3-day walking tour of the Etache rock - Stage 1 - From the Petit Mont-Cenis refuge to the Ambin refuge

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 04h00
• 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.

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.

Documents

• 3-day walking tour of the Etache rock - Stage 1 - From the Petit Mont-Cenis refuge to the Ambin 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/ Get off to a gentle start before heading into the Val d'Ambin on a rocky descent to the Plan de la vie. The secret valley welcomes you with the sound of its torrent, sometimes very agitated when the snow melts. Take a refreshing break to observe the dynamic swirls of the watercourse. The climb up to the Ambin refuge, through lush green meadows, is an experience of total immersion. Discover a rustic and authentic refuge on a human scale. Proudly perched on its rocky outcrop, it opens the door to a world that has remained untamed, and is much appreciated by shy chamois.