Lac Laramon and Lac du Serpent are superb lakes with wonderful views of the Massif des Ecrins. A short, easy hike to reach a beautiful spot for fishing, picnicking and enjoying the panoramic views of the Cerces and beyond, to l'Oisans.
Climb up above the refuge by following the path to the lakes. At the junction where the paths meet (by the signpost) head towards the lakes. You first come to the weir of Lac Laramon at an altitude of 2,385 m (1 hr). Take the left-hand path around the lake and climb to reach Lac du Serpent at 2,448 m (30 minutes).
Les Gardioles, Col du Grand Cros, Pic du Lac Blanc: After you reach Lac du Serpent, continue to climb. The landscape becomes more rocky, but the track is easy to see taking you to Col du Grand Cros at 2,848 m (1 hr). You then pass alongside Lac Les Gardioles and bear slightly towards the east. After following a winding track through rocky terrain, a little higher up, you reach the Lac Blanc pass at 2,935 m (30 minutes). Pic du Lac Blanc: The top of this ridge provides a 360° view of the Ecrins, Thabor, Aiguilles d'Arves, Grand Roche Brune and more. From the pass, follow the ridge heading north-west for half an hour (you’ll encounter a few tricky sections here).
From the Lac Blanc pass, head down to Névache via the little valley of Vallon without joining the road. Vallon is longer to get to and more remote than the Ricou area. Take the east ridge down overlooking Lac Blanc. From the Lac Blanc sign, head due south through the mountain pastures to reach the Col du Vallon path.
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