Back hike

Tour of the Monolith on foot via the Biches trail

Val-Cenis
© Tour of the Monolith on foot via the Biches trail - OTHMV - Y. Bellissand

Set off to conquer a 93-metre-tall giant that reigns over the forest. This
lesser-known route to the Monolith gives you a sense of peace, as you
walk in the shade enjoying a diversity of landscapes.

Description

When the snow melts in the Val Cenis Sardières Nordic skiing area, swap
your cross-country ski boots for hiking boots. Here you are, embarking on an
adventure in this enchanting forest, dotted with majestic Scots pines. Squirrels
discreetly escort you, looking faintly amused at your antics.
As you approach the imposing limestone peak, your eyes are drawn to a
peculiar little shrub. Meet Erica Carnea... Sounds like a movie star, doesn't it?
But it's really a protected species in Vanoise National Park. Is this the plant
they call winter heath? Bold and eager, it manages to grow even before winter
comes to an end. With its colourful little bells, it braves the bad weather and
can even break through the blanket of snow. What a find! But be careful not
to trample this little gem, it's very rare in France!

Additional welcome

The duration of hiking trails is calculated using reference paces: 300 m/h ascent, 500 m/h descent and 4 km/h on the flat.

As hazards may occur at any time on the routes, the GPX tracks provided are not contractual. They are given for information only. Riders use them at their own risk, depending on their level of technological proficiency and their understanding of the terrain.

  • Minimum age: 6 years

Environments

  • Forest location
  • Mountain view
  • Mountain location
  • Village -2 km away
  • Pond within 5 km
  • In a nature reserve

Rates

Free access.

Itinerary

  • Distance 4km
  • Route type LOOP
  • Elevation gain 160m
  • Negative gradient 160m
  • Daily duration 01h30
  • Signposted itinerary Yes
  • Beaconing accuracy Mixed marking (PR and PNV)
  • Nature of the land Rock, Ground, Not suitable for strollers
  • Maximum altitude 1630m

Opening period

From 01/05 to 15/10 daily.

Subject to favorable snow and weather conditions.

Additional opening

  • Subject to favorable weather

  • Subject to snow conditions

Location

By bus: Line S52 - Church stop.
By car: park in the Sardières church parking lot.
.

Animals

Pets allowed : No

Pets are not allowed on this hike in the Vanoise National Park.

Guidebook with maps/step-by-step

  • To guide you in the field, consult the "step-by-step" directional diagram provided in pdf.

Tour of the Monolith on foot via the Biches trail
Rue du clot - Church of Sardières Sollières-Sardières 73500 Val-Cenis
  • Distance 4km
  • Daily duration 01h30
  • Elevation gain 160m
  • Negative gradient 160m
Prepare your hike
Documents