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Le Vallon du Prariond

Tignes and Val d'Isère

A medium length hike through gorges past grazing animals and leading towards a Col at 2957m.

Hiking Moderate

Distance
11 km
Ascent
955 m
Descent
955 m
Duration
3-4 hrs
Low Point
2.1 km
High Point
3 km
Gradient
14˚
Le Vallon du Prariond Map

Escape into the realm of ibex, chamois, and marmots where the peace and tranquility will leave you wanting to stay the night at the nearby refuge.

Description

The route starts near the bridge at the first hairpin of the Col de l'Iseran, after Val d'Isere.

It begins with a steep climb on a well-laid-out path overlooking an impressive gorge. Climbing a few hundred meters, the valley opens and you are greeted with a green lake, high mountains, and tame marmots. You will soon arrive at the Refuge du Prariond where you can stop for a coffee or lunch.

You can return to the car at this point or continue on towards the Col de la Lose with a 400m climb on a winding path up to a plateau, a little over 2700m, where Ibex graze in the summer months. The path then forks, with the right fork heading towards Col de la Lose (2957m) and Col de la Galise (2987m). You can climb to either in similar time then once at the top, you can look far down into the Italian Vallee de Cenesole. After taking in the view, you follow the same path back to the car.

Dogs are not permitted on this trail.

Difficulty

Moderate

Hiking along trails with some uneven terrain and small hills. Small rocks and roots may be present.

Low Exposure

1 out of 4

The path is on completely flat land and potential injury is limited to falling over.

Remoteness

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

between May and September

Features

  • Alpine
  • Wildlife
  • Picturesque
  • Wild flowers
  • Water features
  • Family friendly

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area