wooden door opening onto the Petit Mont Cenis pass? A must for a souvenir photo of your journey.
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
- Waterside
- Lakeside or by stretch of water
- Lake view
- Mountain view
- Mountain location
- Lake 5 km away
- Presence of livestock and guard dogs
Rates
Free access.
Itinerary
- Distance 20km
- Route type One-way ticket
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Elevation gain 530m
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Negative gradient 500m
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Daily duration 06h30
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Signposted itinerary Yes
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Beaconing accuracy Departmental markings (yellow) and GR markings (red and white)
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Nature of the land Stone, Ground, Grit, Not suitable for strollers
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Maximum altitude 2333m
Opening period
Itinerary accessible outside snow periods and subject to favorable weather conditions. Check the local weather forecast in real time up to the day of your departure. Information on access conditions to trails and refuges is available from the tourist office.
Additional opening
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Subject to favorable weather
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Subject to snow conditions
Location
In front of the Val Cenis Lanslebourg tourist office, take the D1006 to the Col du Mont Cenis. Limited parking at the pass. Possibility of parking for several nights.
Documents
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
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DAY 1: Col du Mont-Cenis (2081 m) - Refuge du Petit Mont-Cenis (2110 m). Duration: 6h30/ Ascent: + 530 m / - 500m