The best mountain hikes around Moulinet
4.8
(4)
19
hikers
2
hikes
Mountaineering routes around Moulinet are situated in a rugged alpine environment, characterized by high mountain passes, glacial lakes, and prominent peaks. The terrain features significant elevation changes, with routes often traversing rocky paths and exposed ridges. This region offers a challenging landscape for experienced mountaineers, with opportunities to explore remote valleys and ascend to panoramic viewpoints.
Best mountaineering routes around Moulinet
- The most popular mountaineering route is Lac de la Fous – Lacs du Mont Clapier loop from Parking du…
Last updated: October 12, 2026
4.0
(1)
9
hikers
16.5km
07:58
1,300m
1,300m
Hard mountaineering route. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
5.0
(1)
3
hikers
13.6km
07:03
1,160m
1,160m
Hard mountaineering route. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(1)
3
hikers
11.0km
03:28
410m
410m
Moderate mountaineering route. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
10.5km
03:28
480m
480m
Moderate mountaineering route. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Pas de l'Arpette (2511 m) is the gateway to the Merveilles Valley, from Vésubie. Effort and beautiful emotions guaranteed. From the Gordolasque car park, cross the Countet bridge (1692 m) and turn right at milestone 412, in the direction of Pas de l'Arpette (2511 m), which you reach after crossing the Empuonrame valley. Then we can move to the Merveilles Valley, which can be visited in the company of a guide approved by the Mercantour National Park to observe the more than 40,000 rock carvings, the oldest dating back to the Copper Age and the beginning of the Bronze Age. . Age. The return is made by the same route.
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The refuge is located on the banks of the upper Long lake, in the heart of the rock engravings of the Vallée des Merveilles, surrounded by numerous lakes and peaks: Bégo, Grand Capelet, Cime du Diable... The refuge is located in an open-air museum. This exceptional archaeological site, classified as a historical monument, extends between two valleys around Mont Bégo. There are 40,000 rock engravings dating from -4000 to -2000 BC, which are marks of pastoral occupation. When you cross the Vallée des Merveilles on the GR, you feel an almost mystical and very unusual side.
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The Nice refuge is located at 2,232 meters above sea level, in the town of Bélvédère, Alpes-Maritimes, in the Mercantour National Park.
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This car park is located at the entrance to the Vallée des Merveilles in Mercantour. To get there, simply follow the signs indicating the hike. It is one of the most beautiful sites in the region!
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First time visitors should be warned this is a refuge, not a hotel. As such don’t go expecting anything more than basic facilities. If you want a shower then it will be with cold water taken and filtered directly from the nearby lake. Without exception, we found the staff to be very friendly, as were all the hikers we spoke to. No matter if you arrive alone or with a group, everyone is staying at the refuge for the same reason as you, and this makes starting a conversation with someone you don’t know very easy. The advantages you get from staying in such a refuge is knowing you’ll be given somewhere dry and warm to sleep, plus something hot to eat. When it came close to having dinner everyone helped move all the rectangle tables into one long one, where we all then sat and enjoyed an amazing hot stew with bread. After dinner it was a quick cold shower. After which we relaxed outside for a while before kipping down for the night. Breakfast here was available, as was a packed lunch to take on our onward journey. All of course at extra cost. Like all refuges around the world, there is a limit to the amount of hikers each can accommodate at any one time. Because of this you’ll need to book a place well in advance of your trip. Arriving on the day looking for a place is unlikely to be successful unless a booking goes unfilled, which wouldn’t be noticeable until well after sunset. You can camp outside near the refuge but you’ll need to get permission first.
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Nestled on a rocky promontory overlooking Lac de la Fous, Nice's bucolic refuge is immersed in a spectacular setting. If you pay attention you can observe ibexes and chamois in the surroundings of the chalet. More information on the refuge here: www.refugedenice.ffcam.fr.
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The Pas de l'Arpette (2511m), is an entry point to the Vallée de la Merveille. It's no secret that the path that brings you here climbs a lot (about 800m from La Gordolasque), but the scenery is well worth the effort! The impressive surrounding mountains are embellished by wildlife with a staggering number of chamois and ibexes.
