3-day bivouac micro-adventure: wilderness immersion around Roche d'Étache in Val Cenis
From the Petit Mont Cenis pass to the Ambin refuge
9 km, 510 m D+ climbThe adventure begins at the Petit Mont Cenis passpass, at an altitude of 2,100 metres. A magical passage which, from the very first moment, opens the doors to a realm of silence and raw beauty. Here, the mountains seem suspended in the sky. Follow the gently winding path, revealing secret valleys and meadows where the grasses dance to the rhythm of the wind.
The air is pure. Every breath connects us to the earth, and the steep, narrow path leads us gently up to the Ambin valley. As we climb, the valley reveals itself, like an unspoilt jewel case, where the river murmurs softly between the stones. Isolation, far from the beaten track, makes every moment an encounter with nature.
Arriving at theAmbin refuge, at an altitude of 2,300 metres, we discover a haven of peace. Here, under a starry sky, the mountain offers us its silence, its breath. If you feel like it, you can spend the night in the open air, lulled by the song of the stars and the freshness of alpine nights, at the bivouac near the refuge.
Please note: in Haute Maurienne Vanoise, bivouacs are only permitted in the vicinity of certain refuges.
Towards Lac Noir and Pas de la Coche, then refuge du Suffet
16 km, 710 m D+ (gradient)
In the morning, Lac Noir awaits us after our first ascent, hidden in the heart of the mountains. The path leading up to it takes us into a world where the earth seems unreal. The lake, its water dark as a mirror of the heavens, reflects the majestic, steep Dents d'Ambin in the distance. The whiteness of the snow-capped peaks is reflected in its deep waters, creating a fascinating spectacle.
The Pas de la Coche, a demanding but liberating pass, is an emotional experience. Up there, the surrounding valleys stretch out into infinite immensity. Once over the pass, we take the gentle detached valley, which leads us quietly to the Refuge du Suffet, at 2,200 metres. A true haven of peace, where the scent of wild herbs, the majesty of the mountains and the total absence of civilization transport us to another world where we forget everything - except the present moment.
The challenge of the day lies in the climb, but it's so rich in emotion and breathtaking panoramas that every step is worthwhile. In the evening, the refuge welcomes us, but the call of the bivouac remains seductive: nights under the mountain sky are a dream, an intimate communion with the elements.
Back to the Col du Petit Mont Cenis, between meadows and forests
8 km, 700 m D+ (gradient)On the last day, the trek takes a gentle turn, like a final bow to the beauty of the mountains. We ascend gently, passing through meadows carpeted with alpine flowers, forests where the trees seem to whisper ancient secrets. The path winds its way back to the Col du Petit Mont Cenis, the starting point of this adventure.
Anecdote: the path follows in the footsteps of the famous conqueror Hannibal, who crossed the Alps with his elephants over 2,000 years ago.. Legend or historical fact? We'll let you be the judge... Whatever the case, Hannibal has left his mark here: an astonishing bivouac (unguarded) now bears his name at Col Clappier, close to Petit Mont Cenis. Another exceptional site (with a glass roof to watch the stars from your bunk!) to try out on your next adventure in Haute Maurienne Vanoise.
This more leisurely stage allows you to savour the splendour of the area one last time. The trail takes you past the Perrin lakes, their shimmering waters reflecting the imposing peaks of the surrounding mountains. Discreet encounters with chamois and ibex add a touch of magic to the return journey. Each glance at the horizon, each breath taken in this immensity, resounds like a silent farewell to this wild kingdom.
Why choose this trek?
Far from the crowds, each day of this micro-adventure is an invitation to reconnect with the very essence of nature: the silence of the forests, the echo of the mountains, the song of the streams. The bivouac, more than just a night under the stars, becomes a moment of total communion with nature, far from everything, in gentle, comforting solitude.
Note: the Tour de la Roche d'Etache can also be done in 2 days, with a loop starting from the refuge du Suffet and an overnight stay at the refuge d'Ambin.
Practical tips for an unforgettable micro-adventure
1. Physical preparation: this is a demanding trek, with significant differences in altitude. You'll need to be in good shape to get the most out of this adventure.
2. Equipment: choose a sleeping bag suited to the mountains, technical clothing and light but high-performance bivouac gear.
3. Respect for the environment: the mountains offer you their hospitality. Respect it by staying on the trails, letting the wildlife live in peace and taking all your garbage with you.
To embark on the Tour de la Roche d'Étache in Val Cenis is to accept the mountain's invitation to lose yourself in its wild corners, to rediscover the essential. Three days out of time, far from civilization, where nature, in all its purity, becomes your only guide.
Tour des Glaciers de la Vanoise
Hiking tour: Tour of the Roche d'Étache
