In the heart of the Mercantour National Park, the Vens Lakes are the jewels of Upper Tinée. The ideal period for botanists and photographers is the end of June-start of July. Plan a stopover at the refuge for a slice of blueberry tart to be savoured on the terrace overlooking the lake.
| Department | Alpes-Maritimes |
|---|---|
| Departure municipality | Saint-Étienne-de-Tinée |
| Outing type | Hike |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Duration | 6:30 |
| Recommended period | from june to october |
| Environment | Mountains |
| Kilometres | 17 km |
| Altitude upon departure | 1700m |
| Change in altitude | 900m |
After the village, take the road leading to the Bonette Pass. Stop at the hamlet of Le Pra. Start the walk at marker 32.
Initial climb to the Morgon Plateau with views over the hamlet of Le Pra. Cross the Tortisse Plateau and climb up to the border and the Fer Pass, from where there are views over Italy. Cross to the Tortisse Pass which offers a superb sweeping view over the lakes and the Vens refuge. Descend to the refuge and cross over to the right bank of the lake on the mountain side. At marker 25, turn right and start the descent to Le Pra.
