France
Guided tour du Mont-Blanc in Hotel
7 days from
2320 €
Self-guided
Hiking
lvl. 4
New
Mon Roadbook App
Rooms and dorms
Multi-day hike
Réf : E3N2
Hiking : a relatively accessible activity, hiking offers the opportunity to explore a country or a region up close, on foot, and to meet and mingle with the locals. On a traverse or loop, whatever your skill level, embark on one of our through-hikes to immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the great outdoors.
Level 2: An average of 4 to 5 hours of hiking per day on a well-marked hilly path or trail.
Level 3: An average of 4 to 5 hours of hiking per day on well-marked trails and/or 600 to 800 meters of vertical gain, and/or distances up to 15 kilometers.Level 4: An average of 6 hours of hiking per day on well-marked trails or off trail, and/or 700 to 1000 meters of vertical gain, and/or distances of 15 to 18 kilometers.
Level 5: An average of more than 6 hours of hiking per day off trail or on rugged terrain, with more than 1000 meters of vertical gain (and/or distances up to 20 kilometers). Possibly sections at high altitude.
Level 6: An average of more than 7 to 8 hours of strenuous hiking per day off trail or on rugged terrain, with more than 1000 meters of vertical gain and/or distances up to 20 kilometers. Possibly sections at high altitude.
Mon Roadbook app: designed for the self-guided trips, "Mon
Roadbook" travel assistant guides you throughout your journey via a
mobile application to download on your smartphone.
Prices indicated are calculated based on a limited number of seats available or for a departure in over 2 months from today. Once all prereserved seats are filled, or for reservations with a departure in less than 2 months, we might have to acquire seats for a higher price (depending on availability at the moment the reservation is made), which might result in the application of a supplement that increases the closer we are to the departure date.
Our trip
A spectacular through hike (GR5) that takes you past some of the most beautiful lakes in the French Alps (Malrif, Egorgéou, Vens, Rabuons)
2 natural parks with beautiful wildlife
The prehistoric rock carvings of the Valley of Wonders
A high-altitude journey all the way to the Mediterranean Sea
"Mon Roadbook" app is available for this trip.
More info >>
More info >>
This extraordinary journey starts in Briançon, the mid-point between Mont-Blanc and the mountains overlooking the French Riviera (Maritime Alps). On your way to the Mediterranean Sea, cross over several mountain passes (Malrif, Mallemort, Pas de la Cavale, Mercière, Pas del l'Arpette, Pas du Diable, Mangiabo) close to 3000 meters elevation where, in the heart of the Southern French Alps witness, a spectacle of colors awaits. Stare in awe at the numerous beautiful mountain lakes, the clear blue sky, as well as the colorful mountain flowers and vegetation. With Italy nearby on the Sentier de l'Energie pass (often on the other side of a ridgeline or waterway), enjoy the warmth, friendliness, history, and culture of the people of the south. Right near the nature reserve where the wolves of the Mercantour live, close to the local populations of ibex, chamois (mountain goats), vultures and other birds of prey, the "Vallée des Merveilles" (Valley of Wonders"), with its legendary prehistoric cave paintings and petroglyphs, provides a spectacular example of the area's history and heritage. The balcony trails, forest roads, climbs, and summits, will lead you to the beautiful Mediterranean Sea.
Your choice of lodging + Person and Luggage transfer
Rooms and dorms July to October
* Minimum price for the current season, subject to availability based on 4 participants. (Price incl. VAT)
Itinerary
Level 4: An average of 6 hours of hiking per day on well-marked trails or off trail, and/or 700 to 1000 meters of vertical gain, and/or distances of 15 to 18 kilometers.
Hiking : a relatively accessible activity, hiking offers the opportunity to explore a country or a region up close, on foot, and to meet and mingle with the locals. On a traverse or loop, whatever your skill level, embark on one of our through-hikes to immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the great outdoors.
Mon Roadbook app: designed for the self-guided trips, "Mon
Roadbook" travel assistant guides you throughout your journey via a
mobile application to download on your smartphone.Duration : 12 days
Luggage transfers : 2 nights without luggage transfer
Lodging : Rooms and dorms
Guiding : self-guided
Group : Minimum 2 persons
Season : July to October
Day by day
Day 1
From Briançon to Abriès
Distance : 14 km (9 mi) -
Ascent : 800 m (2624 ft). Descent : 1400 m (4592 ft).
5.5 hours of hiking.
