Trek the tour du Queyras

We meet at 9:00 a.m. in Ville Vieille to begin this first day of hiking in Queyras. From the very first steps, we enjoy a breathtaking view of the Demoiselle Coiffée de Ville Vieille, an intriguing geological curiosity. As we pass through an authentic alpine village, we discover its stone houses and typical slate roofs, witnesses to the region's rich heritage.

The ascent is gradual, through forests and picturesque hamlets, revealing majestic views of the Queyras massif, an unspoiled area in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur. For the more motivated, a more challenging option is available with a 7.5-mile route and 3,900-foot elevation gain, including the ascent of a summit depending on the group's wishes.

At the end of the route, we reach Saint-Véran, the highest village in Europe, perched at an altitude of 2,040 meters. Nicknamed “the village where roosters peck at the stars,” it reveals its remarkable architecture and history rooted in Alpine traditions. Between nature and culture, this day is a total immersion in the know-how and heritage of the Queyras National Park.

We end this beautiful first day by returning to our lodge, the Auberge Costebelle, a comfortable and welcoming place where we enjoy a traditional meal prepared with local products, perfect for recharging our batteries before continuing our adventure.

On this second day, we climb higher and enter the heart of the upper Queyras massif, surrounded by its many peaks rising to over 3,000 meters. The hike begins on a gently sloping trail, winding between mountain streams and flower-filled alpine meadows, offering a lively and colorful backdrop throughout the seasons.

Halfway through, we reach the Chapelle de Clausis, perched at an altitude of 2,400 meters. Not far from there, a historic site houses the remains of an ancient copper mine dating back to prehistoric times, bearing witness to the ancestral human occupation of these wild lands. A short break allows us to admire this place steeped in history before continuing our ascent.

The effort gradually increases as we reach the Col de Chamoussière, a gateway to the highest peaks in the region. We climb one of the two peaks, the Pic de Caramantran, which rises to over 3,000 meters. Up there, a 360° view rewards us for our efforts: a breathtaking panorama of the French and Italian Alps, with endless ridges and a unique light that enhances the relief.

After this moment suspended between heaven and earth, we begin our descent towards Refuge Agnel, our haven for the night. Located high up in the mountains, on the border with Italy, this modern and comfortable refuge welcomes us for a convivial evening in the heart of the mountains. Far from the hustle and bustle of the world, we enjoy a comforting meal and a warm atmosphere before a good night's rest, lulled by the pure air of the peaks.

This third day marks the most intense and majestic stage of the trip. We travel through spectacular scenery, surrounded by high-altitude lakes, unspoiled valleys, and dizzying peaks throughout the crossing.

We begin our hike through the Bouchouse valley, a true natural gem where larch forests mingle with green valleys, punctuated by steep slopes and crystal-clear streams. This wild route is a true haven of peace, where mountain pastures, torrents, and high-altitude lakes shape a changing landscape of exceptional richness.

Each step immerses us in a different atmosphere: panoramic views of imposing peaks, isolated mountain villages, and lower, more airy valleys, where nature stretches out elegantly without losing its lush green density.

For those who want even more, we offer an additional climb to Pain de Sucre, an iconic, completely mineral peak. This ascent takes us to an exceptional viewpoint, offering spectacular views of the steep Taillante ridge, an impressive sharp rock formation, as well as the surrounding vertiginous peaks.

Today, we set off to explore Lac du Grand Laus, majestically perched at an altitude of 2,600 meters. The climb begins gently, taking us through an alpine landscape where solitude and nature reign supreme. Along the way, we pass the isolated hamlet of Malrif, now partially in ruins, a timeless stopover with its Sainte-Catherine chapel offering panoramic views of the valley.

When we arrive at Lac du Grand Laus, we are greeted by a breathtaking sight: sparkling blue water, bordered by rocky ridges, with the iconic Mont Viso rising proudly on the horizon. A picture-postcard setting awaits us as we picnic by the lake and savor this exceptional environment.

After this contemplative break at altitude, we begin the descent to Aiguilles, a village steeped in history nestled in the heart of the “Marassan” larch forests. This enchanting setting is also marked by a unique heritage: the “Belles Américaines,” sumptuous bourgeois houses built by inhabitants who left to seek their fortune in America before returning to their homeland.

On this final day, we walk along a magnificent balcony trail offering breathtaking views of the Queyras landscapes. This aerial crossing takes us on a journey of discovery through hilltop hamlets, witnesses to a preserved mountain life where traditions and nature coexist harmoniously.

Gradually, we begin the descent to Château-Queyras, an iconic site in the region. Its imposing fortress, perched on a rocky outcrop, dominates the surrounding area and immerses us in the fascinating history of Queyras, dating back to prehistoric times. A stop allows us to explore this place steeped in history and admire the majestic landscapes of the massif one last time.

Finally, after this last quest for heritage, we continue our descent to Ville Vieille, our starting point. This is where our five-day adventure, rich in discoveries, sharing, and wonder, comes to an end. Between dizzying peaks, high-altitude lakes, wild valleys, and exceptional villages, this immersion in the Queyras Natural Park will have left a lasting impression and unforgettable memories.

One last moment together, sharing stories of these intense days and savoring the moment, before everyone goes their separate ways, their minds still filled with the magic of Queyras. See you soon on the trails!