From Villar d'Arène to Col du Lautaret

Hike part of the GR50 to the Col du Lautaret. Enjoy a superb view of the Ecrins peaks.

From the Villar d'Arène village square, turn right past the village supermarket, then take the small street against the Gîte "Les Mélèzes". Continue straight on to the end. 1) The road turns into a path which, in winter, is the start of the Domaine nordique. Pass in front of the Oratoire. On the road, turn left to join the départementale. 2) Once on the road leading to Arsine, turn left to pick up the path 200m further on, allowing you to cross "à travers champ" on the footpath running alongside the road. 3) When you reach another road, turn left towards the hamlet of Pied du Col. 4) Before entering the hamlet, take the first track on your left. 5) At the intersection, go straight on towards Col du Lautaret. 6) After skirting the road to Le Lautaret, cross it to join a path a few metres ahead. 7) Follow the path to the top of the Col du Lautaret. 8) To return, follow the GR50 towards Villar d'Arène. 9) Carefully cross back over the road to Le Lautaret and take the path opposite to reach the foot of the Col. 10) Once you've passed the hamlet, rejoin the road and take the path "à travers champs" to the right. 11) Take the Arsine road, then turn right at the first crossroads back into the village lanes.