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : dinner. Meals not included : breakfast, lunch. Transfer : about 30 min.
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : dinner. Meals not included : breakfast, lunch. Transfer : about 30 min.
Meet at the Briançon train station at 8:00 am (see the section "Getting there" for instructions of how to get to the train station, and the section, "extra costs if you want to spend the night at Briançon before starting the trek).
Our driver will take you to Fonts de Cervières, and will drop your bags off at your hotel in Abriès.
Hiking up Torrent de Pierre Rouge (a creek) and crossing over Col des Malrif Pass ( 2803 m) takes you from the Briançon area into an area known as the Queyras, as well as the Queyras Natural Regional Park, a protected natural area. Walk past Grand Laus Lake and then down into the quaint mountain town of Abriès (1780 m). Depending on when you arrive, you have the option of strolling through the village and/or visiting some of the petroglyphs in the area.
Our driver will take you to Fonts de Cervières, and will drop your bags off at your hotel in Abriès.
Hiking up Torrent de Pierre Rouge (a creek) and crossing over Col des Malrif Pass ( 2803 m) takes you from the Briançon area into an area known as the Queyras, as well as the Queyras Natural Regional Park, a protected natural area. Walk past Grand Laus Lake and then down into the quaint mountain town of Abriès (1780 m). Depending on when you arrive, you have the option of strolling through the village and/or visiting some of the petroglyphs in the area.
Day 2
From Abriès to Agnel Hut and Saint Véran
Distance : 12 km (7.5 mi) -
Ascent : 1120 m (3675 ft). Descent : 230 m (755 mi).
5 hours of hiking.
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : breakfast, dinner. Meals not included : lunch. Transfer : about 10 min.
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : breakfast, dinner. Meals not included : lunch. Transfer : about 10 min.
Short transfer (by shuttle, free of charge) to l'Echalp, located along the Guil River Valley. The hike up to Col Vieux Pass (2806 m) takes you past the chalets in a place referred to as "La Médille;" along the way several petroglyphs line the trail. Patiently carved into the rock by shepherds, peasants, or even soldiers walking through the area, the animals, flowers, and surnames are an important part of the local heritage. Once a bottleneck/narrow passage, the trail takes you past several beautiful mountain lakes beneath Pain de Sucre Peak (3208 m). Enjoy the short descent to the Refuge Agnel Hut, where a taxi will pick you up and take you to Saint Véran, which, at an altitude of 2042m, is the highest township in France.
Day 3
From Saint Véran to Maljasset
Distance : 18 km (11 mi) -
Ascent : 800 m (2624 ft). Descent : 1000 m (3280 ft).
7 hours of hiking.
Lodging : mountain inn. Included meals : breakfast, dinner. Meals not included : lunch. Transfer : about 20 min.
Lodging : mountain inn. Included meals : breakfast, dinner. Meals not included : lunch. Transfer : about 20 min.
From Saint Véran, take the shuttle (about €6 per person, purchase from driver) to Chapelle de Clausis (a small chapel). From there, hike around Tête des Toilies Peak via Col Blanchet Pass and Col Longet Pass. Crossing over the latter takes you into Ubaye Valley. Continue to Maljasset, a beautiful village surrounded by chamois and where you will spend the night.
Day 4
From Maljasset to Larche
Distance : 14 km (9 mi) -
Ascent : 800 m (2624 ft). Descent : 1000 m (3280 ft).
6.5 hours of hiking.
Included meals : breakfast, dinner. Meals not included : lunch. Transfer : about 20 min.
Included meals : breakfast, dinner. Meals not included : lunch. Transfer : about 20 min.
Transfer to Fouillouse. Venture up the lush green Riou de Fouillouse Valley, with Tête de la Courbe Peak (3019 m) looming overhead, to Col du Vallonnet Pass. This pass offers breathtaking views of the Rocca Bianca Peak (3193 m) and provides access to a hanging valley that takes you to Col de Mallemort Pass (2558 m). From there, make your way down to the small border village of Larche.
Day 5
From Larche to Vens Hut
Distance : 22 km (14 mi) -
Ascent : 1500 m (4921 ft). Descent : 850 m (2789 ft).
7.5 hours of hiking.
Lodging : mountain hut. Included meals : breakfast, dinner. Meals not included : lunch.
Lodging : mountain hut. Included meals : breakfast, dinner. Meals not included : lunch.
