Le Sentier des vaches

This trail is very discreet, even secret. From the top of the village of Ristolas, take the forest track that runs deep into the woods towards the Ségure valley. At the 3rd hairpin bend, take the path (marked in yellow) on the left. In the cool of the larch trees, the path runs along the contour line, overlooking the village on the hillside. Depending on the time of year, beautiful wild flowers adorn the walk. The path winds its way back down to La Monta, a "martyred" hamlet hit by the wrath of wars, fires and floods, of which almost nothing remains, apart from the chapel and the refuge, an authentic old stone family home. There's also life at the campsite, with its guinguette atmosphere and guaranteed conviviality. An end of the world in the middle of nature, where you can make a stopover before returning flat out along the Guil to your starting point.

In spring and autumn, conditions are changeable, and even snow-free trails can be icy. So the reflex in the mountains is to go out well-equipped. In my bag, I slip or I hang: crampons and poles.

In winter, the right reflexes are: snowshoes, poles, gloves, hat, sun cream and... a survival blanket! Experience is essential, and knowing when to give up is sometimes preferable to taking risks. And if you're new to the mountains, we advise you to seek professional advice! Before going out, I check the Météo France Montagnes and BERA bulletins (risks and avalanches).

Show less