Lake of Plan d'Amont and Refuge of Fond d'Aussois

This family hike, in the heart of the Vanoise National Park, is an ideal start to your stay. It goes along the lake of Plan d'Amont lined with rhododendrons, and leads you to the plateau of Fond d'Aussois, where the refuge welcomes you.

Description

Did you know that the water level you are walking along and its twin below have a curious function?

These hydroelectric dams are used to power an aerospace wind tunnel where model planes and rockets are tested.

But you don't need such devices to admire these turquoise waters where the Dent Parrachée is reflected.

Let's go on the path lined with rhododendrons and sweet-smelling cembros pines! Many animals live in this small paradise: marmots, squirrels, bearded vultures, ibexes... you will surely cross one of them.

You will arrive on a plain where a peaceful stream meanders. Follow it to the pretty Notre-Dame-des-Anges chapel where a few fluttering jackdaws seem to stand guard.

You will finally arrive at the refuge, overlooking the old "chalet de la Marie". Tym's warm welcome and the organic and local restaurant will certainly incite you to make a stop.

The most courageous are invited to continue on a slightly steeper slope towards the Aussois pass. But your efforts will be largely rewarded by the breathtaking view on the Vanoise and all the surrounding mountains.

Environments

• Lake view
• In the mountains
• Presence of herds and guard dogs

Rates

Free access.

Itinerary

• Distance 8.5km
• Type of route LOOP
• Elevation gain 420m
• Negative elevation gain 420m
• Daily duration 02h45
• Marked itinerary Oui
• Accuracy of markup yellow signs PNV
• Nature of the land Earth, Not suitable for strollers
• Maximum altitude 2350m

Opening period

From 01/06 to 31/10.

Subject to favorable snow and weather conditions.

Additional opening

• Subject to favorable weather conditions

• Subject to snow conditions

Spoken languages

• French

Location

Departure from the parking of the dams at 7km from Aussois.

Animals

Animals accepted : No

Topo/step by step

• Start: Free parking lot at the dams, 7 km from Aussois. Road closed to coaches.
  1/ Follow the dirt road over the dam to Pont de la Séteria.
  2/ Leave the GR5 (refuge de la Fournache) and turn left towards Fond d'Aussois and the refuge du Fond d'Aussois.
  3/ Chapelle Notre-Dame des Anges built in 1886 by Louis Couvert.
  4/ Chalet de la Marie, former refuge until 2003
  5/ New Fond d'Aussois refuge (CAF), built in 2004. For the more athletic, the trail continues to the Col d'Aussois and the Pointe de l'Observatoire at 3015m.
  6/ Return via Fournache. Access trail to the Grand Jeu chairlift, open all summer except Saturdays, via the Plan Sec refuge.