The park
Created in 1963, Vanoise National Park is the first in France. Its core zone protects more than 500 km² of high mountains, including the Grande Casse (3,855 m), glaciers, and the largest population of ibex in the French Alps. Marmots can be spotted on almost every high-altitude path.
Access points from the apartment
- Termignon – Bellecombe – Plan du Lac: road then summer shuttle to the Bellecombe car park; an easy walk to the Plan du Lac (refuge, view of the Grande Casse). The simplest access for a family.
- Aussois – Plan d’Amont: start for the Fond d’Aussois refuge and the Col d’Aussois.
- Bonneval-sur-Arc – Écot valley: wild high mountains, Évettes refuge.
- Bessans – Avérole valley: Avérole refuge, waterfalls.
Core zone rules
Dogs are not allowed even on a lead, no picking, no bivouacking except near the refuges (rules on the park’s website). Refuges are booked online. The summer shuttles to Bellecombe are paid.
Practical information
- By road: 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on the entrance chosen.
- The hiking season runs from mid-June to the end of September; snow is possible above 2,500 m in June.
- Park information centres (Maisons du parc) at Termignon and Aussois for maps and advice.