Guestbook
26 entries.
Carrard Dahlia
from
Lausanne
wrote on 15 August 2024
at
10h36
The 2 of us set off from Pont de Nant on 1st August, heading for the Cabane de la Tourche. No sooner had we started walking than some heavy clouds rolled in and it didn't take long for the rain to start pouring down on us. So we decided not to go over the Col des Martinets and to take the alternative route so as not to take any unnecessary risks. We took a short break at the Euzanne mountain pasture where we were very kindly welcomed by the son and then by the parents and their impressive Newfoundland! Once we arrived at the Tourche hut, we rushed off for the delicious tart of the day and cookies. What a treat! The next day we set off for the Lui d'Aoùt refuge via Bella Creta. The scenery is magnificent. On the 3rd day, we hiked from Lui d'Août to the Refuge de Dorbon, with a stopover for soup at the Cabane Rambert. For us, this day's walk was the most beautiful in terms of scenery and probably also the one that required the most effort. The Dorbon refuge was a magnificent discovery. An absolutely peaceful place, run by beautiful people. You feel right at home. Before the meal, a mentalist was there and blew us all away with his most improbable tricks. On the 4th and final day, we left Dorbon for Pont de Nant. With a coffee stop in Derborance, followed by soup in Anzeindaz. This tour was a feast for the eyes, the calves and the stomach. The whole route was very well signposted - well done to those who maintain the paths! What a job! 🙂 The rain came and went, but it didn't stop us from walking like... Read more
The 2 of us set off from Pont de Nant on 1st August, heading for the Cabane de la Tourche. No sooner had we started walking than some heavy clouds rolled in and it didn't take long for the rain to start pouring down on us. So we decided not to go over the Col des Martinets and to take the alternative route so as not to take any unnecessary risks.
We took a short break at the Euzanne mountain pasture where we were very kindly welcomed by the son and then by the parents and their impressive Newfoundland!
Once we arrived at the Tourche hut, we rushed off for the delicious tart of the day and cookies. What a treat!
The next day we set off for the Lui d'Aoùt refuge via Bella Creta. The scenery is magnificent.
On the 3rd day, we hiked from Lui d'Août to the Refuge de Dorbon, with a stopover for soup at the Cabane Rambert. For us, this day's walk was the most beautiful in terms of scenery and probably also the one that required the most effort.
The Dorbon refuge was a magnificent discovery. An absolutely peaceful place, run by beautiful people. You feel right at home. Before the meal, a mentalist was there and blew us all away with his most improbable tricks.
On the 4th and final day, we left Dorbon for Pont de Nant. With a coffee stop in Derborance, followed by soup in Anzeindaz.
This tour was a feast for the eyes, the calves and the stomach. The entire route is very well signposted - and well done to those who maintain the paths! What a job! 🙂
The rain was there intermittently but didn't stop us walking as planned.
A word of advice: don't take the sandwiches offered by the huts for lunch, but stop along the way at one of the refuges for a soup, a cold plate and/or a tart. It's much better! Collapse
Gilles
from
St
wrote on 5 August 2024
at
16h18
Well done and thank you for this great moment of happiness in a magnificent setting. The 4 of us set off from Pont de Nant last Monday, and from the first day we were won over by Gérald's warm welcome. The route to Derborence, suspended in the greenery and crests of Argentina, was rewarded by Jean Michel's hospitality. It was a beautiful stage to Le Grall, the Rambert refuge, where the eight ibexes delighted us in an idyllic setting at 2583 m. The baths at Ovronnaz were restorative, with the TSD there and back, before the well-run Fenestral refuge, a paradise on earth. And the exhilarating route between Démecles and the Tourche refuge is really to be recommended on the path above the void (perhaps a few cables will be needed for feet that are not very mountaineer-friendly...). ) The descent via the Croix de Javerne and the Hole de l'Ours is well worth the effort... Our 260th anniversary reunion was a real pleasure, and thank you Gilbert for all the information.
Well done and thank you for this great moment of happiness in a magnificent setting. The 4 of us set off from Pont de Nant last Monday, and from the first day we were won over by Gérald's warm welcome. The route to Derborence, suspended in the greenery and crests of Argentina, was rewarded by Jean Michel's hospitality. It was a beautiful stage to Le Grall, the Rambert refuge, where the eight ibexes delighted us in an idyllic setting at 2583 m. The baths at Ovronnaz were restorative, with the TSD there and back, before the well-run Fenestral refuge, a paradise on earth. And the exhilarating route between Démecles and the Tourche refuge is really to be recommended, with its path over the void (you may need to add a few cables for feet that aren't very keen on climbing...). )
The descent via the croix de Javerne and the trou de l'Ours is well worth the effort... Our 260th anniversary reunion was a real pleasure and thank you Gilbert for all the information.... Collapse
Josette Mauron
from
Dijon
wrote on 4 August 2024
at
7h31
We returned a few days ago from the wonderful adventure that is the Tour des Muverans, our eyes, hearts and heads full of enchanting memories. We covered the route in an anti-clockwise direction, and I'd like to thank Gilbert, who was in charge of answering enquiries, for all the information, photos and other useful documents. Incidentally, we regret that we did not set off from Pont-de-Nant as he had suggested; it seemed preferable to us to choose Solalex, which is what we did. A bad choice: firstly, the pay car park is very (too) expensive. Secondly, as we had a fairly long car journey, we came the day before and slept there. And that, above all, was the wrong choice: the staff, only French compatriots it seems, are hardly friendly and rather off-putting, the prices are high for what is served and the smiles are absent. Fortunately, a short and pleasant first stop allowed us to discover Gérald's friendliness at La Varre! An unforgettable evening... The rest of the itinerary went very well: La Tourche, Sorniot, Lui d'Aout - everywhere, we were welcomed wonderfully, the food was excellent and the duvets clean. A special mention for Jean-Michel from Derborence: everything here is superlative! Back in our car, we left for a last night in Villars, where everything went well. We had cancelled at Solalex because we were disgusted by the first experience. Thank you all, and we look forward to returning to these beautiful mountains one day!
We returned a few days ago from the wonderful adventure that is the Tour des Muverans, with our eyes, hearts and heads full of enchanting memories.
