Saint-Martin-de-Belleville
Looking for a hidden corner of untamed mountain just a stone's throw from Saint-Martin-de-Belleville? Head to the Vallée des Encombres. With its quiet trails, peaceful atmosphere and chance encounters with wildlife, this unspoilt valley offers a true escape from it all.
Saint-Martin-de-Belleville
Saint-Martin-de-Belleville
Far from the cobbled streets and traditional chalets of Saint-Martin-de-Belleville, this is where the call of the wild sets the tone. Here, it's just you, the whisper of the river, the call of marmots, the rustle of the wind in the trees, and the fleeting silhouette of an ibex basking on a sunny ledge. Welcome to the Vallée des Encombres: a preserved alpine gem, easily accessible from Saint-Martin-de-Belleville, where the mountains reveal their raw, unfiltered beauty.
Let nature set the pace
Whether you're a contemplative rambler, a seasoned trail walker or a mountain biking enthusiast, the Vallée des Encombres invites you to explore at your own pace. Follow the marked footpaths to reach the hamlets of Planlebon and Les Priots, winding through forests, alpine ruins, footbridges and sun-dappled clearings. Runners will find plenty to enjoy too: the itineraries are perfect for an introduction to trail or fitting in a training session surrounded by untouched alpine scenery.
And for biking enthusiasts, the Vallée des Encombres track lends itself perfectly to electrically assisted mountain biking. A regular, little-frequented ascent, accessible to all. The route leads to the Gittamelon refuge: a gourmet break in the heart of the mountains, before continuing on or turning back – the choice is yours.
Practical information
- The Planlebon route (6.6 km – 2h50 – D+ 330 m) departure point is located in the Parking in the hamlet of Les Frachettes.
- The VTTAE1 route starts in Saint-Martin-de-Belleville. Track suitable for vehicles all the way to the Gittamelon refuge.
Saint-Martin-de-Belleville
Saint-Martin-de-Belleville
Step into the history of Planlebon
There's more to the Vallée des Encombres than just walking. Here, you also step back in time. As you follow the trails, you'll come across traces of a now vanished rural world. The hamlet of 'Plan Lebon' may no longer be inhabited, but its spirit lives on in the ruins, the chapel still standing, and the information panels dotted along the way.
These hamlets once rustled with life: women, children, herds, hay and village fairs. Today, they offer a haven for the imagination, a quiet poetry in their abandonment that stirs the curiosity of passing walkers.
In one of the old buildings, you can flick through the pages of a small book of local stories. You'll uncover fragments of life, alpine memories, and echoes of the past. And if the mood takes you, you can even ring the chapel bell. Its chime still carries through the valley – like an echo from another time.
Stop off at the Gittamelon refuge
Tucked away in the heart of the valley, Anne-Sophie and Marc welcome you to the Gittamelon refuge in a peaceful, authentic setting. This charming stone-and-wood chalet, nestled at 1,800 metres, is accessible on foot, by mountain bike, or even by car along the mountain track. It's the perfect place to pause: enjoy lunch on the terrace, tuck into a homemade afternoon snack, share a traditional mountain dinner, or spend a quiet night in the calm of the Alps.
The refuge serves generous, down-to-earth cuisine with local flavours: black chanterelle mushroom fondue, steaming tartiflette, diots in white wine, homemade crêpes... As night falls, the light fades over the Aiguilles de la Moendaz, the air grows cooler, and the sky slowly fills with stars.
Practical information:
- Refuge open from 5 July to 31 August.
- Half board: €46 (night + dinner + breakfast).
- Booking recommended. Please bring cash or cheques (no credit cards).
Saint-Martin-de-Belleville
Saint-Martin-de-Belleville
Climb all the way to the Grand Perron des Encombres
From the refuge, the most determined hikers can push on to the iconic peak of the valley: the Grand Perron des Encombres. This is a challenging hike (880 m of elevation gain, 6 h round trip) suited to experienced walkers. The trail winds its way through gypsum sinkholes, alpine pastures and rocky ridgelines. At the top, a cross marks the summit at 2,823 metres.
Here, you'll be entirely surrounded by breathtaking views. Mont Blanc, the Écrins, Grande Casse, the glaciers of the Vanoise massif... And often, a few sunbathing ibex, utterly unbothered, watching hikers pass by.
Be sure to bring water, hiking poles for the climb, and why not a pair of binoculars: edelweiss and vultures are never far away! Also remember to take your Vallée des Belleville summer hiking map.
Practical information
- Departure possible from Gittamelon or the Caseblanche parking lot.
- Difficulty: difficult, even very difficult on the last section (15 km – D+ 1,180 m – 6 to 7 h return).
Saint-Martin-de-Belleville
Saint-Martin-de-Belleville
Saint-Martin-de-Belleville
Try canyoning at La Varlossière for adrenaline and fresh mountain air
Looking for a thrill to round off your adventure in the Vallée des Encombres? This summer, a brand new canyoning route has opened at La Varlossière. Accessible from age 15, it's a fun and refreshing experience that includes abseiling down waterfalls, sliding over smooth rock, jumping into crystal-clear pools and much more.
All safely supervised by experienced professionals who'll guide you through the secrets of the mountain stream. Just the thing after a big hike and a great way to enjoy the joys of wild water.
Practical information:
- Price: €69 per person.
- Just 20 minutes from Saint-Martin-de-Belleville.
With rugged mountains, silence, ancient stones, the scent of dry grass, and sunlight dancing on the peaks, the Vallée des Encombres is the perfect place for slowing down, observing, and feeling. And if you want to take your experience further, why not let yourself be guided? The Vallée de Belleville Mountain Guides Bureau offers accompanied hikes here you can uncover the valley's secrets, learn to read the landscape, spot signs of wildlife, or simply share a timeless moment.
