Bivouac and Trekking in Mercantour National Park - Part 3
Experience an unforgettable five-day trekking odyssey across Mercantour National Park, where untamed and diverse landscapes await. Discover the marvels of the Vallée des Merveilles and unveil the treasures of the Haute Vésubie Valley. Explore the enchanting valleys of Boréon, Madone de Fenestre, and Gordolasque, all embraced by the majestic peaks of the Alpes-Maritimes.
Group
Alps
5 Days
Jul - Sep
High
Intermediate
Highlights
- Reveal the extraordinary splendor of the Mercantour National Park
- Unveil the marvels hidden within the Vallée des Merveilles
- Experience the breathtaking sight of the Southern Alps
Description
Be part of an incredible 5-day trekking journey through Mercantour National Park as we traverse through its untamed and varied landscapes.
On this third part of the trek, (Bivouac and Trekking in Mercantour National Park - Part 1 & Part 2) we continue our adventure across the majestic mountain passes that connect with the foothills of the highest peaks in the massif. Discover the wildlife of Mercantour, including chamois, ibexes, and marmots, alongside, cascading waterfalls adding to its amazing scenic beauty.
Uncover the wonders of the Vallée des Merveilles, where numerous expansive lakes, captivating rock engravings, and two magnificent summits await. Explore the raw beauty of nature in the great outdoors as you set up your bivouac campsite under a vast expanse of stars.
We'll embark on an alternative route from the GTM, guaranteeing an escape from the sweltering Mediterranean heat during the final two days. Enjoy the coolness of higher altitudes, culminating in spectacular ridge crossings. As an added treat, you'll be able to witness the spectacle of the starry Southern Alps illuminating the night sky.
Hike through the Haute Vésubie Valley, encircled by the majestic peaks of the Alpes-Maritimes. Delight in the abundant lakes peppered throughout the area, including the serene Lac de Trecolpas, the Lac de Fenestre, and the picturesque Lac de la Foux.
Prepare to ascend to the heights of the Haute-Roya valley, where an abundance of lakes awaits, along with a foray into the Vallée des Merveilles, showcasing majestic peaks like the Cime du Diable, Mont Bégo and through the enchanting Lacs de Prals before returning to Saint-Martin Vésubie.
During this trek, we'll go forth with a relaxed tempo, gradually ascending in stages, enabling us to have ample time for the day's adventures. This way, we'll ensure that we can fully appreciate the journey and enjoy the wonders that surround us.
Reserve your spot on this exceptional trip by contacting me and explore the untainted wilderness of the Mercantour National Park.
Price includes
- Guiding fee
- Tents
- Sleeping pad
- Cooking utensils
- Sleeping bag
Price details
- The mummystyle 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
On day 1 we'll meet at Le Boréon in Saint-Martin Vésubie at 10 am.
800 m then positive elevation over a distance of 9 km.
Day 2: 2nd Trek Day
1050 m of elevation gain over 13 km of distance.
Day 3: 3rd Trek Day
700 m of elevation gain over 17 km of distance.
Day 4: 4th Trek Day
1330 m of elevation gain over 16 km of distance.
Day 5: 5th Trek Day and End of Trip
550 m of elevation gain over 17 km of distance.
Dispersal will take place on this day at around 3 pm in the village of Saint-Martin Vésubie, There, the bus n° 90 can allow you to reach Nice.
Equipment you will need to bring
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
FAQs
How can I prepare for this trip?
Preparing for a hiking trip requires physical fitness and endurance, so it's highly recommended to follow a consistent training routine beforehand. To prepare, incorporate cardiovascular and strength training exercises into your routine, such as running, jogging, and cycling. Additionally, taking short hikes in your local area can help build endurance and get you accustomed to hiking terrain.
How much distance will we cover on this trip?
On this trip, we'll be covering an average elevation gain of 880 meters per day while covering a distance of 15 km. With approximately 7 hours of dedicated walking each day, we will embark on a 5-day loop, accumulating a total elevation gain of 4,400 meters and covering a distance of 72 km.
What would happen in the event of adverse weather conditions?
Regardless of the weather forecasts, the 5-day trek will proceed as scheduled and we will adapt accordingly. It's important to keep in mind that predicting weather in mountainous areas can be challenging, and often differs from the forecasted weather. Therefore, it's recommended to not solely rely on weather apps and remain open to changes in the weather conditions.
What are some recommended accommodations near our adventure location?
About the guide
Fabrice
5.0
(4)
Mountain Leader
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.
Languages
French | English
Certificates
UIMLA
What people are saying about Fabrice
I booked a tour with Fabrice on late May, definitely the highlight of my holiday, we went on a hike around Casterino It was a relaxed hike with great sights of mountain forests and lakes, I got to see some of the local fauna and flora of the park, ibex, marmots, chamois, although not as much as they would be in the area, possibly because of the wolfs (we saw some footprints). Overall it is a great way to see the surroundings. I would definitely recommend Fabrice as a guide for your next hike!
Sergey
Прекрасно проведенное время в компании отличного гида! Всего в 2 часах от Ниццы открывается совершенно другой мир . Огромное спасибо Фабрису за удивительные места и подробные объяснения !!!
Marc
100% trusted Services and no scams at all. They will find a way to meet your request and schedules. Guide was very friendly and I really had fantastic 1 day trip! Kudos to the team involved!
Julia
It was a fabulous day in the mountains with our guide Fabrice. He really loves his jobs. It much more a passion than a job for Fabrice. He has a patience wit h his hiking guests and a lot of knowledge about local flora and fauna. We will love to hike with Fabrice again and again. Julia, Niels and Josephine
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