Exploring the hamlets of Vallouise and Pelvoux

A trail to discover the secret charm of the hamlets of the Pays des Écrins.

“You think you know the hamlets of Vallouise and Pelvoux when you go there by road. But approaching them via the footpaths is another experience altogether. Not to mention the pleasure of walking on these little-trod paths.” Marie-Geneviève Nicolas, park ranger at the Parc National des Écrins

Waysigning: one green dot and once white dotFrom the Park Centre ("Maison du Parc"), follow the road to Puy Saint-Vincent.

1. Take the path on the left towards Les Parchers and continue heading in this direction. The track runs above the Gyronde and then comes to a bridge below the hamlet of Le Grand Parcher. Cross this bridge and then cross the D994E (take care) and follow the narrow road leading up to this hamlet.
2. A short distance beyond the chapel, take a path on the left to Petit Parcher. Join the road right and follow this for a short distance.
3. Take the path for La Casse. Carry on up through La Casse and, at the top where the houses come to an end, take the path leading to the Rocher Pointu. Further on, continue straight ahead towards the Rif Paulin and Pelvoux-Le Sarret. Cross the Rif Paulin mountain stream over a sill and then continue along the canal.
4. Head down towards Pelvoux - Le Poët. At the lower end of the hamlet, cross the mountain stream La Juliane via a narrow road and then drop down to the D994E.
5. Cross the D994E (take care) to take the track opposite which leads to the Gyr mountain stream. Stay on the left-hand bank and follow the track leading to Vallouise.
6. Cross the Gyr to carry on along its right-hand bank, passing close to the campsite, to return to the Park Centre.