We covered the route in an anti-clockwise direction, and I'd like to thank Gilbert, who was in charge of answering enquiries, for all the information, photos and other useful documents.
Incidentally, we regret that we did not set off from Pont-de-Nant as he had suggested; it seemed preferable to us to choose Solalex, which is what we did.
A bad choice: firstly, the pay car park is very (too) expensive. Secondly, as we had a fairly long car journey, we came the day before and slept there. And that, above all, was the wrong choice: the staff, only French compatriots it seems, are hardly friendly and rather off-putting, the prices are high for what is served and the smiles are absent.
Fortunately, a short and pleasant first stop allowed us to discover Gérald's friendliness at La Varre! An unforgettable evening...
The rest of the itinerary went very well: La Tourche, Sorniot, Lui d'Aout - everywhere, we were welcomed wonderfully, the food was excellent and the duvets clean.
A special mention for Jean-Michel from Derborence: everything here is superlative!
Back in our car, we left for a last night in Villars, where everything went well. We had cancelled at Solalex because we were disgusted by the first experience.
Thank you all, and we look forward to returning to these beautiful mountains one day! Collapse
Andréa
from
Grand Lancy
wrote on 23 July 2024
at
10h55
We set off from Derborence to do the tour in 4 days and three nights, following the directions on the site and Gilbert Carrard's invaluable advice. Thank you Gilbert! The first day (Derborence-Rambert) immediately plunged us into a beautiful mountain atmosphere, with still quite a bit of snow around the Col de la Forcla. The third day (Demècre-Pont du Nant) was tough but incredible, with aerial paths through the Dents de Morcles before we reached the Col des Martinets! The long descent from Martinets to Pont du Nant finished us off 🙂 Wonderful trip!
We set off from Derborence to do the tour in 4 days and three nights, following the directions on the site and Gilbert Carrard's invaluable advice. Thank you Gilbert!
The first day (Derborence-Rambert) immediately plunged us into a beautiful mountain atmosphere, with still quite a bit of snow around the Col de la Forcla. The third day (Demècre-Pont du Nant) was tough but incredible, with aerial paths through the Dents de Morcles before we reached the Col des Martinets! The long descent Martinets/Pont du Nant finished us off! 🙂
Magnificent trip!... Collapse
Annegien Kok
from
Amsterdam
wrote on 23 July 2024
at
10h26
We just returned from an awesome 4 day hike ( 17- 20 July 2024) . The weather was wonderful, no rain al all. We started at Ovronnaz chairlift to Jorasse and an easy walk to Cabane Demecre. O course we took a swim in lac de Fully. Next day too Pont du Nant; we skipped Passage col de Martinez ( advice from the nice ladies in cabane la Tourche) and walked alle the way down and up through the fields, passed chez Eugenie ( Rivella-stop) . Next day Pont de Nant-Derborende ( easy etappe) and the last Derborence_Ovronnaz. We skipped cabane Rambert and instead went straight down following the path down too the farm of Chamosense and walked further down too the Loutze (Rivella stop) and ended our great adventure in Ovronnaz.
We just returned from an awesome 4 day hike ( 17- 20 July 2024) .
The weather was wonderful, no rain al all. We started at Ovronnaz chairlift to Jorasse and an easy walk to Cabane Demecre. O course we took a swim in lac de Fully. Next day too Pont du Nant; we skipped Passage col de Martinez ( advice from the nice ladies in cabane la Tourche) and walked alle the way down and up through the fields, passed chez Eugenie ( Rivella-stop) . Next day Pont de Nant-Derborende ( easy etappe) and the last Derborence_Ovronnaz. We skipped cabane Rambert and instead went straight down following the path down too the farm of Chamosense and walked further down too the Loutze (Rivella stop) and ended our great adventure in Ovronnaz.... Collapse
Christian Mourier
from
Fontenu
wrote on 9 July 2024
at
11h58
Hello everyone! We're back from the Tour, which has 5 stages. A little too early this year, with the Derborence-Rambert stage taking more than 9 hours, because of the snow and the fact that the markers were invisible (under the snow). Our group of 4 decided to split into 2, with the option of returning to Derbo via the Jorasse chairlift, after an overnight stay at Lui D'Aout. (One of us had lung problems). Lots of flowers, and we escaped the rain for all 5 days! Thanks to all the staff at the refuges, with a +++ for Derborence, and to Gilbert for his advice on preparation.
Hello everyone!
We're back from the Tour, which has 5 stages.
A little too early this year, with the Derborence-Rambert stage taking more than 9 hours, because of the snow and the fact that the markers were invisible (under the snow).
Our group of 4 decided to split into 2, with the option of returning to Derbo via the Jorasse chairlift, after an overnight stay at Lui D'Aout. (One of us had lung problems).
Lots of flowers, and we escaped the rain for all 5 days!
Thanks to all the staff at the refuges, with a +++ for Derborence, and to Gilbert, for his preparation advice.... Collapse
Olivia and Damien
wrote on 14 August 2022
at
12h44
A sublime tour completed in 3 days, starting at Pont-de-Nant, with a stop at the Dorbon gite where we were warmly welcomed, both by the owners and by the other hikers. Then it was a fine climb up to the Fenestral hut, where we were again more than welcome, full and energised after a balmy night. What marvels we experienced during these 3 days, out of time, without a network, wandering through the fantastic landscapes Mother Nature has to offer. We had the chance to meet Gilbert just before the climb to the Col des Martinets, who gave us the energy we needed to finish this beautiful stage of the Tour des Muverans. Thanks to the Tour's official website, we were able to organise our rides perfectly. All we want to do is go back 🙂 Olivia and Damien, Neuchâtel.
A sublime tour completed in 3 days, starting at Pont-de-Nant, with a stop at the Dorbon gite where we were warmly welcomed, both by the owners and by the other hikers. Then it was a fine climb up to the Fenestral hut, where we were again more than welcome, full and energised after a balmy night.
What marvels we experienced during these 3 days, out of time, without a network, wandering through the fantastic landscapes Mother Nature has to offer.
