Cervières, wild valley of the Briançonnais on foot - Fugues en Montagne

Over the course of the week, we'll take time to explore the many high-altitude trails that will take us from the Chenaillet massif, strewn with underwater volcanic rock, to the fortifications erected by Vauban, from the mythical Col d'Izoard, a cyclist's paradise, to the Fonts valley, where farming traditions are still very much alive. We'll pass through verdant larch forests overlooked by superb, soaring peaks, and flower-filled alpine meadows dotted with crystal-clear high altitude lakes, where ancient chalets bear witness to the harsh peasant life of yesteryear! Tour highlights : A wide variety of atmospheres and landscapes Walks that are both sporting and contemplative Uncrowded itineraries Country life still very much alive Warm, comfortable accommodation DAY 1: Welcome and introduction to the trip Meet at 5pm at the Auberge l'Arpelin at Le Laus, at the foot of the Col d'Izoard. Settle into your rooms, then enjoy an aperitif at 7pm to hear about your stay. DAY 2: Piedmont walk A warm-up walk in the Italian Piedmont, via the Col de Bousson (2154m) or the Col de Chabaud (2213m). Because of their low altitude, they were once the link between the Escarton d'Oulx and the Escarton de Briançon, or a popular crossing point for smugglers of all kinds. Walking time: 4h30 - Ascent: 500 m DAY 3: Lac des Cordes We make our way to Lac des Cordes (2446m), situated in the heart of the communal mountain pastures. We cross the Col des Marsailles (2601m) at the foot of the Pic de Rochebrune, to reach the hamlet of Les Fonts de Cervières. The return journey takes us along the Vallée des Fonts, dotted with numerous alpine hamlets. We'll be able to see chalets with typical architecture and discover a still well-preserved practice of traditional agriculture. Walking time: 4h30 - Difference in altitude: 600 m DAY 4: The Chenaillet massif Hike to discover the Chenaillet volcanic massif, made up of surprising rocks with strange green hues. The trail winds its way through a constellation of small lakes, to the largest of them all: Lac Gignoux (2329m), overlooked by the Grand Charvia and Cime Saurel summits. Along the way we pass the ruined Chalet des Fraches, the last vestige of an abandoned summer pasture hamlet. Walking time: 4h - Ascent: 555 m DAY 5: Les chalets d'Izoard Leaving the hamlet of Le Laus, we cross the Bois de Péméant along the mule track to the Chalets d'Izoard (2120m), a small ruined alpine hamlet. We discover a magnificent high-altitude meadow up to the Col des Ourdeïs (2420m), from where we have a splendid view of the highest peaks in the Queyras Natural Park. Walking time: 5h30 - Difference in altitude: 750 m DAY 6: The Alp hamlets We'll set off to discover the hamlets of l'Alp, small strings of ancient alpine chalets that still bear vivid witness to the harsh agricultural life of yesteryear. Our route takes us up to the Col de Peyre Moutte, from where we can enjoy one last fine view of the Vallée des Fonts. We return along a sinewy little military trail. Walking time: 4h30 - Difference in altitude: 600 meters IMPORTANT: we reserve the right to modify the program for any reason whatsoever (weather conditions, presence of snow, physical condition and technical level of participants, whims of the guide...). These modifications are always made in your best interest: for your safety and to make your stay as pleasant as possible.