Signal de Bonavau Loop

The Barme plateau serves as a starting point for many trails. You can typically find parking directly at the plateau itself, which provides convenient access to the various routes in the area.

The Barme plateau is best enjoyed from late spring through early autumn. During these months, the meadows are lush with alpine flowers, and the weather is generally favorable for hiking. From August to October, it's also a prime location for observing migratory birds, especially near the Col de Bretolet.

No, there are generally no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike on the Barme plateau or within the Réserve Naturelle de Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval / Passy. However, always respect local regulations, especially concerning wildlife and protected areas.

Yes, the Barme plateau is generally dog-friendly. However, given that it's a bucolic alpine valley where livestock graze, it's essential to keep your dog on a leash, especially when passing through pastures, to ensure the safety of both your pet and the animals.

The terrain on the Barme plateau is quite varied. You'll encounter lush alpine meadows, distinctive erratic blocks of white limestone, and steep, forested hillsides. Some paths involve a river crossing. While the plateau itself offers easier sections, trails leading up to it, like 'La Braye', can be steep. Overall, it's a mix of well-marked paths and potentially uneven or steeper sections.

Along the route, you can discover several points of interest. You'll pass by the Barme Torrent, and the Cantine des Dents Blanches offers a place to rest. You'll also experience a Forest Trail with Waterfall in Valais. The plateau itself features an old sawmill, traditional chalets, and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Dents du Midi and Dents Blanches mountains.

The duration of a hike on the Barme plateau varies depending on the specific route you choose. This particular tour is estimated to take approximately 3 hours and 37 minutes to complete. Other trails in the area can range from 1 to 3 hours for themed paths, or longer for more extensive loops.

Yes, the Barme plateau offers various options suitable for families. While some trails involve steep ascents, there are also 'very easy' stages, such as the hike from Barme to Bonaveau, which provides magnificent views on a wide and well-marked path. Themed trails like the Smugglers' Trail also have shorter routes that are accessible for casual walkers.

Yes, the Barme plateau is a hub for a diverse network of trails. This route intersects with sections of the 39-Alpine Passes Trail, Tour des Dents Blanches, 40-Alpine Passes Trail, Chemin Sous la Braye, Chemin des Clous, Route de Barme, Chemin des Chapelles, Chemin des Poussettes, and Route de Berroix, offering opportunities for longer excursions or multi-day adventures.

Yes, for longer excursions or overnight stays, there are two quaint mountain huts on the plateau that offer local specialties and cozy lodgings. The Cantine des Dents Blanches is one such highlight where you can find refreshments.

The Barme plateau stands out for its rich history and natural significance. It was once a significant thoroughfare for contraband, a story you can explore on the themed 'Smugglers' Trail'. It's also a recognized north-south flight path for migratory birds over the Alps, with the nearby Col de Bretolet hosting an important ornithological station. The combination of stunning alpine scenery, diverse themed trails, and historical context makes it a truly unique experience.