We had the chance to meet Gilbert just before the climb to the Col des Martinets, who gave us the energy we needed to finish this beautiful stage of the Tour des Muverans.
Thanks to the Tour's official website, we were able to organise our rides perfectly. We just want to go back 🙂
Olivia and Damien, Neuchâtel.... Collapse
TdM
wrote on 8 August 2022
at
12h45
Our group of 11 from the Cévennes was happy to come to the cool of the Swiss Alps. Our 5-day trip was a marvel for everyone, and in everyone's opinion it went from strength to strength (we went clockwise). everyone enjoyed the intermediate stops, either for a tart, cheese or dried meat, and even the Rivella: a discovery. The landscapes, sometimes bucolic, sometimes mineral, are breathtaking. The accommodation is pleasant, and some of it offers magnificent scenery, providing a source of energy for the next stage. One thing that surprised and delighted us: if you want to see MtBlanc in all its splendour, along with its neighbours the Drus, etc., do the Tour des Muverans, or TdM for short, rather than the TMB, Tour du Mont-Blanc for short. The view of the M-Blanc massif is fabulous, and lasts for days... Another surprise was the appearance on the Col des Martinets of a balancing shaman hopping along this tricky section, which enabled some of us to pass the obstacle with our fingers in our noses. Thank you, thank you a thousand times over for all your hard work! Les Escapadeurs de St. Jean du Gard
Our group of 11 from the Cévennes was happy to come to the cool of the Swiss Alps. Our 5-day trip was a marvel for everyone and in everyone's opinion went from strength to strength (we did it clockwise). everyone enjoyed the intermediate stops either for a pie, cheese or dried meat, and even the Rivella: a discovery.
even the Rivella: a discovery.
The landscapes, sometimes bucolic, sometimes mineral, are breathtaking. The accommodation is pleasant, and some of it offers magnificent scenery, providing a source of energy for the next stage.
One thing that surprised and delighted us: if you want to see MtBlanc in all its splendour, along with its neighbours the Drus, etc., do the Tour des Muverans, or TdM for short, rather than the TMB, Tour du Mont-Blanc for short. The view of the M-Blanc massif is fabulous, and lasts for days...
Another surprise was the appearance on the Col des Martinets of a balancing shaman hopping along this tricky section, which enabled some of us to pass the obstacle with our fingers in our noses.
Thank you, thank you a thousand times over for all your hard work!
Les Escapadeurs de St. Jean du Gard... Collapse
TdM
wrote on 8 August 2022
at
12h00
Superb 5-day solo tour at the end of July 2022 to make the most of the scenery, fauna, flora... and the huts! Day 1: Derborence - Pont de Nant Day 2: Pont de Nant - La Tourche (via the alternative route via Trou à l'Ours/Euzanne/Croix de Javerne) Day 3: La Tourche - Demècre (via the alternative route that passes below the ridges via Chalet Neuf) Day 4: Demècre - Rambert Day 5: Rambert - Derborence It's true that the 3rd day's stage was very short. But I was lucky enough to spend the afternoon watching a dozen ibex that had taken up residence in the area around the Demècre hut, and the place itself is simply magical, with an almost 360° view of the surroundings. And above all, what a sunset! A real favourite! As for choosing the alternative routes, I hike alone and am sometimes prone to vertigo, so be careful. Note that these trails are not at all "boring" and are surprisingly varied in terms of scenery! You should also know that the Trou à l'Ours is literally a hole, a narrow passage through a rocky mass, and that it can be difficult to cross with very large rucksacks and without the help of a second person (to pass the rucksacks). On a slightly unrelated but not overly serious note, the region is suffering badly from drought and a lack of rainfall this year. Some of the rivers you can see on the maps are completely dry and you can't count on them to provide you with water... My water filter came in extremely handy on this tour, so that I could drink the water from the Tourche, Demècre and Rambert rivers, tap water which is... Read more
Superb 5-day solo tour at the end of July 2022 to make the most of the landscapes, wildlife, flora and cabins!
Day 1: Derborence - Pont de Nant
Day 2: Pont de Nant - La Tourche (via the Trou à l'Ours/Euzanne/Croix de Javerne route)
Day 3: La Tourche - Demècre (via the alternative route that passes beneath the ridges via Chalet Neuf)
Day 4: Demècre - Rambert
Day 5: Rambert - Derborence
It's true that the 3rd day's stage was very short. But I was lucky enough to spend the afternoon watching a dozen ibex that had taken up residence in the area around the Demècre hut, and the place itself is simply magical, with an almost 360° view of the surroundings. And above all, what a sunset! A real favourite!
As for choosing the alternative routes, I hike alone and am sometimes prone to vertigo, so be careful. Note that these trails are not at all "boring" and are surprisingly varied in terms of scenery! You should also know that the Trou à l'Ours is literally a hole, a narrow passage through a mass of rock, and that it can be difficult to cross with very large rucksacks and without the help of a second person (to pass the rucksacks).
On a slightly unrelated but not overly serious note, the region is suffering badly from drought and a lack of rainfall this year. Some of the rivers that you can see on the maps are completely dry and you can't count on them for supplies... My water filter came in extremely handy on this tour so that I could drink the water from the Tourche, Demècre and Rambert rivers, tap water which is basically undrinkable.
To conclude, it was a magnificent tour with a wide variety of landscapes, plenty of wildlife, almost impeccable signposting (it was a bit tricky in the scree between Rambert and the Forcle lakes, but otherwise perfect) and top-notch huts!
