Tour of Queyras with bivouac nights

We meet at 9:00 AM in Ceillac to begin this first day of immersion in the breathtaking landscapes of the Queyras region. From the very first steps, we follow the valley, surrounded by flowering alpine meadows and dotted with wooden sculptures crafted by local artisans, while enjoying a viewpoint over the paragliders’ landing area in Ceillac an aerial spectacle that’s nothing short of mesmerizing.

We warm up with a steep climb that leads us to a beautiful waterfall, a refreshing prelude to our arrival at Lake Miroir. Its emerald-green waters reflect the surrounding peaks in perfect tranquility.

We continue our route toward Lake Sainte Anne, a true high-altitude gem. Its sky-blue waters stand in stark contrast to the ancient glaciers, now transformed into sharp, rocky peaks that proudly reach for the sky. This majestic site invites quiet contemplation, a blend of raw nature and serene mountain heights.

We set up our bivouac near the lake, in an idyllic setting to end this first day. Immersed in nature and under the stars, we share a moment of well-deserved rest and camaraderie, in the heart of this spectacular alpine scenery a prelude to an adventure full of discoveries.

On this second day, we gain altitude as we head toward the Col Girardin, perched at 2700 meters. The landscape quickly changes as we ascend along a steady trail, lined with rocky outcrops and sparse alpine vegetation. Once at the top, the view opens up over the Ubaye valley and the Chambeyron massif an impressive chain of peaks stretching across the horizon.

We begin our descent gently into the Maljasset valley. Nestled in this hidden valley, we come across the hamlet of Maljasset, a charming mountain village with traditional stone houses, bearing witness to a way of life deeply rooted in harmony with nature. A short pause allows us to soak in the peaceful atmosphere before tackling the second part of the day’s trek.

We then begin the climb toward the Col des Houers. The scenery gradually becomes more rugged, stark, and striking. Vast rock slabs and arid slopes make it feel like we’re walking through an almost extraterrestrial world far from the green meadows of the day before.

We set up our camp along the way, in this raw and majestic setting perfect for disconnecting and being in awe of the surroundings. As the day draws to a close, surrounded by these dramatic landscapes, we enjoy a simple and authentic evening, embraced by the silence of the highlands, before continuing our journey toward new horizons the following day.

This third day marks the most intense stage of the journey. We travel through a grand and wild landscape, surrounded by alpine streams, remote valleys, and impressive ridgelines that accompany us throughout our hike.

We begin our trek toward the Val d’Escreins, a protected area nestled between mountains, renowned for its exceptional biodiversity. Clear mountain streams run alongside us, while the flower-filled meadows and coniferous forests are home to marmots, chamois, and a multitude of mountain birds. This unspoiled valley, often far from the crowds, offers a rare feeling of solitude and a deep connection with the natural elements.

By the end of the day, we reach an even more secluded valley, near the Chalance shepherd’s hut. It is here that we set up our bivouac, in a peaceful and silent landscape that invites reflection and stillness. This timeless place offers us an unforgettable evening between sky and mountains, wrapped in the serenity of the Val d’Escreins.

Today, we set out to conquer the Pic d’Escreins, the highest point of our journey. The ascent begins gradually, leading us through a mineral landscape where nature reveals itself in all its raw power and grandeur. With each step, we draw closer to this emblematic summit, as the surrounding valleys slowly unfold before our eyes.

At the summit of the Pic d’Escreins, a breathtaking 360° panorama awaits us: a succession of ridgelines, wild valleys, and jagged peaks stretching as far as the eye can see. In this suspended moment, we take the time to savor the altitude and reflect on the distance we've traveled.

We then begin the descent toward the Belvédère, following a route marked by fascinating geological features: folded strata, oddly shaped rocks, and striking contrasts of color line our path. The scenery remains spectacular, as if the very terrain is telling the ancient story of these mountains.

We finally arrive in Mourière, where we will spend our last night at altitude. This peaceful place, surrounded by silence and open space, will be our final camp among the peaks. A simple yet powerful evening shared together, before returning to the valley the next day.

On this last day, we make our way gently back down to Ceillac, following a beautiful balcony trail that overlooks the valley. Throughout this peaceful morning walk, we enjoy one last time the breathtaking panoramic views taking in the peaks we’ve traversed over the past days and the valleys we’ve explored.

This smooth descent offers a graceful transition, still high above the valley floor yet gradually bringing us back down to earth.

Once we arrive in Ceillac, our starting point, we bring this beautiful trekking adventure to a close. Here ends our five-day journey, filled with emotion, discovery, and shared moments. We take a final moment together to reflect on the experience, exchange impressions, and relive our favorite highlights before each of us heads off on our own path again, hearts full of memories and legs still echoing with the trails of the Queyras.

See you soon for new mountain adventures!