Grande Traversée Alps

Chamonix to Briançon: The Heart of the Alps

The first section of the GTA takes you through some of the wildest and most breathtaking terrains the French Alps have to offer. Starting in Chamonix, known for its stunning views of Mont Blanc, the trail winds through the Beaufortain Mountains, the Vanoise Range, and the Cerces Mountains before reaching Briançon.

This segment is a hiker's paradise, with an array of challenging and rewarding trails. As you traverse the Mt. Blanc Range, you'll be greeted by panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and lush green meadows. The Beaufortain Mountains offer a blend of rugged cliffs and tranquil pastures, while the Vanoise Range is home to some of the most picturesque lakes and glacial landscapes in the Alps. The Cerces Mountains provide a dramatic finish to this leg of the journey with their striking rock formations and diverse flora.

Hikers will find themselves immersed in nature, passing through protected areas where wildlife such as ibex and marmots can be seen. The well-marked trails ensure that both experienced trekkers and those new to alpine hiking can enjoy the stunning scenery safely.

Briançon to Menton: From Alpine Heights to the Mediterranean

Continuing from Briançon, the GTA takes you further south through the Alps towards the Mediterranean coast. This segment, which can also be referred to as “Briançon to Nice”, passes through some of the most beautiful mountain lakes and vibrant alpine meadows, eventually leading to Menton.

This part of the trail is characterized by its diverse landscapes. Hikers will pass through two national parks: the Écrins and Mercantour. The Ecrins National Park is known for its rugged beauty and abundant wildlife, offering a true wilderness experience. In Mercantour, the landscape changes to a more Mediterranean feel, with olive trees and colorful wildflowers lining the paths.

The trail also takes you by some of the most beautiful lakes in the Alps, including Lac de Vens, Lac de Rabuons, and Lac Forréan. These serene spots provide perfect rest points where hikers can take in the natural beauty and perhaps even enjoy a refreshing swim.

One of the highlights of this segment is the legendary "Valley of Wonders" (Vallée des Merveilles), renowned for its petroglyphs that are over 2,500 years old. This area offers a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric times, with thousands of rock carvings depicting animals, human figures, and abstract symbols.

As you approach Menton, the trail descends towards the Mediterranean, offering stunning views of the coast. The transition from alpine landscapes to the azure waters of the Mediterranean is truly spectacular and a fitting end to this epic journey.