Traversée du Mercantour
A high-level traverse of the Mercantour National Park through glacial lakes, limestone peaks, and wildflower meadows between the Ubaye valley and the…
Route overview
The Traversée du Mercantour is a long-distance alpine trail of approximately 180 kilometres that traverses the Mercantour National Park in the southern French Alps from the Ubaye valley to the Mediterranean coast near Menton. The route follows the GR 52 and GR 52A through one of the wildest and most biodiverse mountain areas in France. The trail crosses several high passes above 2,500 metres including the Col de la Bonette, the highest paved road pass in Europe, and the Col de Cerbillona. It passes through glacial lakes such as the Lacs de Prals and the Lac d'Allos, limestone peaks, and alpine meadows famous for their summer wildflower displays. The Mercantour is one of the last refuges of the Alpine wolf and is home to chamois, mouflon, and golden eagles. The southern section descends steeply through the Vallée des Merveilles with its prehistoric rock engravings, reaching the coast at Menton. The route is demanding with long days, significant elevation gain, and…
A high-level traverse of the Mercantour National Park through glacial lakes, limestone peaks, and wildflower meadows between the Ubaye valley and the Mediterranean coast.
Trail facts
- Country
- France
- Region
- Alpes-Maritimes, French Alps
- Distance
- c. 180 km
- Typical duration
- 8–10 days
- Difficulty
- Hard
- Elevation gain
- c. 10,000 m cumulative
- Best season
- June–September
- Trail type
- Alpine traverse
Safety context
High passes are snow-covered until late June. The descent to Menton is steep and exposed. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer. Water sources can be scarce on the highest sections.
Some refuge accommodation requires advance booking. The southern section near the coast is hot and humid in summer. The trail is less frequented than the Tour du Mont Blanc, so solitude is common.
Highlights
Barcelonnette and the Ubaye valley Col de la Bonette Lac d'Allos Vallée des Merveilles prehistoric engravings Mercantour glacial lakes Limestone peaks of the Mercantour Menton coastal finish Wildflower meadows in July
Why find a buddy
A wild alpine traverse with high passes, glacial lakes and Mediterranean finish — a companion adds safety on remote high sections and shares one of France's most dramatic mountain-to-sea transitions.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.