I wish a lot of fun to the next people who embark on this incredible tour!... Collapse
TdM
wrote on 8 August 2022
at
10h44
This summer of 2022 was a truly extraordinary experience for my family and me, and a real surprise for us. Indeed, for the first time in over 20 years, prompted by the international situation and global warming, we've left Majorca and Puglia, our two usual regions for our annual holiday, behind. Instead of aperitifs on the beach, our son wants to take us for a walk. What a funny idea! Without any conviction, we left our car in Solalex on 21 July. Bags on our backs and hands clutching our brand new babies, we set off up the 4x4 road to Anzeinde, leaving behind a path that a hiker we'd met in the car park had judged too steep for us. Our looks leave no doubt as to our abilities... After much effort and much grumbling, we arrived at a gà®te called La Varre. The first thing we noticed was that the proprietor was not stingy with either his kindness, the rations served or his sound advice! Following on from this, in the afternoon, full and rested, we made our way down to the Auberge du Pont-de-Nant, with an idea germinating in our heads, thanks to that wonderful Gérald de La Varre, to continue the next day in the direction of the La Tourche hut, along a pleasant and relatively shaded path, passing through places with names that sing so well of the terroir of our mountains - Euzanne, Javerne... When we arrived at the Tourche hut, we were greeted by a smiling caretaker and her extraordinary tarts, so we were able to quench our thirst for energy and boost our spirits! What's more, we met our namesake there, a well-informed connoisseur with infectious enthusiasm, who finally convinced us to continue our journey, albeit at our own pace.... Read more
This summer of 2022 was a truly extraordinary experience for my family and me, and a real surprise for us. Indeed, for the first time in over 20 years, prompted by the international situation and global warming, we've left Majorca and Puglia, our two usual regions for our annual holiday, behind. Instead of aperitifs on the beach, our son wants to take us for a walk. What a funny idea!
Without any conviction, we left our car in Solalex on 21 July. Bags on our backs and hands clutching our brand new babies, we set off up the 4x4 road to Anzeinde, leaving behind a path that a hiker we'd met in the car park had judged too steep for us. Our looks leave no doubt as to our abilities...
After much effort and much grumbling, we arrived at a gà®te called La Varre. The first thing we noticed was that the proprietor was not stingy with either his kindness, the rations served or his sound advice!
Following on from this, in the afternoon, full and rested, we made our way down to the Auberge du Pont-de-Nant, with an idea germinating in our heads, thanks to that wonderful Gérald de La Varre, to continue the next day in the direction of the La Tourche hut, along a pleasant and relatively shaded path, passing through places with names that sing so well of the terroir of our mountains - Euzanne, Javerne...
When we arrived at the Tourche hut, we were greeted by a smiling caretaker and her extraordinary tarts, so we were able to quench our thirst for energy and boost our spirits!
What's more, we met our namesake there, a well-informed connoisseur with infectious enthusiasm, who finally convinced us to continue our journey, albeit at our own pace. With our map unfurled and our smartphone in hand, he helped us make the calls we needed to ensure we had roofs over our heads and places to stay during the stages we planned together, taking into account our lack of experience...
Six days later, having admired some absolutely extraordinary scenery, having seen several ibexes and two or three marmots, my eyes and head full of memories, proud as can be to have really completed this wonderful Tour des Muverans, I had a strange feeling when I got back behind the wheel. Proud and happy, tired, yes, but above all sad to be leaving these mountains and all the people I've met.
But in the end, one thing is certain: we're going to be leaving Puglia and Mallorca behind a lot more! Collapse
TdM
wrote on 16 August 2021
at
12h45
A magnificent 4-day tour. We were lucky enough to have clear weather, which gave us breathtaking views of the Mont Blanc massif, the Combins, the Weisshorn, the Dent Blanche, the Matterhorn and even some of the Bernese 4,000 - just magical! The tour takes you through a wide variety of environments, from flower-filled meadows to the mineral world, passing through moorland and larch and arolla forests - what a treasure trove. As for the wildlife, marmots, chamois, ibex and bearded vultures are just waiting to be discovered! A wide choice of huts, giving you plenty of planning options. Definitely a magnificent tour.
A magnificent 4-day tour. We were lucky enough to have clear weather, which gave us breathtaking views of the Mont Blanc massif, the Combins, Weisshorn, Dent Blanche, Matterhorn, etc. and even some of the Bernese 4,000 - just magical!
The tour takes you through a wide variety of environments, from flower-filled meadows to the mineral world, passing through moorland and larch and arolla forests - what a richness!
As for the fauna, marmots, chamois, ibex and bearded vultures are all to be seen!
There's a wide choice of huts, giving you plenty of options for planning.
Definitely a magnificent tour.... Collapse
TdM
wrote on 26 April 2021
at
12h45
We were two friends who had decided to do the tour in 4 days. We planned the tour as follows Stage 1: Derborence - Cabane du Fenestral Stage 2: Cabane du Fenestral - La Tourche Stage 3: La Tourche - La Vare Stage 4: La Vare - Derborence The first stage is a fairly strenuous 8-9 hour walk. But we decided to do it this way to free up more time on the following days and be in 'holiday' mode. Even though we were exhausted after the first day, the following days we were able to really enjoy the tour, without stressing ourselves out. We left at 9am in the morning, taking advantage of eating our soluble pasta at lunchtime, arriving at the hut around 2pm-3pm. On the last day, we arrived at La Vare at 1pm. We made the most of this magnificent place, with an extraordinary hut keeper (Gérald). La Vare was incredible in terms of hospitality. Le Fenestral was also very good with the volunteers, the location and the breathtaking view. However, I was a little disappointed with the Tourche, which was a little too much in the "tourist" mode and less in the "mountain spirit". In any case, it's a good thing we had this pandemic, otherwise we wouldn't have had the idea of doing this tour. It's clear that we'll be doing it again, it's quite simply 4 days where you can see some magnificent scenery and meet some great people. I highly recommend it. Even without any specific preparation, it's clearly doable in 3-4 days.
We were two friends who had decided to do the tour in 4 days. We planned the tour as follows
Stage 1: Derborence - Cabane du Fenestral
Stage 2: Cabane du Fenestral - La Tourche
Stage 3: La Tourche - La Vare
Stage 4: La Vare - Derborence
The first stage is a fairly strenuous 8-9 hour walk. But we decided to do it this way to free up more time on the following days and be in 'holiday' mode.
Even though we were exhausted after the first day, the following days we were able to really enjoy the tour, without stressing ourselves out. We left at 9am in the morning, taking advantage of our soluble pasta lunch to arrive at the hut at around 2pm-3pm.
On the last day, we arrived at La Vare at 1pm. We made the most of this magnificent place, with an extraordinary hut keeper (Gérald).
La Vare was incredible in terms of hospitality. Le Fenestral was also very good with the volunteers, the location and the breathtaking views.