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The team at the hut was well organized in view of the large crowd and managed well when it came to food and drink. Our mountain guide had an upset stomach afterwards, but that could also be for another reason, as everyone else was fine. But what really bothered me is the fact that the top floor of the accommodation was massively infested with mold and you sleep in bunk beds directly below. No question, you are happy about the accommodation and you could also camp outside if necessary, but then the weight to be carried would have been completely different for a week-long hut trekking. We also noticed hygienic deficits in other accommodations in the area. It may be that it is not always easy to get the moisture under control...
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the general difficulty level of mountaineering routes around Moulinet?
The mountaineering routes around Moulinet are generally challenging. The region features a rugged alpine environment with significant elevation changes, rocky paths, and exposed ridges. While there are a couple of moderate routes, such as the Camp d'Argent loop from Col de Turini and the Suorcas Peak loop from Col de Turini, most are rated as difficult, suitable for experienced mountaineers.
Are there any circular mountaineering routes in Moulinet?
Yes, several mountaineering routes in Moulinet are circular. For example, you can explore the Lac de la Fous – Lacs du Mont Clapier loop from Parking du Countet, which offers expansive mountain views. Another option is the Lac Mouton – Pas de l'Arpette loop from Parking du Countet, navigating challenging mountain terrain.
What kind of terrain can I expect on mountaineering trails in Moulinet?
Mountaineering trails in Moulinet traverse a rugged alpine environment. You can expect high mountain passes, glacial lakes, and prominent peaks. The terrain often includes rocky paths and exposed ridges, with significant elevation changes, offering a challenging experience for mountaineers.
Are there any specific permits required for mountaineering in the Moulinet area?
The provided data does not indicate specific permits required for general mountaineering routes in Moulinet. However, it is always advisable to check local regulations, especially if you plan to enter protected areas or nature reserves, as rules can change.
Where can I park when accessing mountaineering routes in Moulinet?
Many popular mountaineering routes in Moulinet, such as those leading to Lac de la Fous or Lac Mouton, start from Parking du Countet. Another common starting point with parking access is Col de Turini, which serves routes like the Camp d'Argent loop.
What are some notable natural attractions or landmarks along the mountaineering routes?
The Moulinet area is rich in natural beauty. Along the routes, you can encounter stunning glacial lakes like Lac de la Fous and Lac Mouton. The region is also known for its mountain passes, such as Col de Turini and Braus Pass, which offer panoramic views and are often part of the mountaineering experience.
What do other mountaineers say about the routes in Moulinet?
The mountaineering routes in Moulinet are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 5.0 stars from over 3 reviews. Mountaineers often praise the challenging terrain, the stunning high-altitude lakes, and the expansive mountain views that define the region.
Are there any longer, more challenging mountaineering routes for experienced individuals?
For experienced mountaineers seeking a significant challenge, the Lac des Merveilles – Lac Mouton loop from Parking du Countet is a demanding option. This difficult route covers over 20 km and involves substantial elevation gain, exploring remote alpine landscapes.
What is the best time of year for mountaineering in Moulinet?
Given the rugged alpine environment, high mountain passes, and glacial lakes, the best time for mountaineering in Moulinet is typically during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn. This period generally offers more stable weather conditions and less snow cover, making high-altitude routes more accessible and safer.
Are there any opportunities to see wildlife while mountaineering in Moulinet?
The remote and rugged alpine environment of Moulinet provides habitats for various wildlife. While specific sightings are never guaranteed, mountaineers often have the chance to observe local fauna adapted to high-altitude conditions, such as chamois, ibex, and various bird species, especially in quieter, less frequented areas.
Are there any cafes or pubs accessible near the mountaineering routes in Moulinet?
While the mountaineering routes themselves often lead through remote alpine terrain, starting points like Col de Turini are known to have facilities. It's advisable to check for specific establishments in villages or at major passes before your tour, as options can be limited directly on the trails.
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