Why "The Path to Little Happiness"?
A trail designed for the joy of walking
What makes the "Path of Small Joys" so special is its accessibility.It’s perfect for everyone: families, casual hikers, and those who enjoy a leisurely stroll… Avid athletes, trail runners, and mountain bikers will also find something to enjoy!
The elevation changes are gradual, and the trails are well-marked. The route can be completed in one go or in sections, as you prefer.
Everything has been designed so that hikers have only one thing to do: enjoy themselves!
Enjoy the silence of the woods, the murmur of a stream, a breathtaking view of the Vanoise glaciers, or a village in the distance.
Why this name?
The Path of Small Joys is an ancient trail that winds from village to village throughout the Haute Maurienne Vanoise region.The origin of its name has been lost to history, although some locals claim it was named by the boys from Lanslebourg, who used this forest path to sneak over and visit the girls in the neighboring village.
A path through nature and history
Far from being monotonous, the path to small joys offers a variety of atmospheres.A walk through a flower-filled clearing follows a descent into the forest, before crossing a small stone bridge or following an old irrigation canal.
You’ll also come across traces of the past: wayside shrines, dry-stone walls, old paths connecting hamlets… All of these are reminders of a simple, resilient mountain way of life.
The luxury of slowness and contemplation
In a world that’s often in a hurry, the path to simple joy is an invitation to slow down. To take your time. To rediscover the mountains in a new way: without a stopwatch, without a goal, without stress.Maybe that’s what simple happiness is all about: marveling at a panoramic view, chatting with a shepherd you meet on the trail, having a picnic by a mountain stream, or breathing in the scent of pine trees warmed by the sun.
Perfect for a first time in the mountains
Have you ever gone hiking in the mountains? This trail is perfect for you.The "Path of Small Joys" is an excellent introduction to hiking. It allows you to familiarize yourself with the terrain (navigation, nature, topography) without any major difficulty, all while enjoying views worthy of a major trek.