However, we were a little disappointed with La Tourche, which was a little too much in the "tourist" mode and less in the "mountain spirit".
In any case, it's a good thing we had this pandemic, otherwise we wouldn't have had the idea of doing this tour. It's clear that we'll be doing it again, it's quite simply 4 days where you can see magnificent landscapes and meet wonderful people.
I highly recommend it. Even without any specific preparation, it's clearly doable in 3-4 days.... Collapse
TdM
wrote on 16 August 2020
at
12h45
We are two young mountain enthusiasts who did the tour in 2 days. With Les Plans-sur-Bex as our starting point, we set off in a clockwise direction to spend the night at the Rambert hut. It was a very charming first day, with idyllic scenery. After 27 km on our feet, we were happy to arrive and enjoy a little white wine with chestnut liqueur! 😉 We set off the next morning at 7am for the second and final stage, motivated and ready to take full advantage of this magnificent environment. Halfway along the route, we met Gilbert who advised us to take the Col des Martinets. Magnificent, but so tiring! We returned to Les Plans-sur-Bex at the end of the day after 34 km from Rambert. An incredible itinerary, but very physical in 2 days! Thank you and long live alpine hiking!
We are two young mountain enthusiasts who did the tour in 2 days.
With Les Plans-sur-Bex as our starting point, we set off in a clockwise direction to spend the night at the Rambert hut.
It was a very charming first day, with idyllic scenery. After 27 km on our feet, we were happy to arrive and enjoy a little white wine with chestnut liqueur 😉
We set off the next morning at 7am for the second and final stage, motivated and ready to take full advantage of this magnificent environment.
Halfway along the route, we met Gilbert who advised us to take the Col des Martinets. Magnificent, but so tiring! We returned to Les Plans-sur-Bex at the end of the day after 34 km from Rambert. An incredible itinerary, but very physical in 2 days!
Thank you and long live alpine hiking! Collapse
TdM
wrote on 10 August 2020
at
12h45
Tour of the Muveran in 4 days/3 nights in early August 2020 Jorasse - Au d'Arbignon Au d'Arbignon - Pont de Nant Pont de Nant - Derborence Derborence - Ovronnaz Very nice tour!!! Definitely worth doing again. Technically not very complicated (be careful, there may still be a little snow on the summits... even in summer). We took the TDM variants (well signposted) to avoid the more exposed sections. The trou à l'ours (a variant of the Tdm between La Tourche and Pont de Nant) is very nice (don't take the shortcut directly to Pont de Nant - you'll miss out). For refuges: At Au d'Arbignon, don't be afraid to be woken up by the cows at 5am. The atmosphere is very rustic, but also very cheap. The food at Pont de Nant is very, very good. The refuge at Lac de Derborence makes too much of its lakeside location. Personally, next time I'll push on to the Dorbon refuge, which looks a lot nicer. Thanks to the signposter I met at La Tourche for the information on the TdM variant.
Tour of the Muveran in 4 days/3 nights in early August 2020
Jorasse - Au d'Arbignon
Au d'Arbignon - Pont de Nant
Pont de Nant - Derborence
Derborence - Ovronnaz
A beautiful tour!!! Definitely worth doing again. Technically not very complicated (beware, there may still be a little snow on the summits... even in summer). We took the TDM variants (well signposted) to avoid the more exposed sections.
The trou à l'ours (a variant of the Tdm between La Tourche and Pont de Nant) is very nice (don't take the shortcut directly to Pont de Nant - you'll miss out).
For the refuges:
At Au d'Arbignon, don't be afraid of being woken up by the cows at 5am. The atmosphere is very rustic, but also very cheap.
The food at Pont de Nant is very, very good.
The refuge at Lac de Derborence makes too much of its lakeside location. Personally, next time I'll push on to the Dorbon refuge, which looks a lot nicer.
Thanks to the signposter I met at La Tourche for the information on the TdM variant... Collapse
TdM
wrote on 27 July 2020
at
12h45
We did the Tour des Muverans as a family with our 3 children and our aà®né's girlfriend from 19 to 24/07/2020 in the anti-clockwise direction, as we had been advised, with Pont de Nant as the starting point. We were all enchanted and delighted by the route, its fantastic scenery, its flora and fauna... A real wellness cure, not forgetting the wonderful cabins: La Tourche, Fenestral and Rambert! The signposting is impeccable and the paths well maintained. We also met some very nice people... The weather was exceptional, with a few showers at the end of the day... We passed through Euzane and Javerne, then the alternative route via Au-d'Arbignon. As for the children, they took the normal path and even went as far as the Dent de Morcles from Fenestral, which remains one of their best memories! The whole hike was a real pleasure! A real little paradise in the wild! A very big THANK YOU to Gilbert for all his invaluable advice and his availability during our discussions, which enabled us to make the most of this grandiose setting and reassured me about the aerial passages...
We did the Tour des Muverans as a family with our 3 children and our aà®né's girlfriend from 19 to 24/07/2020 counter-clockwise, as we had been advised, with Pont de Nant as the starting point.
We were all enchanted and delighted by the route, its fantastic scenery, its flora and fauna... A real wellness cure, not forgetting the wonderful cabins: La Tourche, Fenestral and Rambert! The signposting is impeccable and the paths well maintained...
We also met some very nice people... The weather was exceptional, with a few showers at the end of the day...
We passed through Euzane and Javerne, then the alternative route via Au-d'Arbignon. As for the children, they took the normal path and even went as far as the Dent de Morcles from Fenestral, which remains one of their best memories!
The whole hike was a real pleasure! A real little paradise of nature!
A very big THANK YOU to Gilbert for all his invaluable advice and his availability during our discussions, which enabled us to make the most of this grandiose setting and reassured me about the aerial passages...... Collapse
TdM
wrote on 11 July 2020
at
12h46
The TdM is a magnificent tour, and the route is extremely well signposted and maintained. The few exposed areas with oak trees and the alternative to the Col des Martinets, which passes through La Croix de Javerne and is very pretty, make it easy for those less comfortable to complete the tour. The views along the way are superb and varied. Having done the tour in one day, I can't comment on the huts, although the Fenestral hut offers a majestic view. I recommend doing the tour counter-clockwise and taking 3-4 days. Well done to the team who maintain this tour!
