The Buffe valley via Les Orliers

This beautiful itinerary takes you through the vallon de la Buffe, dominated by the majestic Pic du Mas de la Grave. Its mountain pastures are much sought-after by transhumants who bring their herds up from the south of France.

From the starting point at Le Chazelet (1770m), head down towards the village along the parking lot. At the first junction, do not go up into the village, but take a right-hand hairpin turn towards the foot of the ski lifts. At the second junction, keep to the side of the road (do not descend towards the torrent).

Continue along the wide track and at the next junction, turn right towards the three hamlets of Les Rivets. Cross them and reach the Tuf cross (1901m). At the cross, turn right towards the Orliers alpine chalet.

Follow the good track, cross the torrent de la Chabanerie and pass the chalet of the same name. Continue up the slope to the ruins on the banks of the Courbeille torrent.

Descend to the wide track, follow it to the left for 200m, then ford the torrent du Gâ (pâsserelle). Take a steep path up the other side to reach the good Combettes trail.

Turn left and follow it all the way to Quérellé. Don't turn right onto the path leading to Clot Raffin, but continue along the track down to the "pont de la mine". Cross the torrent and head up towards Le Chazelet to reach the starting point of the itinerary.