Tour of the Queyras

The Tour of the Queyras follows the GR58 and half of the GR541 trails. The 12-day Tour described in this guidebook crosses 24 cols, all above 2000m, with options to climb 17 summits of varying difficulty. This route is ideal for those new to Alpine trekking, but also provides optional challenges for the more experienced hiker and hillwalker.

A guide to the Tour of the Queyras which makes use of two GR trails (GR58 and GR541) and their variants and a number of non-GR footpaths trails. The route includes the highest point reached on any grand randonee with 24 cols above 2000m and options to climb up to 17 summits, five above 3000m.The Queyras is a dramatic, unspoilt region in the shadow of Monte Viso, sheltered to the west by the Ecrins, and is one of the sunniest areas of the Alps. The absence of glaciers makes ideal hillwalking country, with several high mountain summits accessible to the ordinary walker, hiker and scrambler. This route is ideal as a first-time alpine walking tour or for the experienced mountain walker.The tour is described in 12 day stages, each stage terminates at a place where there is overnight accommodation. In general, the stages are not especially long, although there is some variation in the length and severity of each section. The guidebook includes altitude profiles, full details of facilities en route and several alternative routes and excursions.

Preface to the Second EditionIntroductionThe French AlpsThe QueyrasWalking in the French AlpsGrandes RandonnéesThe Walking Tour of the Queyras, GR58 and GR541Climate - When to GoTravelling to the QueyrasAccommodationFoodWaterEquipmentMapsWaymarking and NavigationLe Parc Naturel Régional du QueyrasWildlifeTrainingHealthMountain SafetyEmergenciesLanguageMoney/Banks/TelephoneInsurancePublic Holidays and Time in FranceSuggestions for Walking HolidaysNotes on Using this GuidebookDistances, Altitudes and TimingsStage 1 The Durance Valley to FurfandeStage 2 Furfande to CeillacStage 3 Ceillac to Saint-VéranStage 4 Saint-Véran to Refuge AgnelExcursion from Refuge Agnel: Le Pain de Sucre, Lac Foréant and Lac EgourgéouStage 5 Refuge Agnel to Refuge Viso via the Soustra Valley (Italy)Stage 6 Refuge Viso to La Monta via the Pellice Valley (Italy)Alternative to Stage 5 and Stage 6: Refuge Agnel to La Monta via Pic de Foréant and Lac EgourgéouStage 7 La Monta to Abriès (high-level route)Alternative Stage 7: La Monta to Abriès via Ristolas (low-level route)Stage 8 Abriès to Les Fonts de Cervières via Lac du Grand Laus (GR58)Alternative Stage 8: Abriès to Les Fonts de Cervières via Col des ThuresStage 9 Les Fonts de Cervières to SouliersStage 10 Souliers to Brunissard via the Lac de SouliersStage 11 Brunissard to FurfandeStage 12 Furfande to the Durance ValleyAppendix 1 Gtes d'étape and Refuges in the RegionAppendix 2 BibliographyAppendix 3 Useful Addresses, Telephone Numbers and Websites