Circuit from Cros d'Utelle

With good hiking weather and no road closures predicted for next Sunday (as far as I can tell !), let's meet up in Le Cros d'Utelle for this lovely 11 km loop hike.

We'll start by following the GR5, which climbs steadily at first then levels out in a spectacular section "en balcon" above the gorges de la Vésubie. After stopping to admire the view of the Mercantour from the Chapelle Saint-Antoine, we'll leave the GR5 and climb up through the woods to the Col d'Ambellarte, then to the highest point of the hike, on the Collet d'Huesti. From there, it's all downhill back to the starting point.

The pace will be fairly relaxed with plenty of breaks. However, with 800 m of climb, this hike is towards the top end of "moderate" and the part above the Vésubie, while perfectly safe, may not suit vertigo sufferers.

Some of the paths are steep and stony, so good shoes are essential and batons would also be useful. For other equipment, advice and general information, please see the group's front page. Don't forget to bring a picnic and plenty of water !

As usual, car sharing requests and offers can be made in the comments section.