August 9, 2024

Fouillouse, 1.900m

Waking up around 6 a.m., it’s very cold, so I put on my down jacket over my fleece and make myself a cup of coffee. Departure around 7:30 am to tackle the first pass of the day.

Along the way, a sign indicates that a battle between France and Italy took place here in 1940, and I try to imagine a war in this peaceful landscape.

Col du Vallonnet, 2,524m

I head back down to the valley until I reach the Viraysse military road, which I take in the direction of the next pass. I pass the Viraysse barracks, just before reaching the Col de Mallemort.

Col de Mallemort, 2,558m

I start the descent to Larche.

Larche, 1,666m

The café that was supposed to stock a few groceries is closed, so I continue on my way to the campsite, hoping to find some supplies.

It’s lunchtime and very hot, so I’m glad to find a little table in the shade when we get to the campsite. I order a Tome sandwich and a beer. I also absolutely have to charge my external battery because I’m planning to sleep at Lazanier lake and I don’t have much battery left.

An hour and a half later, I’m back on the road with a half-charged battery and a few purchases at the campsite grocery store.

I skirt the river and climb into the forest on a small road to reach Portes du Lauzanier.

Then it’s another steep climb to the lake. There’s a lot of traffic going in the opposite direction, so this must be a popular place to spend the day.

Lac du Lauzanier, 2,308m

By the time I reach the lake, there’s hardly anyone left. The water is incredibly transparent.

I take a look around to choose a spot for my evening bivouac. I then prepare semolina seasoned with spices and lemon, with tomato and eggs.