The best mountain hikes around Lac du Mont Cenis

There are 5 distinct mountaineering routes documented around Lac du Mont Cenis, offering a range of experiences from moderate to difficult.

While most routes in the Lac du Mont Cenis area are classified as difficult, there is one moderate option: the Col de Sollières – Mont Froid loop from Ancien Fort de Pattacreuse. This 6.8-mile (11.0 km) trail leads through mountain passes and historical sites, typically completed in about 4 hours 28 minutes.

For those seeking a significant challenge, the Col de Bramanette (2855 m) loop from Le Cernay is a difficult route covering 15.7 miles (25.2 km) with over 1300 meters of elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Refuge du Petit Mont Cenis – Signal of Petit Mont Cenis loop from Refuge du Petit Mont Cenis, an 8.4-mile (13.6 km) path with over 1000 meters of ascent, offering expansive alpine views.

Yes, several routes in the area are circular. For example, the popular Petit Mont Cenis Refuge – Lac de Savine loop from Ancien Fort de Pattacreuse is a 10.3-mile (16.6 km) difficult trail offering views of Lac de Savine. Another circular option is the Col de Sollières – Mont Froid loop from Ancien Fort de Pattacreuse.

The mountaineering routes around Lac du Mont Cenis feature varied elevation profiles. You can expect ascents ranging from around 260 meters on routes like the Via Ferrata des Cascades loop from Novalesa, up to over 1300 meters for more strenuous treks such as the Col de Bramanette (2855 m) loop from Le Cernay.

Many routes offer stunning panoramic views of the alpine landscape. The Refuge du Petit Mont Cenis – Signal of Petit Mont Cenis loop provides significant elevation gain towards the Signal of Petit Mont Cenis, offering expansive alpine vistas. The region itself is known for its rugged peaks and glacial lakes, ensuring scenic outlooks.

The area around Lac du Mont Cenis is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You can explore the impressive Lake Mont Cenis and the Mont Cenis Dam. Some routes also pass by historical fortifications, adding a cultural dimension to your alpine adventure.

The mountaineering routes in Lac du Mont Cenis are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Mountaineers often praise the varied terrain, which includes high mountain passes, glacial lakes, and historical fortifications, offering a diverse and rewarding alpine experience.

Many mountaineering routes around Lac du Mont Cenis start from accessible points like Ancien Fort de Pattacreuse or Refuge du Petit Mont Cenis, where parking is typically available. It's advisable to check specific trailhead information for detailed parking options before your trip.

The best season for mountaineering in the Lac du Mont Cenis region is generally from late spring to early autumn (June to September) when the snow has largely melted, and weather conditions are more stable. This period offers the most favorable conditions for traversing high alpine terrain and enjoying the glacial lakes.

While the listed routes are primarily day tours, the extensive high alpine terrain and network of trails in the Cottian Alps, where Lac du Mont Cenis is situated, lend themselves to linking multiple routes for multi-day treks. Planning such an adventure would involve combining several of the challenging routes and considering overnight stays in refuges or designated camping areas.

Mountaineering routes around Lac du Mont Cenis vary in length. You can find shorter, more intense routes like the Via Ferrata des Cascades loop at about 3.2 miles (5.1 km), up to longer, more demanding treks such as the Petit Mont Cenis Refuge – Lac de Savine loop, which covers 10.3 miles (16.6 km).