Balcon des Balais - Hiking trail

This hike offers lovely views over the valley, and lets you discover life in the mountain pastures. You'll discover the different hamlets of Valloire. You'll pass over a Himalayan footbridge! Finally, keep your eyes peeled for marmots.

Discover one of Valloire's must-do hikes, a panoramic loop that plunges you into the heart of its authentic hamlets. Along the way, marvel at spectacular views of the surrounding peaks, with the majestic Grand Galibier in the background.

From the very first steps, the trail gently guides you around the Saint-Pierre rock, before leading you to the charming 19thᵉ century chapel. You'll then continue along the Valloirette, in a pleasant shady forest conducive to coolness and contemplation.

The highlight of this hike? Its superb balcony trail, offering a unique immersion into the heart of the Balais alpine chalets and landscapes open to the whole valley.

To round things off in style, the playful descent winds through the fir trees before taking you over a Himalayan footbridge, adding a touch of adventure to this unforgettable escapade.

The trail is marked with yellow directional signs.

Map of Valloire hiking and mountain biking trails, on sale at the tourist office.

IGN map 3435ET VALLOIRE - Aiguilles d'Arves / Col du Galibier is on sale in Valloire shops.

1/ Go back down towards the "rond point de la vache", take the path behind Carrefour Montagne towards the Saint Pierre chapel.
2/ After the chapel, you'll come to a dirt track. Go left for 100m, then take the yellow signposted path on your right.
3/ Follow the signs for "Les Verneys" for 1.5km to the bridge.
4/ Cross the bridge and take the road opposite to the left of "La Boulange".
5/ Follow the road up to the intersection, turn right and then, 10 m further on, take the wide track on the left.
6/ Continue on the track between the houses as far as the footbridge.
7/ Turn left onto a narrow path and continue as far as Chalets de Beaujournal, then Les Balais.
8/ At the "Les Balais" sign, turn right on a balcony path to the concrete slab.
9/ Take the path on the right which descends (steeply) following the signs for "Le Serroz".
10/ Before reaching the dwellings, take the path signposted "Le Pont du Diable".
11/ Cross the footbridge, turn left and follow signs for "La Borgé".
12/ Join the carriage track which descends on the right to the starting point.