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Mont Buet & les aiguilles Rouges

Get away from the lift systems and 4×4 tracks to discover the beautiful nature reserve of the Aiguilles Rouge and summit Mont Buet, a 3096m peak with panoramic views of the Mont Blanc Massif.

THREE DAYS OF HIKING AND A 3000+ SUMMIT

Climb to the top of Mont Buet at 3096m.

TWO NIGHTS IN AUTHENTIC ALPINE HUTS

Dinner, breakfast, picnic lunch included.

PLENTY OF FLORA & FAUNA SPOTTING OPPORTUNITIES

Alpine flowers, chamois, marmots, birds of prey.

MONT BUET & LES AIGUILLES ROUGES

This beautiful three day trek takes you into the heart of the Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve, spending two nights in authentic mountain refuges.

Starting from the pretty village of Servoz in the south of the Chamonix valley, you’ll hike up first through small hamlets and pastoral farmland and then into a more wild landscape. Arriving at Refuge Moede Anterne, hopefully in time for a refreshing drink on the terrace before dinner, you can relax and take in the magnificent view of the Rocher des Fiz – a dramatic mountain chain that towers over the surrounding contours. The original refuge was built in 1898 and is still standing, not far from the newer building where we will sleep.

The following day takes us from the Réserve de Passy to the Col de Salenton, a wonderfully remote trail with a steady climb up through the valley. Look out for some old stone squares, these are the ancient ruins of the Chalets d’Écuelle… Once at the Col we have the option to summit Mont Buet, a majestic peak of over 3000 metres. First climbed in 1770, it has played an important role in scientific discovery of the geology and cartography of the region. A steep but scenic descent brings us to the Refuge Le Pierre à Bérard, tucked into the edge of the valley underneath an enormous block of stone.

Our final day begins with a gradual descent through the Vallon du Bérard, where you’ll follow a twisting stream to the impressive Cascade de Bérard. From here we head towards Le Buet and Col des Montets to pick up the trail to La Flegere. A fairly steep climb takes us up past the mountain lakes of Les Cheserys and on to the famous Lac Blanc. This high-altitude lake is picture-perfect, on a good day you can get a crystal-clear mirror image of the Mont Blanc Massif in its reflection. The refuge here is the ideal place to enjoy a piece of myrtle tart and soak up the fabulous views. A short descent brings us to the lift station and down to Les Praz.

This hike is one of the best for spotting alpine wildlife. The remote nature of the trails means that there is less disturbance from lift systems and fewer people, so the chances of seeing marmots and chamois are good! Bring your binoculars for bird watching of an evening outside the refuges. The accommodation on both nights is in mountain refuges. Comfortable and cosy but not luxurious, an authentic alpine experience.

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Beginner to intermediate tech level

  • Fitness level 3/5
  • Dates on demand
  • 3 days of trekking
  • Available June-September
  • 2 nights in mountain huts
Blueberries
Alpine flora
Hiking in Berard valley
Hiking to Mont Buet
Hiking around Chamonix
Chamonix hikes
Hiking through the pastures around Chamonix
Chamonix alpine wildlife
Alpine flora
Hiking in Berard valley
Hiking to Mont Buet
Clothing
Warm hat
Clothing
Thermal underwear
Clothing
Fleece or woollen layers
Clothing
Light puffer jacket
Clothing
Windproof and waterproof jacket
Clothing
Windproof and waterproof trousers
Clothing
Warm gloves
Clothing
Thin gloves with leather palms for better grip
Clothing
Sun hat
Clothing
Hiking boots
Clothing
Hiking trousers
Clothing
T-shirts
Clothing
Shorts
Clothing
Long sleeve shirt
Clothing
Casual shirt or t-shirt
Clothing
Waterproof poncho or backpack cover
Technical gear
35 – 45 litres rucksack
Other essentials
Sunglasses
Other essentials
Water bottle – Ideally two 1L bottles
Other essentials
Sun cream high protection (for lips and face)
Other essentials
Headlamp with fresh batteries
Other essentials
Washbag and toiletries
Other essentials
Towel
Other essentials
Earplugs
Other essentials
Basic first aid kit
Other essentials
Sleeping bag liner – lightweight
Included in price

IML Mountain Leader fees

Guidance by a fully qualified IML Mountain Leader

Mountain huts

2 nights  in mountain huts with breakfast and dinner included.

Office Support

Our team is based at the foot of the Aiguillle du Midi cable car and will be happy to help you with any questions you may have before, during or after your trip to Chamonix.

Not included in price

Accommodation in Chamonix

Accommodation in Chamonix is not included. We will be happy to help you find and book accommodation on request.

Miscellaneous expenses

Expenses such as drinks, snacks, etc.

Personal Equipment

Please see the “Equipment” tab to find out what you will need on this trip / course.  For private customised guiding, please contact us directly to confirm your personalised kit list.

Travel to Chamonix

The price does not include flights, airport transfers or any other travel to/from Chamonix. However, we can organise airport transfers for you on request, please contact us for details.