The TdM is a magnificent tour, and the route is extremely well signposted and maintained. The few exposed areas with oak trees and the alternative to the Col des Martinets, which passes through La Croix de Javerne and is very pretty, make it easy for those less comfortable to complete the tour. The views along the way are superb and varied. Having done the tour in one day, I can't comment on the huts, although the Fenestral hut offers a majestic view. I recommend doing the tour counter-clockwise and taking 3-4 days.
Well done to the team who maintain this tour! Collapse
Christine
wrote on 4 October 2019
at
12h46
We completed this famous "Tour des Muverans" at the end of last week and we're very happy we did! In the end, here are our stages: * departure from Belgium on the evening of 24 September, my husband preferring to ride at night * Wednesday 25: rest, ride to Montreux, then climb to Pont de Nant, dinner and 1st night there, TB * Thursday 26/9 : vallon de Nant (rain), Col des Martinets (cloudy but dry, saw a hare), Col des Perris blancs (chocards, ibex), descent to the Cabane de La Tourche, supper and 2nd night, with a beautiful sunset and magnificent views of both Lake Geneva and the Mont-Blanc Massif * Friday 27 (French Community Day, public holiday in Belgium): very windy, very cool but dry and quite sunny, La Rionda, Col du Demècre and Fenestral (herd of chamois), dinner and 3rd night, TB, very warm welcome, magnificent renovation; saw marmots *Saturday 28, the longest day (Sorniot closed during the week, Dorbon full) : Petit pré (fox), Cabane Rambert (ibex) then Dorbon (2 chamois) and as far as Derborence (stag bellow) and the Refuge du Lac, sunny; dinner with 10 other guests and 4th night; good but less friendly welcome, more "touristy" * Sunday 29 : towards Anzeindaz then La Vare (a little problem with the signposts, I'll come back to that); my husband is too tired and doesn't feel up to going as far as Plan Névé, so we ask Gérald if we can stay at La Vare, ok despite the closure, TB beer fondue supper and 5th night, evening in the sun (a lammergeier flew over us); very interesting conversation with him and Lydie, about their respective jobs, life on the alps but also winter, etc; very rustic but we really... Read more
We completed our famous "Tour des Muverans" at the end of last week, and we're delighted we did!
In the end, here are our stages:
* departure from Belgium on the evening of 24 September, my husband preferring to ride at night
* Wednesday 25: rest, ride to Montreux, then up to Pont de Nant, dinner and 1st night there, TB
* Thursday 26/9: vallon de Nant (rain), Col des Martinets (cloudy but dry, saw a hare), Col des Perris blancs (red deer, ibex), descent to the Cabane de La Tourche, dinner and 2nd night, with a beautiful sunset and a magnificent view of both Lake Geneva and the Mont Blanc Massif
* Friday 27 (French Community Day, Belgian public holiday): very windy, very cool but dry and quite sunny, La Rionda, Col du Demècre and Fenestral (herd of chamois), dinner and 3rd night, TB, very warm welcome, magnificent renovation; marmots seen
*Saturday 28, the longest day (Sorniot closed during the week, Dorbon full): Petit pré (fox), Cabane Rambert (ibex) then Dorbon (2 chamois) and on to Derborence (stag bellow) and the Refuge du Lac, sunny; dinner with 10 other guests and 4th night; good but less friendly welcome, more "touristy".
* Sunday 29 : towards Anzeindaz then La Vare (a little problem with the signposts, I'll come back to that); my husband is too tired and doesn't feel up to going as far as Plan Névé, so we ask Gérald if we can stay at La Vare, ok despite the closure, TB beer fondue supper and 5th night, evening in the sun (a lammergeier flew over us); very interesting conversation with him and Lydie, about their respective jobs, life on the alps but also winter, etc; very rustic but we really enjoyed it! They were preparing the desalp, tidying up the tables, and we helped load the henhouse and the hens onto the pick-up...
* Monday 30 September: we headed back down to Pont de Nant, bought some cheese and squash there, then did some shopping in Bex and returned home, where we found the Belgian rain again...
We were very lucky with the weather, saw lots of animals every day, saw some more flowers (especially milkweed and hairy gentian), met some nice people and had an adventure that we'll be doing again elsewhere or nearby, to see the mountains again in autumn.
I have one small regret, as I had dreamt of seeing Plan Névé again, but I'll be back... It was better to be safe and have a good-humoured husband.
Strange markings just before climbing to the Pas de Cheville, at the "Grenier", which confused us, as well as 2 other hikers who questioned us: a red-white cross that we haven't seen anywhere else?
There are few signposts between Derborence and Anzeindaz compared with the rest of the Tour. The route is very well maintained, and hats off to all those who work on it!
Yellow signs shortening the walking time, for example at the foot of Rambert, 3h30 to Derborence! Photo if you like...
Perhaps one more comment: we had booked with Lui in August, and a simple text message on 24/9 told us that, through no fault of his own, he couldn't see us, that it was closed. That was a bit harsh as it was the day of our departure. We looked around: Ovronnaz? bof, no desire to go down. Fenestral was just what we needed, even if we had to pay the next day to get to Derborence! 2 people told us that this happens from time to time in August. We won't be relying on it again.
Many, many thanks for the advice and hard work behind this website!
Christine... Collapse
Florence and Jean- georges
wrote on 28 August 2019
at
12h46
"An unexpected 'hold-up' at the end of our holiday, the Tour des Muverans was a real delight: whether it was the simplicity of organisation (thanks to the website designer!), the comfort of the 'cabanes', each more charming than the last, or the sumptuousness of the scenery, we were won over! Taken over 4 days, in a clockwise direction from Pont de Nans, the route is very varied. We slept successively in Derborence (lake refuge), Rambert and Demècre. But we also took the time to discover other huts, whether it was to taste a speciality, have a drink, share a moment in life, a smile... We had some wonderful encounters: Ariane and François, Angélique and Carla, with whom we met up in the evening at the refuge; the dozens of ibexes, masters of the place; the bearded vulture, the falcon, the short-toed eagle, masters of the skies; the roe deer, the marmots and the thousands of flowers! Thank you to everyone involved in this journey: hut wardens, hikers, and to you, the designer of this site, who took the time to inform me between the Martinet and the Perril when I was amazed by these cavities dug into the rock. Florence and Jean- georges
"An unexpected 'hold-up' at the end of our holiday, the Tour des Muverans was a real delight: whether it was the simplicity of organisation (thanks to the website designer!), the comfort of the 'cabanes', each more charming than the last, or the sumptuousness of the scenery, we were won over!
