Top 3 summer views in Sainte Foy Tarentaise

1. Lac Noir circuit (Montséti)

To complete the Lac Noir de Montséti circuit is to offer yourself a multitude of equally marvellous panoramas in a single hike.

Starting from the Pierre Giret parking lot, we recommend that you head towards the Ruitor refuge, then take a flat traverse to enjoy the scenery, before quickly climbing over the magnificent Sassière plateau towards the Col de Montséti. At the end of the climb, Lac Noir is just a few steps away.

Then you’re off into the neighbouring, equally sumptuous Vallon de Mercuel. After a fairly straightforward descent, you arrive at the Refuge de l’Archeboc. This is the perfect place to stop for a bite to eat or to cool down.

Then it’s time to get back on the road to the Pierre Giret parking lot, descending the Vallon de Mercuel and keeping the Arête de Monséti on your right.

Access

At Sainte-Foy chef-lieu, take the road towards Montvalezan/La Rosière. When you reach the hamlet of La Masure, turn right and drive through the hamlet on a small road. Continue as far as the Pierre Giret parking lot.

Practice

From the Ruitor refuge back to the starting point:

13.2KM
+803M D+
5h45 excluding break

Advice

For a confident hike, take the IGN TOP 25 Les Arcs-La Plagne 3532 ET map with you.

Even in summer, be vigilant and plan an early start. Make sure you always set off with a minimum of provisions and warm clothing, as the weather can deteriorate at any moment.

To preserve the sites and ecosystems you cross, always pick up your garbage.

Keep your dog on a leash.

2. Col du Mont

To reach the Col du Mont, at an altitude of 2639 m, start from the Pierre Giret parking lot above the authentic hamlet of Crôt. Follow the road to the refuge de l’Archeboc in the heart of the Vallon de Mercuel, then take the signposted path to the pass. The summit offers spectacular views over the heights of the nearby village of Valgrisenche. The refuge is open during the summer season (June 15 – September 15) to welcome hikers wishing to refresh themselves or enjoy a random slice of delicious pie.

If you’re looking for authenticity and tradition, there’s no better occasion than the annual meeting at Col du Mont held every July. This event immerses you in Franco-Italian friendship, rooted in local traditions. You’ll be able to join in a unique, timeless moment of sharing and conviviality over local specialities.

Access

At Sainte-Foy chef-lieu, take the road towards Montvalezan/La Rosière. When you reach the hamlet of La Masure, turn right and drive through the hamlet on a small road. Continue as far as the Pierre Giret parking lot.

Practice

From Pierre Giret parking lot :

6h
+915m
15.6 km return

Advice

For a confident hike, take the IGN TOP 25 Les Arcs-La Plagne 3532 ET map with you.

Even in summer, be vigilant and plan an early start. Make sure you always set off with a minimum of provisions and warm clothing, as the weather can deteriorate at any moment.

Keep your dog on a leash.

3. Le Monal and Vallon du Clou

From the Sainte-Foy-Tarentaise resort, head for the famous listed hamlet of Le Monal.

This authentic walk is easily accessible on foot or by mountain bike via a picturesque and accessible forest road. Nestled at an altitude of 1874m, this protected hamlet faces the glaciers and offers an enchanting view of its age-old architecture.

Access

From Sainte-Foy station, park in the Hêtres parking lot opposite the 1580m restaurant at the top of the station. Continue along the forest road towards the hamlet of l’Echaillon and on to Le Monal. You can then continue along the path towards the vallon du Clou.

Practice

From Sainte-Foy-Station (1580M restaurant parking lot) :

3.7KM
+356M D+
1h30

Advice

If you are accompanying young children or have mobility problems, ask the Tourist Office about access to the Echaillon parking lot on the municipal shuttle bus that runs during the summer season.

To preserve the sites and ecosystems you pass through, always pick up your garbage.

Keep your dog on a leash.