4.7
(457)
4,364
hikers
20
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Lacs De Vens 1Er are situated within the Mercantour National Park, characterized by alpine lakes, waterfalls, and diverse terrain. The landscape features dense larch forests, rocky areas, and expansive alpine pastures. Distinctive geological formations, including a natural limestone bridge and the Aiguilles de Tortisse, are present. Steep grey schist slopes also define the region's visual appeal.
Last updated: May 26, 2026
4.5
(6)
58
hikers
13.3km
04:29
670m
670m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
36
hikers
21.8km
10:23
1,890m
1,900m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

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5.0
(1)
26
hikers
10.5km
03:45
600m
600m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
21
hikers
8.39km
02:39
340m
340m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Excellent cheeses, yogurts, sausages…
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A very scenic peak. The route to reach it is quite technical.
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A manageable town with a small market square surrounded by bakeries, grocery stores and restaurants.
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This friendly refuge is set in a very mineral and spectacular environment. It welcomes you in a warm atmosphere and offers local, hearty and tasty dishes. It has 36 beds (reduced to 20 during the winter period). Remember to book on https://refugederabuons.ffcam.fr/FR_home.html
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The plateau and the Col d'Anelle, from the Provençal "lamb", are former summer pasture districts. Culminating at 1,739 meters above sea level, you benefit from a splendid panorama over the Tinée valley and its peaks. A shelter and a water point are erected nearby.
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Auron is a winter sports resort, created in 1937 at 1,600 meters above sea level, on the territory of the municipality of Saint-Étienne-de-Tinée. Frequented in winter as in summer, the resort abounds with shops. Do not hesitate to stop there to enjoy a coffee.
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Saint-Étienne-de-Tinée is a pretty mountain town of 1,400 inhabitants, located in the heart of the Mercantour National Park. Famous in winter for its ski resort of Auron, the city does not lose its charm in summer since it is crossed by the mythical GR 5. In the village made of narrow streets, many shops offer accommodation and catering.
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There are 18 bus-accessible hiking trails around Lacs De Vens 1Er featured in this guide. These routes offer a range of experiences, from moderate day hikes to more challenging alpine treks.
Hikers can expect a diverse range of stunning alpine landscapes. The trails often traverse dense larch forests, rocky areas, and expansive alpine pastures. You'll encounter beautiful emerald green alpine lakes and picturesque waterfalls cascading between them, all within the Mercantour National Park.
While many trails in the region are moderate to difficult, some shorter sections or less strenuous routes can be suitable for families. For example, the Saint-Étienne-de-Tinée loop from Saint-Étienne-de-Tinée is a moderate 8.4 km hike with less elevation gain, offering a good option for families looking for a shorter outing accessible by bus.
The Lacs De Vens 1Er area is located within the Mercantour National Park. Generally, dogs are not permitted on trails within the core zone of French national parks, even on a leash, to protect wildlife. However, regulations can vary in peripheral zones. It's essential to check the specific rules for the Mercantour National Park before planning your hike with a dog.
Yes, several circular routes are accessible from bus stops. For instance, the Saint-Étienne-de-Tinée – Col d'Anelle loop from Saint-Étienne-de-Tinée is a moderate 13.3 km circular hike, and the Col d'Anelle loop from Saint-Étienne-de-Tinée offers a slightly shorter 10.5 km option, both starting and ending in Saint-Étienne-de-Tinée.
The ideal period for hiking around Lacs De Vens 1Er is generally from June to October. During these months, the weather is more favorable, and trails are typically free of snow, allowing for safe and enjoyable exploration of the alpine environment.
Hikers can discover unique geological structures like a natural limestone bridge and the dramatic Aiguilles de Tortisse (Needles of Tortisse). The Refuge de Vens, a mountain hut perched on a cliff, also offers a picturesque landmark and stunning views. Many trails provide panoramic alpine vistas, including the Cime de la Bonnette.
The majority of bus-accessible hikes in this guide are rated as moderate (14 out of 18 routes), meaning they require a good level of fitness and some hiking experience. There are also 4 difficult routes for experienced trekkers seeking a greater challenge, such as the Saint-Étienne-de-Tinée – Refuge de Rabuons loop.
Many of the bus-accessible trails in this guide start from Saint-Étienne-de-Tinée, which serves as a key hub for public transport in the region. Other access points include the hamlet of Le Pra or the Vens parking area, often reachable via shuttle services from Saint-Étienne-de-Tinée during peak season.
Yes, for experienced trekkers, the Saint-Étienne-de-Tinée – Refuge de Rabuons loop from Saint-Étienne-de-Tinée is a challenging option. This difficult 21.8 km route involves significant elevation gain (over 1800m) and offers a demanding but rewarding alpine experience.
The bus-accessible trails around Lacs De Vens 1Er are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the stunning emerald lakes, diverse terrain, and breathtaking panoramic alpine views.
Yes, the region is known for its picturesque waterfalls. Many trails in the Lacs De Vens 1Er area offer views of cascades as they wind through the valleys and between the alpine lakes, adding to the scenic beauty of the hikes.
Saint-Étienne-de-Tinée, a common starting point for many bus-accessible trails, offers various amenities. You can find cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options in the village, making it convenient for pre- or post-hike refreshments and overnight stays.


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