Bessans

Half in the shade, half in the sun, here are a few miles of easy walking that'll leave you free to look around at your leisure. At over 1,700 metres above sea level, take an invigorating stroll that'll plunge you deep into the mystery of waterfalls.

Description

Are you ready to faithfully follow the Arc river?
On your way along the Chemin du Petit Bonheur, you're sure to want to stop
for a family picnic. Get yourself comfortably settled at a banquet table... It
seems to have been waiting for your "gnia"* to stop here for a feast.
Under the watchful eye of the imposing Tierce peak, you continue your
journey through the heart of the meadows. Can you see its chapel, perched
at 2,973 meters?
And, with your gaze forever glued to the landscape, it takes just a few seconds
before you spot the breathtaking waterfalls on the south side. Unrestrained,
they cascade down from the glaciers of Vallonbrun and Gefret at the heart
of the Vanoise National Park. In early summer, you won't be able to take
your eyes away from the sight.
Then, in the forest of Chantelouve, you might come across some squirrels,
fearful at the passage of adventurous mountain bikers.
Before you get to the village, Le Ribon invites you to new hikes. Next time,
that's a promise…

Period of opening

From 01/05 to 15/10 daily.

Subject to favorable snow and weather conditions.

Additional welcome

The duration of hiking trails is calculated using reference paces: 300 m/h ascent, 500 m/h descent and 4 km/h on the flat.

As hazards may occur at any time on the routes, the GPX tracks provided are not contractual. They are given for information only. Riders use them at their own risk, depending on their level of technological proficiency and their understanding of the terrain.

Equipment & services

  • Picnic area
  • Car park
  • Free car park
  • Pets welcome

Prices

Free access.

Animals

Accepted

Pets allowed on leash only.

Localisation

By bus: Line S53 - Mairie/Poste stop.
By car: Park in the Town Hall parking lot.

Let's go

Itinerary overview

  • Difficulty
    Difficulty Walkers/hikers
  • Positive elevation
    Positive elevation 100 m
  • Distance
    Distance 8 km
  • Negative elevation
    Negative elevation 100 m
  • Maximum altitude
    Maximum altitude 1770
Download .GPX file Walking tour of the Bessans plain Walking tour of the Bessans plain Walking tour of the Bessans plain Walking tour of the Bessans plain