An aesthetic, aerial ascent to the highest peak in the Bauges.
The highest point in the Bauges at 2,217m, l'Arcalod is reached via a northern ridge that is as elegant as it is accessible. It is a technically easy but aerial ridge that retains all its character as a mountaineering route.
The approach is long, whatever the starting point: either from Faverges via the Pont de Saint-Ruth, or from the heart of the Bauges via Précherel or the Nant Fourchu car park in the Bellevaux valley. The most attractive loop starts from the hamlet of Précherel. You climb up to the Col de Chérel, then to the Col du Curtillet, the starting point for the northern ridge.
The route then follows an elegant line: alternating rocky ledges, small easy climbing steps, crossing a goat's rake and the famous final "letterbox" marking the arrival at the summit. A few steeper sections require a rope, particularly for belaying and reassuring beginners. It's a succession of well-spaced obstacles that keep it fun and never monotonous.
The descent is on the east side, along a steep path, before continuing towards Mont de la Coche. The route climbs between lapiaz and alpine meadows, then crosses a final isolated rocky cirque before dropping down through the Plan Mollard passage, the Plan de la Limace and the Croix d'Allant. A long forest track finally leads back to Précherel.
A day's ride, this is a race that demands a good pace. The loop from Précherel can be envisaged as an alpi-trail outing, with a total time of between 7 and 10 hours, depending on your pace. The effort is considerable, but the reward is worth it: reaching the emblematic summit of the Bauges by its most beautiful route.
Yes, the Arcalod north ridge is an ideal introduction to mountaineering in the Bauges. It is technically easy, but the length of the approach and return requires you to be in very good physical condition.
The classic rock climbing equipment: harness, helmet, lanyard, rope, which I supply. When it comes to footwear, opt for approach shoes or low hiking boots, which are more suitable than trainers thanks to their rigid, grippy soles.
There are several options: Faverges via the Pont de Saint-Ruth, Nant Fourchu in the Bellevaux valley, or Précherel, which offers the most attractive loop via the Col de Chérel and the Col du Curtillet.
You should allow between 7 and 10 hours for the complete loop from Précherel. A truly long day in the mountains, where you need to be able to walk fast.
Great ridge routes in the massif include the Arête Nord du Trélod, the Traversée des Pointes d'Arlicots and the Arête Sud du Roc des Bœufs.
I limit the group to a maximum of two people, to ensure that this long crossing goes smoothly and safely.
Live with your guide, from first contact to the summit.
Creative and flexible
A flexible framework for devising the most appropriate itinerary or activity for each day, depending on the group and the conditions.
