A night at the Evettes refuge: immersion begins
Under the stars, on the way to the summit... ⭐The evening at the Evettes refuge was a real plunge into the mountain spirit: conviviality over a hot meal, exchanges with other mountaineers on the various destinations planned, a few tips from our mountain guide to prepare for our expedition, and admiring the pure, infinite starry sky. It was under this celestial canopy that we found the courage and motivation for the following day. Waking up at 4 a.m. marked the start of our ascent.
Breakfast to give us energy for the start of the day, headlamps on, we set off into the cool, half-lit night, guided by starlight and our guide's sure-footed footsteps. Gradually, the contours of the mountains took shape as dawn broke. This moment suspended in time, between heaven and earth, sets the tone for an exceptional day.
Along the way, we reach the Lac du Grand Méan, one of the many high-altitude lakes in Haute Maurienne Vanoisean icy, milky-blue expanse nestling at the foot of its majestic glacier. The panorama is breathtaking. After a short break to hydrate and admire this natural wonder, we continue our ascent. Crampons are a must as we tackle the glacier, a technical traverse that demands concentration and coordination as a team. Every step is an effort, but the beauty of the place keeps us going, motivated by the idea of reaching the summit.
The last few metres are a real challenge. Finally, we reach Pointe Francesetti. Here, the spectacle is indescribable: the view extends over the Italian peaks and the surrounding massifs. The immensity of the Alps envelops us, reminding us of the power and grandeur of nature. You can see iconic Alpine peaks suchas Mont Blanc, La Meije and La Grande Sassière. I'm overcome by a sense of fulfillment, a mixture of pride in the effort accomplished and humility in the face of these giants of rock and ice.
We took a short break to continue our observation of the grandiose panorama, had a well-deserved snack and immortalized the moment with photos that will last forever. Then we were off again, heading for the refuge and then the village of Bonneval.
A little history...📖
The "massif de la Vanoise", of which Bonneval is a major gateway, has gradually established itself as an ideal training ground for mountaineers. Summits such as the Pointe Francesetti, the Pointe de Bonneval and the Dent Parrachée have become summer classics, attracting high-mountain enthusiasts in search of adventure and awe-inspiring scenery. With improved equipment and the creation of the first local mountain guides, Bonneval sur Arc quickly became a recognized base for exploring the surrounding peaks.
Over the decades, the rise of "mountain refuges", such as the Evettes refuge, has facilitated access to these ascents. These welcoming havens, where climbers share meals and experiences, embody the mountain spirit. Summer mountaineering at Bonneval is not just about sport, it's about immersing yourself in a tradition where nature, effort and conviviality meet.
Today, Bonneval sur Arc retains its authentic charm, far removed from mass tourism. Mountaineering remains a flagship activity, offering the chance to discover glaciers, high-altitude lakes and breathtaking panoramas, while perpetuating a heritage that goes back generations.
Land of mountaineering