This day's hike takes you up the superbly beautiful Ubayette Valley to the Donnadieu Hut, and past Lac du Lauzanier Lake (2284 m). The final climb through rocky terrain to Pas de la Cavale Pass (2671 m) is tough, but well worth the effort, since you're rewarded with breathtaking views from the pass. The hike then takes you Pas de Morgon Pass (2745 m) and then down to Refuge de Vens Hut.
Day 6
From Vens hut to Saint Étienne de Tinée
Distance : 12 km (7.5 mi) -
Ascent : 300 m (984 ft). Descent : 1400 m (4593 ft).
5.5 hours of hiking.
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : breakfast, dinner. Meals not included : lunch.
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : breakfast, dinner. Meals not included : lunch.
Hike along the shores of Vens Lakes and climb to Babarottes Ridge (2509 m). Follow the Energy Trail ("Chemin de l'Energie") to "Adret de Ténibre" and descend through the forest to the town of St Etienne de Tinée.
(If there are no accommodations available in Saint Étienne de Tinée you may have to transfer straight to Isola 2000 and spend the night there in a hotel).
Day 7
From Isola 2000 to Boréon and Saint-Martin-de-Vésubie
Distance : 14 km (9 mi) -
Ascent : 600 m (1968 ft). Descent : 1000 m (3280 ft).
6,5 hours of hiking.
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : breakfast, dinner. Meals not included : lunch. Transfer : 2 transfers, about 35 min each.
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : breakfast, dinner. Meals not included : lunch. Transfer : 2 transfers, about 35 min each.
Transfer by taxi to Isola 2000. Cross over Col de Mercière Pass (2342 m). A magnificent, long descent through a broad valley takes you to Col de Salèse Pass. Hike along a balcony trail beneath Pointe des Colombrons Peak until you reach Col de Salèse Pass (2031 m). From there, descend to the village of Boréon. Transfer to Saint-Martin-de-Vésubie.
Day 8
From Saint-Martin-de-Vésubie to Saint-Grat and Belvédère
Distance : 17 km (11 mi) -
Ascent : 1200 m (3937 ft). Descent : 1300 m (4265 ft).
7.5 hours of hiking.
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : breakfast, dinner. Meals not included : lunch. Transfer : about 15 min each one.
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : breakfast, dinner. Meals not included : lunch. Transfer : about 15 min each one.
Short transfer to Boréon by taxi, which will pick you up at your hotel.
Today's long hike first takes you to Mairis Ridge, a vast open area that offers incredible views of the peaks in the Mercantour Range as well as Mediterranean coastline. From there, continue to Madone de Fenestre for a pleasant break at the refuge and sanctuary. Then make your way to Gordolasque Valley, the gateway to the Vallée des Merveilles ("Valley of Wonders") and access to the highest point in the Mercantour Range, Cime du Gélas Peak (3143 m). Short transfer to Belvédère.
Today's long hike first takes you to Mairis Ridge, a vast open area that offers incredible views of the peaks in the Mercantour Range as well as Mediterranean coastline. From there, continue to Madone de Fenestre for a pleasant break at the refuge and sanctuary. Then make your way to Gordolasque Valley, the gateway to the Vallée des Merveilles ("Valley of Wonders") and access to the highest point in the Mercantour Range, Cime du Gélas Peak (3143 m). Short transfer to Belvédère.
Day 9
From Saint Grat to Merveilles Hut
Distance : 11 km (7 mi) -
Ascent : 1000 m (3280 ft). Descent : 400 m (1312 ft).
5.5 hours of hiking.
Lodging : mountain hut. Included meals : breakfast, dinner. Meals not included : lunch.
Lodging : mountain hut. Included meals : breakfast, dinner. Meals not included : lunch.
Today's hike takes you through the legendary Vallée des Merveilles ("Valley of Wonders"), known for its many rock art and petroglyphs over 2500 years old. The more than 40,000 of these ancient artwork have made the valley a popular place to visit and earned it status as a national historical monument, meaning that specific access regulations apply in addition to those already in place within Mercantour National Park. The site has a unique atmosphere, including sedimentary rock polished by the glaciers from the Quaternary Period, landscapes that are truly one-of-a-kind in the Alps due to the wide array of colors, and the now well-known engravings that bear witness to the grazing habits of ancient peoples and their herds. Several lakes, whose colors change with the weather, contribute to the area's mysterious and mind-blowing atmosphere. Refuge des Merveilles Hut, a focal point for hikers, is one of the most popular in France.
