Valberg: Tête de Charnaye loop

In search of a short hike near Valberg, we came across this nice and relaxing loop starting from Col de l’Espaul (1749 m). We knew the col from many previous hikes.

Leaving Col de l'Espaul

La Roya Haute Valberg

Starting from the col (signpost #7), we ascended above the parking and headed west in open terrain, climbing gently. We had great views towards Valberg. We passed a few abandoned houses at la Roya Haute. The path descended a bit before signpost #6 above Col des Huerris where the Valberg Golf court was located.. We forked right (northwest) and walked through a short forested stretch then forked sharply right. We now ascended along Crete de la Maure with a 360° panorama. We reached an unnamed grassy summit (1913 m), then headed northeast. After a short descent, we climbed to Tête de Charnaye (1972 m) with a telecom mast on the summit.

Above Col des Huerris

Péone and Tête de Méric

Crête de la Maure southern flank

Crête de l'Houesti

The trail was well marked all the way. Still heading northeast, we descended steeply along Crête de l’Houesti, first along an alpine meadow then in a picturesque larch forest to signpost #8. We then hiked back to our starting point along a dirt track.

Distance: 5,7 km

Climb: 270 m

Duration: 2h 30

Map: 3640 OT Haut Cians Valberg