My bivouac adventure in the Vercors with Wildhartt

Hello everyone,

There are adventures that take you out of your everyday life, reconnect you with what's essential and remind you just how magnificent nature can be. That's exactly what I experienced with Wildhartt, during a 5-day bivouac on the high plateaux of the Vercors. A wild immersion between mountains, snow-covered forests and nights under the stars.

Day 1: First steps on snowshoes and introduction to the pulka

Meet at 9.30 am on the Beure plateau. The sun is slowly peeking through the fir trees, and the excitement is palpable. After meeting our guide, Martin, and collecting our equipment, we get kitted out: snowshoes on our feet, pulka loaded. Off we go for a short introductory day.

I have to admit that the pulka, that little sledge you pull behind you, was a bit intimidating. But Martin quickly put us at ease with practical advice on how to distribute the weight and move forward efficiently. The climb was gentle, and the scenery gradually opened up to snowy valleys bathed in light.

At around 3pm, we reached the Pré Peyret hut, where we set up our bivouac. The tents are set up on the snow, and the central tepee with its wood-burning stove promises a convivial evening. After a hot meal, we admire the sunset. The air is frigid, but the colours are incredible, ranging from pink to purple. A magical night begins.

Day 2: Wild traverse and summit of Tête Chevalière

After an early wake-up call in the biting cold, we pack up camp and hit the road again. The day is all about exploration. The atmosphere is almost Siberian as we make our way across the vast plains of the Vercors. The immaculate expanses stretch as far as the eye can see, and only the crunch of our snowshoes disturbs the silence.

In the afternoon, we reach the Chaumailloux hut, at the foot of Mont Aiguille. Once the pulkas have been put down, those who wish to do so set off to climb the Tête Chevalière. I hesitate a little, but decide to give it a go, and I don't regret it. Up there, the view of the eastern barrier of the Vercors is breathtaking, like a living painting. We descend and spend the night in a bivouac under the stars.

Day 3: Between rocks and wild forests

Heading due north today, for a more forested stage. Along the Rochers du Parquet, you'll enjoy splendid views of the Alps. You then cross large expanses of woodland, where hooked pines stand majestically in the snow. The atmosphere is different, more intimate.

At the end of the day, we set up camp near Jasse de la Chau. After dinner, I decide to take a little walk alone in the cold to observe the sky. Absolute silence, a sky studded with stars, and the feeling of being totally connected to nature. It was a moment I'll never forget.

Day 4: Total immersion and great distances

Today we covered 16.5 km through a variety of landscapes. After a picnic near the Pré-Grandu forest hut, we crossed atypical stretches with remarkable panoramas. Despite the fact that we're beginning to feel a little tired, the group remains motivated, buoyed by the beauty of the surroundings and the desire to share these unique moments.

Day 5: Back on the ridges and a last look at the Vercors

On this final day, we return to the southern ridges, plunging gently towards the Diois. The morning light illuminates the Baronnies and, in the distance, Mont Ventoux. The atmosphere is different: gentle, almost nostalgic. Around midday, we reached the car park on the Beure plateau, the starting point of this incredible adventure.

My assessment

This experience with Wildhartt was much more than just a trip: it was a reconnection with nature, a disconnection from everyday life and a series of memorable encounters. The guide was able to make each moment unique, with anecdotes, technical information and kindness. If you're looking for a wilderness experience, a chance to slow down and admire nature in all its splendour, I recommend this expedition with your eyes shut.

And if you're not sure: go for it. This kind of adventure is an invitation to discover a more authentic version of yourself. 🌲✨

- By Claire, 38

Claire went on our expedition: The Vercors by snowshoe and pulka. Find out more about this expedition on this link.