Back hike

The 3-day Méan Martin traverse - Stage 3 - From the Fond des Fours refuge to the La Bâtisse gîte

Bessans
The 3-day Méan Martin traverse - Stage 3 - From the Fond des Fours refuge to the La Bâtisse gîte - OTHMV - B. Filliol

Why not try your hand at roaming the mountains, skirting the glaciers of the Vanoise National Park? This escapade will delight young and not-so-young hikers accustomed to moderate efforts at altitude.

Description

Today, start without limits. There are two programs to choose from, and all you have to do is negotiate the climb to the Col des Fours just below the "3000" mark. At 2976m, a legendary cairn awaits your arrival. Don't hesitate to place your stone on it, before admiring the view below over the crystal-clear glacial lake. Plunge your gaze into the sometimes turquoise blue that contrasts with the jagged rock of the great bottom and the pointe des fours. The descent to Bonneval gradually brings you back down to earth. You can extend the pleasure all the way to Bessans via the balcony of the Vallon mountain pasture. A gourmet break at the Vallon d'en haut inn is sure to be one of your objectives! Or would you prefer to end your escape with a peaceful dip in the Vallon de la Lenta, ending your journey in the heart of the village of Bonneval-sur-Arc? Either way, you can take a bus back down to the valley. What better way to complete an emblematic crossing in complete tranquillity?

Additional welcome

You are entering a protected area. Pets are not allowed in the Vanoise National Park.
You must book your overnight stay in a refuge in advance.
Stay on the trails and follow the signs, and take your garbage with you.

Environments

  • Lake view
  • Mountain location
  • Close to GR footpath
  • Overview on river
  • In a nature reserve

Rates

Free access.

Itinerary

  • Distance 16km
  • Route type One-way ticket
  • Elevation gain 450m
  • Negative gradient 1240m
  • Daily duration 05h30
  • Signposted itinerary Yes
  • Beaconing accuracy Departmental markings (yellow), GR markings (red and white) and Vanoise National Park markings (blue - white - red).
  • Nature of the land Stone, Ground, Grit, Not suitable for strollers
  • Maximum altitude 2962m

Opening period

Itinerary accessible outside snow periods and subject to favorable weather conditions. Check the local weather forecast in real time up to the day of departure. Information on trail and hut access conditions is available from the tourist office and the Vanoise National Park.

Additional opening

  • Subject to favorable weather

  • Subject to snow conditions

Spoken languages

  • French

Location

I'm going by bus :
Return itinerary: Line S53 - Le Villaron stop

Animals

Pets allowed : No

Pets are not allowed on this hike in the Vanoise National Park.

Guidebook with maps/step-by-step

  • Day 3: Refuge du Fond des Fours (2537m) - Gîte La Batîsse (1740m) Time: 5h30 / Difference in altitude: +450 / -1240

The 3-day Méan Martin traverse - Stage 3 - From the Fond des Fours refuge to the La Bâtisse gîte
73480 Bessans
  • Distance 16km
  • Daily duration 05h30
  • Elevation gain 450m
  • Negative gradient 1240m
Prepare your hike
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