Haute Route : Val de Rhêmes to Tarentaise

Activity details

Haute Route Between Val de Rhêmes and Tarentaise: a memorable alpine traverse

Immerse yourself in the heart of the Alps between Italy and France, and experience a unique ski touring adventure through the Val de Rhêmes and Tarentaise. This haute route takes you through stunning alpine landscapes, featuring beautiful peaks and secret valleys, while enjoying the warm hospitality of Italian and French mountain refuges.

Each day, you will explore new horizons with varied ascents and breathtaking descents, all while discovering the rich cultural heritage of these Alpine regions.

Level and equipment

Gear List

Clothing:

• Waterproof and breathable jacket (Goretex type) with hood
• Breathable ski pants (Goretex type)
• Warm down jacket
• Fleece
• Thermal base layers
• One pair of ski socks
• Beanie and neck gaiter
• Cap
• Light gloves
• Warm and waterproof gloves

In your backpack:

• 30/35L comfortable backpack designed for ski touring (ski and ice axe carry system)
• Sunglasses (Category 4)
• Ski goggles
• High-protection sunscreen and lip balm
• Thermos or water bottle (minimum 1 liter)
• Survival blanket
• Headlamp (charged)
• Waterproof pouch with ID, CAS membership card if applicable, cash, insurance documents, and public transport pass
• Day’s picnic and snacks (picnic can also be purchased at the refuge)
• Personal first aid kit
• For overnight in the hut: sleeping liner, thermal top and spare socks, cleansing wipes (as water is not always available in huts), small toiletry kit

Technical and rescue gear:

• Skis with touring bindings, skins, ski crampons, and poles with large baskets for off-piste skiing
• Ski touring boots
• Avalanche transceiver (3 antennas minimum and marking function), shovel, and probe
• Harness, crampons (with anti-snow plates), and ice axe

Upon request, we can recommend a partner store for equipment rental.

Your outing

Day 1 :

• Elevation gain: +450m

After traveling to Val de Rhêmes, we will begin with a lovely ascent to the Benevolo Refuge (2,287m). Once settled in, there’s an option to ascend Pointe Lavassey for stunning views over the refuge and its surroundings. In the evening, enjoy the warm atmosphere and delicious Italian cuisine at the refuge.

Day 2 :

• Elevation gain: +1,100m

Explore the majestic Benevolo cirque with the ascent of Becca Traversière (3,337m), which marks the border between Valgrisenche and Val de Rhêmes.

Day 3 :

• Elevation gain: +1,200m

Head towards Pointe Calabre (3,445m) for an intense climb followed by a fantastic descent into France, arriving at the Prariond Refuge, nestled at the source of the Isère River.

Day 4 :

• Elevation gain: +1,200m

Today’s goal is the ascent of Grande Aiguille Rousse (3,482m), rewarded with a descent through north-facing valleys, offering thrilling skiing in the heart of Haute Tarentaise.

Day 5 :

• Elevation gain: +1,100m

For our final day, we will ascend Pointe de la Galise (3,343m), followed by a descent over the Glacier des Fonds, returning us to Val de Rhêmes and completing this memorable alpine traverse.