2-day hike from the Refuge d'Avérole - Stage 1 - From Vincendières to the Refuge d'Avérole

At the edge of the Bessans plateau, the green Avérole valley opens up, overlooked by the impressive blue-tinged Charbonnel Glacier.
A picturesque trail winding through meadows and mountain hamlets, past oratories and chapels along the Avérole stream.

Additional welcome

The Avérole refuge has been awarded the "Refuge en Famille" label. You must book your overnight stay at the refuge in advance. Stay on the trails and follow the signs, and take your trash with you.

Environments

• Waterside
• Riverside
• Mountain view
• Mountain location

Rates

Free access.

Itinerary

• Distance 4.5 km
• Route type One-way ticket
• Elevation gain 366m
• Daily duration 1:45 a.m.
• Signposted itinerary Yes
• Beaconing accuracy Yellow blade markings.
• Nature of the land Stone, Ground, Not suitable for strollers
• Maximum altitude 2200m

Opening period

This route is accessible outside of snow season and is subject to favorable weather conditions. Check the local weather forecast in real time up until the day of departure.

Additional opening

• Subject to favorable weather

• Subject to snow conditions

Labels

Location

When leaving Bessans, turn right toward Avérole and park in the Vincendières parking lot.
To get there by bus: Line 3 – Parking des Vincendières stop

Animals

Pets allowed : Yes

Pets allowed with supplement: No

Pets are allowed under certain conditions. They must be kept on a leash on the trails and/or in the presence of herds or hikers. They are allowed in the shelter.

Guidebook with maps/step-by-step

• 1/ At the hamlet of Les Vincendières, turn left along the Avérole stream.
  the path that leads just before the hamlet. The sound of running water in this mountain valley will accompany you on your walk, just as it once did the peddlers, who went from house to house selling their wares on their way to Italy. Pass through the hamlet of Avérole; this valley was not always so depopulated. Look around you and you’ll see traces of the old, bustling agricultural life everywhere!
  Who built the dry-stone wall that makes the path between the hamlets safe?
  Who prayed in the oratories and chapels that dot the route? Who lived in these houses with their typical mountain village slate roofs?
  The valley’s many inhabitants of yesteryear have left their mark.
  Follow the trail on the left to the foot of the refuge (after 20 minutes on a steep path). It’s here, facing the Pointe du Charbonnel (3,752 m), that you’ll spend the night. Keep your eyes peeled, as the surrounding peaks all rise to over 3,000 m!