Monêtier-les-Bains to le Bachas along forest trails

A leisurely forest walk was tempting on our last day. It was hot too, and we expected the woods to give us some protection. That worked but the hike turned out to be more strenuous than planned.

From Monêtier-les-Bains (1500 m) to le Bachas (2174 m), the main trail is the GR54 but there’s a parallel steeper trail along the forested ridge (Second image below) which we took.

Bridge over la Guisane River

Shortcutting to GR54 from Monetier

Near Charvet parking and trailhead

Charvet Chapel by the trail

We crossed the Guisane River, followed the GR54 signs to parking de Charvet with trail info. We first ascended along the GR54 then at a crossroads at about 1770 m forked left. There were some confusing and ingrown trails in the forest, and we may have missed the one shown on the map. Passing Clot du Refour, we headed south and ascended steeply. We eventually reached the Sentier de Découverte on Crête des Lauzières.

The latter part was less steep and equipped with information about the local flora and fauna. The last stretch to le Bachas was easy. We had a nice lunch at Le Flocon before heading back. On the way back, we used the GR54 all the way, following the Selle Torrent.

Monetier-les-Bains seen from trail

Easy stretch of GR54

Steep optional trail to le Bachas

Down from Bachas along GR54

We recommend to use the GR54 both ways. The ascended trail did not add much but was strenuous. Those who wish to view the Sentier de Découverte on the ridge can do it from le Bachas, out and back.

Climb: 850 m

Distance: 11,5 km (From the Village of Monêtier-les-Bains)

Duration: 5 h

Map: 3436 ET Meije Pelvoux