Bivouac and Trekking in Mercantour National Park - Part 2
Join an IFMGA certified guide and explore the spectacular Mercantour National Park, where a mesmerizing tapestry of diverse natural wonders awaits. Journey through high-altitude terrains along the border ridge with Italy, to witness the beauty of countless lakes and majestic peaks that grace the landscape at every turn.
Group
Alps, Southern Alps
5 Days
Jul, Aug
Fit
Intermediate
Highlights
- Behold the spectacle of the Southern Alps' starry sky
- Trek through the high-altitude border ridge with Italy.
- Uncover the hidden gems that await in Mercantour National Park.
Description
Join us on an exhilarating 5-day adventure to explore Mercantour National Park and its captivating tapestry of diverse natural wonders.
On this second part of our trek (Bivouac and Trekking in Mercantour National Park - Part 1), we continue to traverse at high altitudes through the border ridge with Italy. Along the way, we will encounter a multitude of lakes and towering peaks, creating a majestic backdrop throughout the course.
This route occasionally diverges from the official GTM, allowing us to explore even more astonishing locations. We will have the privilege of discovering hidden gems and unexpected treasures along the way. As an added bonus, we are treated to the mesmerizing spectacle of the starry sky in the Southern Alps.
Explore the entire border ridge of the Haute Tinée Valley, where remarkable highlights await. Immerse yourself in the enchanting Chemin de l'Energie and marvel at the breathtaking Lake Rabuons. Discover a multitude of other charming small lakes that dot the landscape. Venture into the Italian valleys for a captivating detour, where you'll encounter the revered Santa Ana di Vinadio sanctuary.
Embark on a scenic crossing of the most stunning Italian lakes in Mercantour. Nestled in the heart of the Alpi Marittime Natural Park, these lakes provide a beautiful backdrop, with the majestic Argentera, the highest peak of the massif, standing tall in the distance.
To maximize our progress and make the most of the day, the elevation gain during the ascent is strategically divided into multiple phases. By pacing ourselves, we will optimize our efforts and approach the heights with a carefully planned and measured approach that will ensure a steady, comfortable rhythm.
Seize this extraordinary opportunity to delve into the pristine wilderness of Mercantour National Park. Don't wait any longer— reserve your trip today!
Price includes
- Guiding fee
- Camping equipment tents
- Camping equipment sleeping bag
- Camping equipment sleeping pad
- Camping equipment cooking utensils
Price details
The mummy-style sleeping bag, the ground mat, the tarp or alternatively the bivouac tent, cooking pots and stoves, are provided free of charge to those who do not have them.
Itinerary
Day 1: Meeting and 1st Trek Day
1,380 m then positive elevation over a distance of 9 km.
Day 2: 2nd Trek Day
700 m of elevation gain over 13 km of distance.
Day 3: 3rd Trek Day
960 m of elevation gain over 14 km of distance.
Day 4: 4th Trek Day
985 m of elevation gain over 17 km of distance.
Day 5: 5th Trek Day and End of Trip
730 m of elevation gain over 20 km distance.
Dispersal will take place on this day at around 3 p.m. in the hamlet of Boréon in Saint-Martin Vésubie. At that location, a shuttle service to the village of Saint-Martin Vésubie followed by bus number 90 can provide transportation to Nice.
Details
Accommodation A mummy-style sleeping bag rated for 0 degrees Celsius for optimal warmth and comfort is mandatory due to the weather conditions. We also highly recommend bringing a tarp or bivouac tent. |
Meeting point Maison du Parc National du Mercantour. |
Equipment you will need to bring
Other gear: Here is a list of items you will need for this trip: * Backpack (70 liters minimum) * Tarp or light bivouac tent * Mummy sleeping bag * Groundsheet * Therma tights * Warm sleeping clothing (merino wool is recommended) * Warm fleece jacket * Soft hiking pants * Waterproof overtrouser * Windproof and waterproof jacket * Two spare long sleeved t-shirts * Five spare pairs of ocks * Warm down jacket * Skull cap * Sunglasses * Sunscreen * Two water bottles (1 liter each) * Energy bars * Light cutlery * A cup * Stove with gas * Newspaper (in order to dry shoes) * Hiking sticks * Hiking shoes * Light undergloves * Foue packets of paper tissues * Five garbage bags (1 liter) * Small microfiber towel (20x20 cm) * Charged headlamp * Wipes * Toothbrush
Frequently Asked Questions
How much distance will we cover on this trip?
What would happen in the event of adverse weather conditions?
How can I prepare for this trip?
About the guide
My passion is hiking and it has been since I was a child. I am a Mountain Leader, ready to make you gain altitude!
My goal is to live adventures in a wild nature. And there are as many possibilities as varied landscapes and seasons!
Always looking for new spaces, privileged and authentic moments, a preserved and wild nature... It's above all about plenitude and contemplation, trying each time to understand the beauty of the sceneries.
I am a former lawyer, also ski patroller specialized in nivology and meteorology. I cross the massif ski touring during the winter for my own pleasure.
What people are saying about Fabrice Henon
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