RANDONNÉES DANS LE VAL FERRET

Elena hut. Start: Courmayeur/Hameau Arp-Nouva, 1,770 m. Finish: Rifugio Elena, 2,060 m. Difference in altitude 290 m. Duration 1h.

From the hamlet, take the wide path leading to the Elena refuge, open from late June to mid-September. It's possible to sleep here (127 beds) and taste real refuge cuisine. The scenery is extraordinary, offering splendid views of the Pré-de-Bard glacier and the Mont-Blanc chain, from the Grandes-Jorasses to Mont Dolent.

Tête-entre-Deux-Sauts (2,728 m). Start: hamlet of Lavachey. Loop route. Elevation gain 1,088 m. Duration 7h.

The summit is the high point of the ledge separating the Malatra and Arminaz valleys, perfect for observing the eastern sector of the Mont Blanc chain, in particular the superb Grandes-Jorasses. From Lavachey, follow the road to the bridge over the Malatra torrent, take the path up to the Bonatti refuge and then follow Haute Route^no. 1 along the Malatra Damon and Goue Damon mountain pastures. Continue along the path alongside the torrent and across the wide basin, then take the path rising to the right and follow the cornice to the summit. On the descent, take the cornice path again, then the other side in the Arminaz valley, passing the Tsa Sécheron, Arminaz Damon and Desot, Sécheron mountain pastures, as far as Lavachey. This magnificent hike is suitable for good, well-equipped walkers. Leave early in the morning with food and water, only in good weather.