All inclusive 7 day trek into the high mountains of the Ecrin National Park. This trip will take you off the beaten track to some spectacular alpine scenes and give you a true wilderness experience. You will also discover the secret village
of Dormillouse - a tiny alpine hamlet inhabited by a handful of families all year round, BUT only accessible by foot and a good hour and a half away from the nearest road.
During the trek you will spend some nights camping and some nights in a mountain refuge. A unique adventure for walkers who want something a little bit different.
Your guide and donkey handler, Eric will take you up into the high mountains of the Ecrin National Park with donkeys to carry the bulk of your kit.
Eric knows this area like his back garden and you won't necessarily be following the regular paths. He will take you off the tourist footpaths to ensure you really experience the alpine wilderness at its best. You'll spend three nights camping and four nights in a traditional mountain refuge or gite.
In the spring and summer, the Southern Alps sunshine brings out butterflies in their thousands and you can walk amongst them in meadows blooming with wild alpine flowers. In autumn the deciduous woods glow with a full range of Autumn colours which contrasted with the deep blue sky are a photographer's dream.
In the high mountains you can see marmots, ibex, chamois and lots of birds including golden eagles, and in the woods you can pick wild strawberries and raspberries, mushrooms, blackberries... depending on when you come!
Each leg of the trek is about 5 - 7 hours of walking but with plenty of stops, photo sessions, minor off route excursions and time for the donkeys (and you!) to graze.
All camping equipment is provided except for sleeping bags and camping mats as people tend to prefer their own (if you don't have either of these we can easily find you some so just let us know).
When you reach the camps Eric will help you set up your tents and prepare your dinner al fresco. On the nights you are in the refuge or gite you will be able to shower. They offer traditional dormitory sleeping arrangements.
For the duration of the trip all food is included - breakfast, lunch and dinner, but you are welcome to bring favourite snacks and chocolate!
If you are interested in finding out more about this trip or would like to book, please contact us..