Autumn colors - Brec d'Utelle

With the weather forecast for Saturday looking very good with sunshine and a bit of clouds, I suggest a hike to the Brec d'Utelle to enjoy the autumn colors and maybe also pick some chataigne on the way.

The Brec d'Utelle is a tall, rocky summit located on the watershed dividing the Tinée and Vésubie valleys. On clear days, it provides an unforgettable panoramic view of the Mercantour mountains, the French Riviera, and the surrounding valleys (Var, Tinée, Vésubie).

This site was a significant location during the Napoleonic era, serving as a stronghold for Austrian-Sardinian troops from 1792 to 1794. A young officer from Nice, General Masséna, attempted to dislodge them. To achieve this, he ordered a cannon to be transported up to the Castel Ginesté pass in 1793, despite the steep and difficult terrain. Let us hear directly from him: “I had a 4-pounder artillery piece brought up from Utelle; we carried it by hand for two miles, with the general, officers, and soldiers all helping. After seven hours of effort that seemed miraculous and could only be inspired by the genius of liberty, it was finally in position at the advanced post of Castel Ginesté, firing upon the Sardinian slaves. Imagine their surprise and terror!”

Pace: medium, social hiking
Start-time: 10h00
Elevation gain: 800m
Duration: about 4h30 plus time for lunch
Meeting point: Utelle -> click <-

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. Maybe a swim suit if you want to swim in the lake (cold!!)

If you need a car share or you can offer one, 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