Crossing the Beaufortain in Savoie

10:40 AM – Albertville Station: group welcome, meeting with Captain Chloé and backpack verification before heading towards the south of Beaufortain. The massif is known for its mountain landscapes, striking peaks, green valleys and traditional villages.

In the heart of high-altitude hamlets, we take the first trails and quickly gain elevation. The view opens onto the Écrins massif in the distance, as well as other mountain ranges visible depending on the route. The route crosses alpine pastures where sheep, goats and cattle graze: an opportunity to experience pastoral life and discuss local traditions and customs.

We reach the refuge in the afternoon.

From the terrace, an unobstructed view accompanies the break before settling in for a first dinner in the mountains, a convivial moment to launch the adventure.

Activity: 5km hike, 750m elevation gain

Departure from the lodge for a day along the passes and ridge lines typical of the Beaufortain : gentle profiles, regular slopes, a terrain appreciated by hikers and trekking enthusiasts. The massif remains less frequented than Mont-Blanc, offering a peaceful setting to advance together.

Along the way, the eye is drawn to the snow-capped peaks of Vanoise and its glacial expanses. Mineral and vegetation echo each other in the distance, while we discover more of the Beaufortain in the heart of the alpine meadows, between rocky summits and marmots that punctuate the walk.

At the end of the day, return to the lodge: the sunset over the mountains accompanies the break before warming up for the night.

Activity: 9km of hiking, 600m elevation gain and 600m elevation loss

Heading towards the heart of Beaufortain. We cross a first pass, then descend towards Lake d'Amour, at the foot of Pierra Menta, with an opening onto the valley and Mont Blanc. The site is perfect for a sunny picnic break, between the mineral splendor of Pierra Menta and the shores of the lake.

Guided by Captain Chloé, we follow secluded trails that reinforce the sense of tranquility throughout the crossing. In the distance appears the refuge for the night, perched high in the Forand valley, facing Pierra Menta and bordered by a lake.

The day concludes with a shared mountain dinner, while enjoying the view over Forand valley, in a simple and attentive atmosphere provided by the local team.

Activity: 8.5km hike, 900m elevation gain and 470m elevation loss

The day starts by crossing a mountain pass with rocky terrain, often frequented by ibex. The trail remains accessible, with the possibility of observing these animals around the boulders. We then descend into the Combe de la Neuva for a pleasant walk along the streams.

We then head towards the Cormet de Roselend, before climbing back onto the ridge line. We follow the crête des Gittes, a scenic ridge trail above the Roselend dam, with views of Mont Blanc. The day ends at a mountain refuge perched high up, where we spend the final night of the stay.

Activity: 13.5km hiking, 900m ascent and 940m descent

Last wake-up in the mountains before crossing the Bonhomme Pass, following an ancient Roman road. From the pass, the descent continues to the Gittaz dam via the Curé Path, a trail with views above the torrent that recalls the history of the alpine pastures upstream. A final climb ends the route before finally putting down the backpacks.

Back near the roads, pause for coffee or a drink on the terrace, facing the Roselend dam and its changing reflections. A convivial moment to say goodbye before heading back down to the valley.

Return to Albertville station at 3pm.

Activity: 10km of hiking, 250m of elevation gain and 1100m of elevation loss