The 12 Most Amazing Peaks around Allos

The Allos region, nestled within France's Mercantour National Park, offers several stunning peaks. Among them are Mont Pelat, known as one of the most accessible 3,000-meter peaks in the Southern Alps, and Le Cimet, another peak exceeding 3,000 meters. You can also explore Sommets des Garrets, celebrated for its beautiful hike, and Tête de la Sestrière, which provides a superb 360-degree panorama. For a unique experience, consider the Bonette Summit, featuring the highest paved road in Europe.

Many peaks around Allos provide breathtaking vistas. Mont Pelat offers a spectacular 360-degree panorama that can stretch from Montagne Sainte-Victoire to Mont Blanc on clear days, and even to Corsica. Tête de la Sestrière, at 2,575 meters, also boasts a superb 360-degree panorama of surrounding valleys and peaks. The Summit of Lausson provides beautiful views of the valley and mountains, including Lac d'Allos.

Yes, Mont Pelat (3,051 m) is renowned as one of the most accessible 3,000-meter peaks in the Southern Alps, requiring no technical climbing. Its summit offers a spectacular 360-degree panorama. Le Cimet (3,020 m) is another peak exceeding 3,000 meters, often included in multi-day challenging hikes alongside Mont Pelat.

The Mercantour National Park, where these peaks are located, is rich in alpine wildlife. On trails leading to peaks like Mont Pelat, you might encounter marmots, chamois, and eagles. Ibex are also frequently found, particularly around the Summit of Lausson.

Absolutely. The trek to Mont Pelat is a demanding but highly fulfilling experience, typically taking around 6 hours with a significant altitude difference. The Sommets des Garrets trek also provides a challenging and spectacular experience. For an even greater challenge, a two-day circular route starting from Allos allows hikers to ascend both Mont Pelat and Le Cimet.

Beyond the peaks themselves, the region is home to stunning natural features. Mont Pelat overlooks the magnificent glacial Lac d'Allos, Europe's largest natural high-altitude lake. The trail to Sommets des Garrets traverses striking limestone rocks and lush larch forests. From Col de l'Encombrette, you can admire Lac d'Allos on one side and the smaller Encombrette lakes on the other. The Summit of Lausson also offers views of transparent and green high-altitude lakes.

The summer months are ideal for hiking, offering pleasant weather and full access to trails. However, the Val d'Allos region provides year-round activities. In winter, peaks like Mont Pelat transform into a paradise for ski touring, offering thrilling ascents and descents through snowy landscapes.

Yes, while not a peak, Col de l'Encombrette (2,524 m) is a significant point of interest offering exceptional panoramic views. From the pass, you can admire Lac d'Allos on one side and the smaller Encombrette lakes on the other. The approach from Clignon Haut includes a "vertiginous Pas de l'Echelle pass," adding an adventurous element.

Visitors appreciate the combination of accessibility and an authentic French Alpine atmosphere. The pristine mountain lakes, such as Lac d'Allos, reflecting the dramatic peaks, create particularly magical scenery. Many enjoy the rewarding challenges of the hikes and the superb 360-degree panoramas from summits like Tête de la Sestrière, often spotting marmots and other wildlife along the way.

Besides hiking, the region offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, including challenging ascents like the Bonette Summit. For more cycling options, explore the Road Cycling Routes around Allos or Cycling around Allos guides. There are also many other hiking trails, such as the popular "Mont Pelat by the lakes" route, detailed in the Hiking around Allos guide.

Yes, the trail to Sommets des Garrets is noted for traversing striking limestone rocks, adding a distinct geological element to the hiking experience. Additionally, Gendarme's Hat is a distinctive mountain top with some steep sections of climbing, offering magnificent viewpoints over the Ubaye valley.