Refuge de Platé looped through the Dérochoir

Alpine hike to venture behind the Fiz and reach the largest lapiaz in Europe: the Platé Desert, a listed natural site.

Description

From Plaine-Joux, follow the motorable track which crosses the ski resort and will lead you to Ayères des Pierrières. A path on your left winds through scree and large boulders to reach the cable passage and the ladders going up to Dérochoir. You then enter the Passy nature reserve and enjoy a magnificent view over the valley of Sales.

From the Passage du Dérochoir, turn left towards the Col de la Portette and then descend to the Platé refuge. You will then go south to descend the chimney of Platé by a narrow and steep path. At the bottom of the descent, turn left to join Plaine-Joux.