Taken over 4 days, in a clockwise direction from Pont de Nans, the route is very varied. We slept successively in Derborence (lake refuge), Rambert and Demècre. But we also took the time to discover other huts, whether it was to taste a speciality, have a drink, share a moment in life, a smile...
We had some wonderful encounters: Ariane and François, Angélique and Carla, with whom we met up in the evening at the refuge; the dozens of ibexes, masters of the place; the bearded vulture, the falcon, the short-toed eagle, masters of the skies; the roe deer, the marmots and the thousands of flowers!
Thank you to everyone involved in this journey: hut wardens, hikers, and to you, the designer of this site, who took the time to inform me between the Martinet and the Perril when I was surprised by these cavities dug into the rock.
Florence and Jean-Georges... Collapse
Serge
wrote on 19 August 2019
at
12h47
We did the tour of the Muverans in the 3rd week of July 2019, leaving from Pont de Nant and sleeping in the Giacomini (Anzeinde) huts, Dorbon hut, Rambert hut, Sorniot hut, Tourche hut and back to Pont de Nant. It was a superb tour. The paths are very well signposted. We met some very friendly people. The welcome in the huts was perfect. The fauna (marmots, chamois and a large number of ibex) and flora were there for the taking. The good weather was with us, which enabled us to take some great photos of the Muverans, the Grand Combins, Mont Blanc, etc. We recommend this tour. Serge
We did the tour of the Muverans in the 3rd week of July 2019, leaving from Pont de Nant and sleeping in the Giacomini (Anzeinde) huts, Dorbon hut, Rambert hut, Sorniot hut, Tourche hut and back to Pont de Nant.
It was a superb tour. The paths are very well signposted. We met some very friendly people. The welcome in the huts was perfect.
The fauna (marmots, chamois and a large number of ibex) and flora were there for the taking.
The good weather was with us, which enabled us to take some great photos of the Muverans, the Grand Combins, Mont Blanc, etc.
We recommend this tour.
Serge... Collapse
Josette
wrote on 16 August 2019
at
12h47
We had an extraordinary time on this tour, which took 5 days and 4 nights, following the very good advice we received from the person answering the questions on this site - Gilbert, who we really wish we could have met! The landscapes are as varied as you could wish for, and the people who work in the cabins are super friendly! It's very pleasant to be so well received, at any time of day, for a coffee, a "Rivella" (a very Swiss drink, worth discovering!), a slice of pie... The only downside is the rather cold and minimalist welcome in one of the cabins, Rambert. Unfortunately, it's almost unavoidable, unless you're on a very long stage. Otherwise, it's a real pleasure! And a big thank you for your website, so well done, clear and practical. Thank you for everything, Josette and 3 other Auvergnats from Cantal.
We had an extraordinary time on this tour, which took 5 days and 4 nights, following the very good advice we received from the person answering the questions on this site - Gilbert, who we really wish we could have met!
The landscapes are as varied as you could wish for, and the people who work in the cabins are super friendly! It's very pleasant to be so well received, at any time of day, for a coffee, a "Rivella" (a very Swiss drink, worth discovering!), a slice of pie...
The only downside is the rather cold and minimalist welcome in one of the cabins, Rambert. Unfortunately, it's almost unavoidable, unless you're on a very long stage.
Otherwise, it's a real pleasure! And a big thank you for your website, so well done, clear and practical.
Thank you for everything, Josette and 3 other Auvergnats from Cantal.... Collapse
TdM
wrote on 11 August 2019
at
13h47
Three-day family tour from 8 to 10 August 2019 (2 well-trained children aged 11 and 15). We set off from Pont de Tant and stayed at the Fenestral hut and Dorbon, where we were warmly welcomed. The first stage was sublime (Col des Martinets and Perris Blancs before descending to the Cabane de la Tourche), but physically demanding. Superb from start to finish, with some wonderful encounters - chamois, ibex, vultures, marmots, salamanders and happy hikers!
Three-day family tour from 8 to 10 August 2019 (2 well-trained children aged 11 and 15).
We set off from Pont de Tant and stayed at the Fenestral hut and Dorbon, where we were warmly welcomed. The first stage was sublime (Col des Martinets and Perris Blancs before descending to the Cabane de la Tourche), but physically demanding.
Superb from start to finish, with some wonderful encounters - chamois, ibex, vultures, marmots, salamanders and happy hikers! Collapse
TdM
wrote on 11 August 2019
at
12h47
I did the TdM from 17 to 21 July 2019 (5d/4n) with my 14-year-old daughter. Day 1 Pont de Nant - La Touche via the Col des Perris Blancs. Magnificent climb up the Nant valley. 2nd day La Touche - Fenestral via the Vire. A vertiginous but well-equipped trail. We were equipped to belay at the cables at critical points. Swimming in Fully lake was a pleasant experience. Great welcome at the Fenestral hut, thanks girls! Day 3 Fenestral - Rambert. Superb route along a torrent with a fine ascent in two stages. The encounter with the ibex at the foot of Muveran is always a magical moment. 4th day Rambert - Anzeindaz. A long descent to Derborence (4 hours). We were roped up for the descent of the Col de la Forcla and glacier (lots of snow). Sumptuous and wild scenery, including the ascent to the Pas de Cheville. 5th day Anzeindaz - Pont de Nant. A leisurely morning before a rewarding meal at the Pont de Nant inn. 5 days, around 22 hours' walking for 50km and 4,500 ascent in magnificent natural surroundings. Thank you for all the information you provided to help me plan this hike. I recommend the minimum equipment for children, which doesn't require a great deal of technical knowledge (harness, rope, karabiner and a 20m rope).
