Queyras National Park Walking Holiday
Queyras National Park is among the most serene and stunning parks. Situated on the Italian border, it features both towering, rugged peaks and gentle hills with meadows. I recently finished a 6-day journey with friends in this region, spending 4 days hiking from hut to hut in this magnificent setting.
Download my route here.
DAY 1
Its remote location means it is best approached from Italy. I first flew to Turin Airport, then drove 3 hours to the first of the huts in Molines-en-Queyras. While I stayed at Chalet le Genepy, the village is set up well for the ski and walking seasons, and so a number of lodges are available. The drive was incredibly wiggly but had beautiful views.
DAY 2
On the first day of walking, we eased ourselves in gently, covering 12 km to Refuge Agnel. Once we arrived, we dropped our kit, had a drink, and the more energetic of the group went on a side quest to Lacs de l’Eychassier 2.5 km away. The climb up was steep with a 330 m elevation gain but well worth it. The water was clear and fresh and made for an excellent swimming spot. We were then back in time for dinner and some card games. Refuge Agnel, as well as all the other huts, catered well for both vegans and vegetarians, but I would make sure you let them know of any dietary requirements ahead of time.
DAY 3
This was the shortest day of walking with the main route only 6.4 km. However, it did have the most interesting of the side quests. The main route is up and down Monte Pelvo and gives you the opportunity to stand on the border between France and Italy. For those with a slightly more adventurous spirit, you can climb Rocca Bianca, which is an Italian peak. There are a few granny blockers on the route, but there is no need for climbing equipment, just some steady legs and a willingness to venture slightly off the beaten path. On this leg of the journey, we saw a family of ibex who favor the rocky ground.
DAY 4
The longest and most difficult leg of the journey began today, but it also had some of the most beautiful views. The first 10 km are a gentle descent through the valley. For those who are looking for a shorter leg, there is the option to catch a bus through the valley, which the staff at Refuge de la Blanche can help you with. Once at Torrent de Lamaron waterfall, the steepest of the ascents on the route begins. While more challenging, with some well-placed breaks, the group managed well. You can then descend into the valley and walk to Saint-Véran. There you pass several patisseries and ice cream shops to reward yourself after a tough 22 km day. I would recommend the rose-flavored ice cream. We stayed at Gîte Les Baladins, which included breakfast and lunch for the next day but was self-catering for dinner. There was ample space to cook and eat for the group, with a shop open till 7 pm, but if you want an easier dinner, there is a pizzeria and several other restaurants and bars open late.
DAY 5
The journey that ended our loop was 16.6 km through Col de Fromage, where we ate our baguette and cheese, much to the amusement of an old French man. This day had the biggest elevation gain of 1,030, but it felt much easier than the previous day. You will pass a very interesting chalk mine as well as a lovely picnic spot in Fontaine Rouge.
DAY 6
Au revoir, Queyras National Park. After a slow breakfast, the group drove back to Turin and flew home.
I would recommend Queyras National Park to all, whether you're a seasoned mountaineer or a family looking for an adventure. With incredibly well-signposted routes, there is something for everyone, and you can even hire a donkey if you don’t want to carry your bags or maybe just to entertain the kids. The views are breathtaking, and the peaks are high. I will definitely be back to explore more of the area and try some of the more technical climbs.
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