Col du Montfossé ou du Villonet (2457m)

This high-mountain hike explores one of the most secluded areas of the Vallée des Villards. Starting from l’Échaut, the route follows a pleasant balcony trail with beautiful views of the surrounding peaks. Along the way, hikers pass the Croix de la Charmette and the ruins of the Chalets du Balais, reminders of the area's pastoral heritage. The trail then reaches the Vallon des Croix before arriving at Lac des Balmettes, set within a striking alpine landscape. Beyond the lake, the terrain becomes increasingly wild as the ascent continues towards the Col des Balmettes. The crossing to the Col de Montfossé, also known as Col du Villonet, leads through remote scree slopes and little-frequented mountain valleys where paths can be faint or even disappear altogether. Beyond the pass, the route continues through the Combe du Croza and past the Chalets de la Vieille Route before joining the marked trail in the Combe du Merlet, which leads back down to l’Échaut. This demanding hike requires excellent physical fitness, strong navigation skills and solid experience of high-altitude terrain with limited waymarking.