Join us for two days of hiking in the heart of the Vanoise National Park, disvover high-altitude lakes, a night in a mountain refuge, rub shoulders with locals and other hikers.

Day 1 – To the Refuge du Saut

Your adventure begins at the entrance to the Plan de Tuéda Nature Reserve. Located at an altitude of 1,730 metres, this reserve is home to many local treasures. Among them is the communal mountain pasture of the Tuéda farm. No Savoyard hike would be complete without stopping for some summer Beaufort cheese. Imagine yourself already savouring the cheese while admiring the panoramic views promised by this hike.

Can you picture it? Then let’s continue.

Follow the path that gradually climbs towards the Vanoise National Park. Take the time to enjoy the local flora: gentians, edelweiss and rhododendrons colour the slopes. If you’re not the type to stop and appreciate the flowers, take advantage of the silence of the valley to listen to the whistles of the marmots. These curious mammals are often visible at the edge of the paths and their songs will punctuate your ascent.

Randonnée lac des fées à Méribel

On the way up, stop for a rest at the Lac des Fées. After about 6 kilometres with a 450-metre climb, the Refuge du Saut comes into view in the distance. At an altitude of 2,100 metres, the Refuge du Saut is nestled on a green plateau beneath the ridges. With half-board, share a hearty dinner with other hikers in the valley.

 

💡Our tip: don’t forget to save room for the blueberry tart. Rumour has it that it is impossible to resist.

Day 2 – Routes suitable for all levels

Col de Chanrouge

Lac du Chanrouge, randonnée à Méribel

The first option, best suited to families with young hikers, will take you to the Col de Chanrouge. After about 3.5 kilometres and a 400-metre climb, you will come upon Lake Chanrouge, a jewel nestled between the mountains, perfect for a break. The round trip can easily be done in the morning.

Tour of the Aiguille du Borgne

Lac du Borgne, randonnée à Méribel

The second option will appeal to more experienced hikers, who can hike around the Aiguille du Borgne. This is a challenging 16-kilometre loop with an elevation gain of 1,200 metres. It offers exceptional landscapesincluding a unique view of the Aiguille du Fruit and an immersive experience at the foot of the Gébroulaz glacier, an impressive testament to the high mountains.

⚠️ Be careful : Wild and unmarked, the hike around the Aiguille du Borgne includes technical sections, it requires good physical condition and perfect knowledge of the terrain. To fully enjoy this adventure in complete safety, it is advisable to go in the company of a professional, who will ensure you progress safely off the beaten track.

 

Whether you are a young hiker or an experienced trekker, you will have earned your return to the Saut refuge for a final meal or snack.

The descent to Tuéda is gentle, passing through the Bois de la Ramée to enjoy the forest environment, which stays cool on very sunny days. Once at the bottom, treat yourself to a final break at the shaded refreshment bar by the lake before returning peacefully to Méribel-Mottaret.

The Méribel Tourisme team's practical guide

📍Departure : Plan de Tuéda Natural Reserve, accessible from Méribel-Mottaret (freeparking & bus).

  • Access to the Saut refuge: 2 hours’ walk – 6 km – 450 m elevation gain.
  • Overnight stay: Refuge du Saut – Half board on reservation. Limited capacity. Information and reservations available online.

🧭 Looking for inspiration for your hikes in Méribel? A detailed guide, available from the Tourist Office, will help you choose the route that’s right for you. Illustrated with maps and descriptions, it lists itineraries for all levels, from peaceful strolls to more challenging hikes.

⚠️ Respect nature :

  • Take all your litter home with you and take a bag with you to collect it.
  • Observe the animals without feeding them, to help maintain their natural equilibium.
  • Enjoy the alpine flowers without picking them, they are essential to the mountain ecosystem.

By adopting these simple gestures, you are helping to preserve our mountains.