History of Geology & Biodiversity

Appreciate and understand the formation of our earth and our space in a different way, acquire a true sense of time, question our imagination, create dreams and memories - all this to raise your awareness of ecological values in a superb place bathed in light, steeped in human history, with waterfalls, peat bogs, lakes including the remarkable Lac d'Allos (Europe's largest natural high-altitude lake), not forgetting the ascent of Mont Pelat (3050m), the highest peak in the Haut Verdon, right in the heart of the Mercantour National Park.

As Montaigne said, "The world is an open book"...

This program is given as an indication. Depending on the level of participants, imponderable events such as the weather, or at the convenience of the group of participants, the guide may modify it.

Detailed program:

*Day 1 (Sunday): Arrival late afternoon - The tour leader will be on hand to welcome you.

*Day 2: Tête de la Sestrière

Departure for this first day is from La Foux d'Allos. The guide will explain the geomorphology of the famous Verdon, whose source lies in the Trois Evêchés massif, as well as the history of the astonishing "Grande Séolane" mountain - a rare occurrence in France. You can also visit the village of Allos and its church, Notre Dame de Valvert (mid-13th century AD)

Walking time: 5 h 00 / 700 m ascent

*Day 3: Lignin lakes

On this day, you'll discover torrents with beautiful "giant's kettle" basins. You'll also come across numerous sheepfolds, overburden lakes upstream from a glacial lock, peat bogs and breathtaking mountain scenery.

Walking time: 5 h 30 / 700 m ascent

*Day 4 : Col de la Cayolle - Plateau du Lausson - Lac d'Allos

This outing, in the heart of the Mercantour National Park, will take you back in time to better understand and appreciate this superb site. You'll discover the history of our mountains, the formation of the Annot sandstone and the lakes, including the magnificent Lac d'Allos (Europe's largest high-altitude lake). You'll also have a great view of the Sanguinière massif in the Haut Var.

You may also spot chamois or ibex. In the evening, you'll be treated to a lecture and discussion on flora.

Walking time: 5 h 00 / 600 m ascent

*Day 5: Waterfalls

In a place that's still wild, we'll be going off-trail for the most part, right in the heart of the Mercantour National Park. You'll have the chance to admire two magnificent waterfalls and chamois. At the end of the day, you'll visit the village of Colmars les Alpes.

Walking time: 5 h 00 / 620 m ascent

*Day 6 (Friday): Mont Pelat 3050m

On this last day, you'll be able to admire a breathtaking view of the Alps from the highest peak in the Mercantour National Park - in the Haut Verdon sector. You'll also learn about the geology of some of the mountains you'll see at the end of your ascent. And, as "after effort, comfort", you'll stop at the Sainte Brigitte farm, which makes cow's milk cheese.

Walking time: 6 h 00 / 940 m ascent

Tour details : http://www.randonneesmontagne.fr/index.php?page=sejour

Level : moderate - suitable for people who exercise regularly

Capacity 8 people maximum

This service provider and his mountain guide, Christiane Ray Anezin, are members of the Mercantour Écotourisme association. Find out more about them here and here!