I did the TdM from 17 to 21 July 2019 (5d/4n) with my 14-year-old daughter. Day 1 Pont de Nant - La Touche via the Col des Perris Blancs. Magnificent climb up the Nant valley. 2nd day La Touche - Fenestral via the Vire. A vertiginous but well-equipped trail. We were equipped to belay at the cables at critical points. Swimming in Fully lake was a pleasant experience. Great welcome at the Fenestral hut, thanks girls! Day 3 Fenestral - Rambert. Superb route along a torrent with a fine ascent in two stages. The encounter with the ibex at the foot of Muveran is always a magical moment. 4th day Rambert - Anzeindaz. A long descent to Derborence (4 hours). We were roped up for the descent of the Col de la Forcla and glacier (lots of snow). Sumptuous and wild scenery, including the ascent to the Pas de Cheville. 5th day Anzeindaz - Pont de Nant. A leisurely morning before a rewarding meal at the Pont de Nant inn. 5 days, around 22 hours' walking for 50km and 4,500 ascent in magnificent natural surroundings. Thank you for all the information you provided to help me plan this hike. I recommend a minimum of equipment for children, which doesn't require a great deal of technical knowledge (harness, rope, karabiner and a 20m rope).... Collapse
TdM
wrote on 27 July 2019
at
12h47
Tour des Muverans from 22 to 25 July 2019 in the heatwave! 4 days and 3 nights. Route Pont de Nant - Derborence - Cabane Rambert - Col du Demècre - Pont de Nant. On the advice of Gilbert, whom we met at Cabane Rambert (thanks to him!), we avoided Les Vires and the Col du Martinet (vertiginous) and went via L'Au d'Arbignon, La Tourche, Croix de Javerne, Javerne, Euzanne and Cinglo. We planned our route thanks to this site, which is practical and full of information. A huge thank you to all those who helped design this well-documented tool. It was a great pleasure to explore these wonderful landscapes, with their rich flora and fauna. The last stretch from Demècre to Pont de Nant is long, but can be done in a day. We didn't encounter any particular difficulties during these 4 days. A special mention goes to the wardens of the Cabane du Demècre and their wonderful welcome... with an accordion playing at the aperitif, what else!
Tour des Muverans from 22 to 25 July 2019 in the heatwave! 4 days and 3 nights.
Route Pont de Nant - Derborence - Cabane Rambert - Col du Demècre - Pont de Nant.
On the advice of Gilbert, whom we met at Cabane Rambert (thanks to him!), we avoided Les Vires and the Col du Martinet (vertiginous) and went via L'Au d'Arbignon, La Tourche, Croix de Javerne, Javerne, Euzanne and Cinglo.
We planned our route thanks to this site, which is practical and full of information. A huge thank you to all those who helped design this well-documented tool.
It was a great pleasure to explore these wonderful landscapes, with their rich flora and fauna.
The last stretch from Demècre to Pont de Nant is long, but can be done in a day. We didn't encounter any particular difficulties during these 4 days.
A special mention for the wardens of the Cabane du Demècre and their wonderful welcome... with a tune from the accordion offered at the aperitif, what else!... Collapse
Jean-Claude
wrote on 18 October 2018
at
12h47
Hi, first of all I'd like to thank you for providing a space where you can express your opinion on the Tour des Muverans. Then, of course, I'd like to say that anyone who loves the mountains and nature, and is fit enough to walk 4 or 6 hours a day, should do this route. I did it 5 weeks ago with my family and a couple of friends, and we were amazed by the landscapes, which were new, varied and impressive every day. It's true that the smiles from Dorbon and La Tourche are more enthusiastic than others, who are sometimes more 'commercial'... But all in all, everything was perfect, and I'm really looking forward to coming there again - in 2 or 3 years, I think. Best regards, Jean-Claude
Hi, first of all I'd like to thank you for providing a space where you can express your opinion on the Tour des Muverans.
Then, of course, I'd like to say that anyone who loves the mountains and nature, and is fit enough to walk 4 or 6 hours a day, should do this route. I did it 5 weeks ago with my family and a couple of friends, and we were amazed by the landscapes, which were new, varied and impressive every day.
It's true that the smiles from Dorbon and La Tourche are more enthusiastic than others, who are sometimes more 'commercial'... But all in all, everything was perfect, and I'm really looking forward to coming there again - in 2 or 3 years, I think.
Best regards, Jean-Claude... Collapse
TdM
wrote on 1 October 2018
at
12h47
After discovering the Tour des Muverans in its entirety in the summer of 2017, I had the great pleasure of hiking it again recently, in the company of a group of hiking friends who had come all the way from the Bouches-du Rhône. The three hours of rain between Martinets and the La Tourche hut were quickly forgotten thanks to the welcome and the menu that Karine had prepared for us! And the rest of the route was nothing but sunshine, blue skies, pleasure and enchantment, for - I think - everyone! The TdM: nothing but happiness...!
After discovering the Tour des Muverans in its entirety in the summer of 2017, I had the great pleasure of hiking it again recently, in the company of a group of hiking friends who had come all the way from the Bouches-du Rhône.
The three hours of rain between Martinets and the La Tourche hut were quickly forgotten thanks to the welcome and the menu that Karine had prepared for us! And the rest of the route was nothing but sunshine, blue skies, pleasure and enchantment, for - I think - everyone!
The TdM: nothing but happiness...!... Collapse
TdM
wrote on 23 August 2018
at
12h50
From 16 to 20 August 2018, we walked the TdM accompanied by the person in charge of maintenance and waymarking, which proved to be a huge advantage. We walked the route anticlockwise and, apart from 3 hours of rain on the first day, we enjoyed some very pleasant weather. The fauna, flora, geology and, above all, the landscapes made the TdM an enchantment. Five people from Provence who will probably do the TdM again.
From 16 to 20 August 2018, we walked the TdM accompanied by the person in charge of maintenance and waymarking,
which proved to be a huge advantage.
We did the route anticlockwise and, apart from 3 hours of rain on the first day,
the weather was very pleasant.
In terms of the fauna, flora, geology and above all the scenery, the TdM was an enchantment.
Five people from Provence who will probably do the TdM again.... Collapse