This classic itinerary leads you through the open meadows towards a high mountain col and a beautiful refuge.
Refuge du Palet
A classic hike leaving Tignes up to a refuge located in the high mountains
Starting from the paravalanche tunnel on the Tignes le Lac side, you take the path on the uphill side heading south west. The route is signposted GR5 and continues for a short while towards the cross at Croix de Lognan. Here the path forks, continue west along the GR5 towards the Col du Palet.
The path steepens and passes under a chairlift before reaching the Col at 2,652m. After reaching the Col the path then dips back down where you will see the Refuge de Palet and the Lac du Grattaleu.
You can also take the left path when you reach the Col. This route will add a little more time onto your walk but will take you to the Col de la Croix des Fretes (2,647m). It's a short variation and will reward your effort with an impressive view of the north face of the Grande Casse. From here you can either head back to the Col or return to the refuge.
To return to the start of the walk, retrace your path back to the Paravalanche tunnel.
What to bring
The route can found on IGN map 3633ET Tignes - Val d'Isère and in the 'Les Sentiers de L'Ete' booklet available from the Maison de Tignes tourist office.
What to see
Sights in Tignes
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Vanoise National Park
The Vanoise National Park is one of the highlights of the Tarentaise region
The Vanoise National Park is one of the highlights of the Tarentaise region.
Where to lunch
Restaurants in Tignes
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L'Alpage des Chaudannes Restaurant
Gourmet restaurant and Savoyard cuisine at the top of Chaudannes chairlift
This cosy restaurant is located on the massif de L'Aiguille Percée, between Tignes le Lac and Tignes les Boisses.
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La Cucùcina Restaurant
Italian cuisine at the famous La Folie Douce mountain après-ski hotspot
Located at the top of the Daille bubble, within the celebrated La Folie Douce hotspot, enjoy gourmet Italian cuisine prepared by a renowned chef and his Italian team.
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L'Arti Restaurant
Contemporary Savoyard restaurant situated in the heart of Tignes Lavachet
Dine in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, in a restaurant that evokes mountain charm mixed with a touch of the seventies.
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Lo Soli Restaurant
Top of Chaudannes chairlift, self service, bar and restaurant serving classic French cuisine
This restaurant situated on the massif de l'Aiguille Percée, between Tignes le Lac and Tignes Les Boisses is open for lunch.
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La Petite Cuisine Restaurant
Canteen-style restaurant in the famous La Folie Douce mountain après-ski hotspot
La Petite Cuisine is La Folie Douce's gourmet-quality, canteen-style restaurant. They serve a perfect mix of high-class local cuisine in a friendly, family atmosphere.
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La Fruitière Restaurant
Contemporary cuisine in a trendy setting at the famous La Folie Douce
Located at the top of the Daille bubble, within the celebrated La Folie Douce après-ski and gourmet hotspot, La Fruitière serves delicious modern dishes based on traditional flavours.
What to do
Things To Do in Tignes
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Chemin des Berger Quad & Buggy Tour
2hr guided tour on a quad or buggy from age 17yrs
Explore the mountain paths and take advantage of the wonderful backdrop on one of these 4x4 vehicles.
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Whitewater rafting
2 - 3.5hr whitewater rafting on the Haute Isere river
Rafting is the most accessible water sports activity on offer. Whether you are looking for an amateur sport, a nature experience or simply a first taste of what a river can offer, you will love this activity!
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Bungee Trampoline
Bounce to 6m high with bungee cords & a trampoline
This is great fun for kids and young adults (up to 80kg). Safely strapped into a harness you can jump high on the trampoline and even learn some tricks.
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Le Lagon Sports Centre
Swimming pool complex in the heart of Tignes le Lac
Watersports complex in Tignes with swimming pool, gym and fitness suite, and a wellness centre.
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Ski bungee jump
A new adrenaline rush combining zip wire, bungee and huge ramp!
Thrill seekers prepare yourselves for the new winter/summer attraction in Tignes. The Bun J Ride allows you to jump a 30m ramp, falling off into a 40m drop on bungee cords, and then locks you into a zip wire taking you back down to earth.
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