Lac de Vens - Circuit de Tortisse

With the weather forecast for Saturday looking very good, I suggest to go up to Col de Fer, offering stunning views over the Mercantour and the Lac de Vens. It is one of the most beautiful hikes in the national parc with plenty of variations in the landscape starting in the Tinée valley and going above the tree line.

This hike through the Mercantour National Park's core zone begins at the pastoral hamlet of Pra, offering a safe experience despite the considerable elevation. This is made possible by an exceptional network of footpaths originally designed by France's Office of National Forests and Water (Eaux et Forêts) during the 1930s.

Originally constructed to service mountain pastures and restore eroded terrain caused by centuries of overgrazing and deforestation, these trails now provide access to remarkable natural features. On the hike you can enjoy spectacular views of the Vens lakes from Tortisse Pass, while the Italian Val Stura valley unfolds below, framed by the towering Mont Viso (3,841m).

The journey showcases rich biodiversity, including trout fishing opportunities, diverse alpine flora, and permanent snowfields at high altitudes. This scenic trek offers a comprehensive experience of the park's pristine wilderness, all while traversing the heart of the protected area.

Starting point is Le Pra, 15km from St Etienne-de-Tinée.

This is a medium sportive hike, with 950m elevation gain.

Pace: moderately sportive hiking
Start-time: 10h30
Duration: about 6h00 plus time for lunch
Elevation: 950m up/down
Meeting point: Le Pra, right at the beginning of the trail
-> https://maps.app.goo.gl/8BQK33HzyU4G7NLUA
Hike: https://randoxygene.departement06.fr/haute-tinee-1/circuit-de-tortisse-9100.html

The usual: proper shoes, water, a rain coat, wind breaker, warm pullover and something to eat for your lunch. Plus sun glasses and sun screen and maybe a head cover.

If you need a car share, please ask in the comments.

My phone number in case you are late or can't find us: 06.70.69.98.49 SMS or WhatsApp.