Day 10
From Merveilles hut to Sospel
Distance : 12 km (7.5 mi) -
Ascent : 700 m (2297 ft). Descent : 930 m (3051 ft).
5.5 hours of hiking.
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : breakfast, dinner. Meals not included : lunch. Transfer : About 30 min.
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : breakfast, dinner. Meals not included : lunch. Transfer : About 30 min.
Day 10 marks the transition between the high mountains, with such majestic peaks as Mont Bégo and Grand Capelet Peak looming high above at the day's starting point, and more mellow, lower-altitude terrain near Bévéra, where the trail takes you through the area's beautiful and bucolic alpine pastures. This hike takes you past the foot of Cime du Diable Peak or "Devil's Peak" (2685 m), just thirty short kilometers from the Mediterranean Sea as the bird flies. The trail veers away from the mountain lakes and the Italian border as you continue heading south on your descent towards the coast. From Camp d'Argent, transfer by taxi to Sospel.
Day 11
From Sospel to Menton
Distance : 12 km (7.5 mi) -
Ascent : 700 m (2297 ft). Descent : 650 m (2133 ft).
5 hours of hiking.
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : breakfast. Meals not included : lunch, dinner.
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : breakfast. Meals not included : lunch, dinner.
The first part of the ascent towards the Col du Razet Pass takes you through woods surrounded by mountains. The trails on the hike offer you the chance to enjoy the striking contrast between limestone cliffs and the blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Once you reach the historic village of Castellar the final stretch of the day's adventure takes you downhill into Menton. How does taking a quick swim in the Mediterranean sound ?
Day 12
Trip end at Menton
Included meals : breakfast. Meals not included : lunch, dinner.
Your trip officially ends after breakfast.
You could enjoy
this day by discovering this beautifull town known for its lemon's
festival. Great floral gardens can be visited, as well as the Basilica
Saint-Michel or the prehistory museum. And of course you can have a
relaxing bath in the sea.
The active times are given as an indication and may vary depending on several elements (eg. weather conditions, terrain, etc.). Transfer times may also vary depending on road and traffic conditions. If necessary (eg: weather conditions, decision of local authorities, etc.), we may also be required to adapt the program for the smooth running of your trip and in the interest of the participants.
Pricing
Prices (incl. taxes) from july to september 2025
| Rooms and dorms Price per person | With person and luggage transfer |
|---|---|
| Single season | |
| 2 people 1 double room | 2565 € |
| 3 people 1 single room, 1 double room | 1945 € |
| 4 people 2 double rooms | 2175 € |
| 5 people 1 single room, 2 double rooms | 1895 € |
| 6 people 3 double rooms | 1945 € |
- Single season : From 01 July 2025 to 15 September 2025
Pricing
The price includes / does not include
The price includes
- All required transfers during the trip.
- Baggage transfers, if you selected this option, to mountain huts accessible by vehicle. Days 2, 5, and 9 are excluded.
- Lodging with half-board (breakfast and dinner), from dinner on the first night to breakfast on the last day (excluding dinner on day 11).
- The roadbook (as well as maps) for a group of two to four people.
- The "Mon Roadbook" (My Roadbook) mobile app to help guide you on your trip.
- All required transfers during the trip.
- Baggage transfers, if you selected this option, to mountain huts accessible by vehicle. Days 2, 5, and 9 are excluded.
- Lodging with half-board (breakfast and dinner), from dinner on the first night to breakfast on the last day (excluding dinner on day 11).
- The roadbook (as well as maps) for a group of two to four people.
- The "Mon Roadbook" (My Roadbook) mobile app to help guide you on your trip.
The price does not include
- Transportation to the meeting point at the start of your trip, nor from the final destination at the end of your trip.
- Lunches, dinner on day 11, drinks, and other personal expenses, tips.
- Additional fees to expedite your reservation for all trips reserved less than 15 days before the start.
- Anything that is not specified in the "included in the price" list.
Spending and other expenses during your trip:
- Picnic lunches (from €3 to €6 per person when prepared on your own).
- Picnic lunches purchased through your accommodations (approximately €12 on average per day per person).
Currencies
France is part of the Euro zone. You may find ATMs easily in the main cities and towns.
Better to have cash in the most remote areas to purchase extras (ex.: for drinks). Huts do not always accept credit cards.
Exchange rate
Better to have cash in the most remote areas to purchase extras (ex.: for drinks). Huts do not always accept credit cards.
Exchange rate