Back hike

3-Day Hiking Tour of the Etache Rock - Stage 1 - From the Petit Mont-Cenis Shelter to the Ambin Shelter

Val-Cenis

If you're a fan of undiscovered regions, the Val d'Ambin is the place for you. Between alpine pastures and high-altitude passes, this escapade promises an extraordinary journey. And as an added bonus, a precious foray into the Savine valley.

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
  • Close to GR footpath
  • Overview on river

Rates

Free access.

Itinerary

  • Distance 9km
  • Route type One-way ticket
  • Elevation gain 510m
  • Negative gradient 390m
  • Daily duration 4:00 a.m.
  • Signposted itinerary Yes
  • Beaconing accuracy Departmental yellow and red/white (GR) markings
  • Nature of the land Stone, Ground, Grit, Not suitable for strollers
  • Maximum altitude 2270m

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 departure. Information on trail and hut access conditions is available from the tourist office.

Labels

Location

In front of the Val Cenis Lanslebourg tourist office, take the D1006 to the Petit Mont Cenis pass, then dip right onto a small balcony road that skirts the Mont Cenis lake. It climbs steadily for 7 km to the refuge parking lot. Possibility of parking for several nights. A 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

  • 1/ Start off gently before heading into the Val d'Ambin on a rocky descent to the Plan de la Vie. This hidden valley welcomes you with the sound of its rushing stream, which can be quite turbulent during the snowmelt. Take a refreshing break to watch the dynamic swirls of the water. The climb up to the Ambin refuge, through lush green meadows, is an immersive experience. Discover a rustic and authentic refuge on a human scale. Perched proudly on its rocky outcrop, it opens the door to a world that has remained untamed, and is much loved by shy chamois.

3-Day Hiking Tour of the Etache Rock - Stage 1 - From the Petit Mont-Cenis Shelter to the Ambin Shelter
Refuge du Petit Mont-Cenis Bramans 73500 Val-Cenis
  • Distance 9km
  • Daily duration 4:00 a.m.
  • Elevation gain 510m
  • Negative gradient 390m
Prepare your hike
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