Where is Refuge du Plan du Lac?
France, europe
15.1 km
2.284 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're in the French Alps, Savoie to be exact, heading to Refuge du Plan du Lac. This mountain hut sits way up high at 2,370m (7,775ft) inside Vanoise National Park.
The drive starts in Val-Cenis, winding for 15.1 km (9.38 miles). Most of the road's paved, but get ready for some steep climbs, hairpin turns, and a few bumps along the way. The views just keep getting better and better as you ascend!
Now, heads up, after the parking lot for Refuge - L'auberge de Bellecombe, only authorized vehicles are allowed. Unless you have permission from Vanoise National Park, you'll need to park and hike the final stretch. Bikes aren't even allowed.
But trust me, the views are worth it. The first bit's steep, zigzagging through a sparse forest with killer views of the valley below. Once you're at the refuge, BAM! Panoramic views of Pointe de la Réchasse, Dent Parachée, Grande Casse, and glaciers galore. Don't forget to check out Chapelle Saint-Barthélemy just beyond the refuge. It's a cute little chapel at 2,284m!
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 15.1 km
- Max Elevation
- 2.284 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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