Via Alpina Itinéraire Bleu - Étape 35: Refuge du Petit Mont Cenis - Rifugio Vaccarone

The place

From Mont-Cenis to Vaccarone: Between Protected Nature and Technical Challenges Leaving the Refuge du Petit Mont-Cenis, the route sets off, quickly crossing the pass of the same name before heading towards the Savine vale. This place, a former traditional passage, is now recognised as a protected area under the Natura 2000 label, testifying to its ecological importance. The route follows Lake Savine, offering breathtaking views, before conquering the Col Clapier. The descent then continues on the Italian side to the Rifugio Vaccarone, through scenic but technically more demanding trails, offering a rewarding challenge to hikers. This stage also offers a variant partially accessible to mountain bikers up to the Col Clapier, combining nature and sport. A More Accessible Variant For those seeking a less demanding experience, the trail linking the Clapier lakes to the ridge towards Vaccarone has facilities that make progress easier. This option allows you to enjoy the beauty of the route while benefiting from a trail equipped for an easier hike.