Lac et refuge de la Blanche

Follow the red-and-white GR 58 trail as it winds its way up along the Aigue Blanche, through the larch trees, to the Clausis Chapel. The terrain levels out, and Lake Blanche and its idyllic mountain hut come into view. Before you lie the most iconic three-thousand-meter peaks: Pointe des Sagnes Longues, Pic de Caramantran, Rocca Bianca, Tête des Toillies… (watch out for a stiff neck!). The Refuge de la Blanche is the starting point for the Tête des Toillies loop, offering the chance for an excursion to our Italian neighbors in the Varaita Valley. For the return trip, you can take the same route or choose the PR trail behind the refuge, which leads back down to the Clausis Chapel. Two options for the return trip: the shuttle bus (for a fee in July/August), which you can catch on the trail past the mines, or walk back along the same path you took on the way there. In spring and fall, conditions are unpredictable; even without snow, the trail can be icy. Therefore, when in the mountains, the rule of thumb is to “go out well-equipped.” In my backpack, I slip in or clip on: crampons and poles. In winter, the essentials are: snowshoes, poles, gloves, a hat, sunscreen, and… a survival blanket! Experience is essential, and knowing when to turn back is sometimes better than taking risks. And for newcomers to the mountains, don’t hesitate to call on a professional! Before heading out, I check the Météo France Montagnes weather reports and the BERA (avalanche and risk alerts). Starting October 1st and for a period of 3 weeks, we recommend taking the right bank of the Aigue Blanche (through the woods in the Bois du Suffie). Obligatory parking at the entrance of the village. Catering/accommodation in the village and at the refuge de la Blanche.