Pic de Caramantran

The start is from Chianale where you climb to the Agnello Pass on asphalt. In the trail this section is missing but it is impossible to miss; just climb. The track covers the entire offroad section on trail. From the Colle dell 'Agnello short degression and then a little pedaling, a little pushing we reach the Col de Chamossière. We continue until we climb the Pic de Caramantran, one of the few 3000 to allow mtb access without a deadly shoulder bike section.

Here excellent views of all the surrounding peaks, from Monviso to White Rock to Roc de la Niera. You descend and then briefly push on to the Colle di St.Veran at 2848 meters . From here if you wish you can already descend to Chianale but we go further up to Col Blanchet at 2897 meters with several push/shoulder sections. Nice descent on Blue Lake which we pass until we reach a junction marked Black Lake. It is a short uphill bike ride/return but well worth it.

Once back on the main trail we start to descend determinedly alternating flowing stretches with more technical ones with some very challenging steps. The hike ends in Chianale, a hamlet worth a visit.

Warning!!! Although this is an itinerary that allows you to reach 3,000 meters with relative ease, it is still a CYCLING itinerary where the pleasure of hiking and discovery comes before being in the saddle necessarily.

Full report here.