Bivouac

The adventure of bivouacking in the Vanoise National Park is an encounter with an unspoilt and grandiose natural environment.

Bivouacking in the Vanoise National Park

More than 400 kilometres of groomed trails skirt the high altitude lakes, cross the rhododendron moors and wind through the mountain pastures. Beyond the coniferous forests, good climbers can tackle the glacial expanses and the majestic Grande Motte glacier. More contemplative hikers will surely have the chance to spot ibex or catch the majestic flight of the bearded vulture.

So if you feel like pushing back the walls of your flat or your legs get excited at the sight of the smallest patch of lawn, the return of the fine weather will whet your appetite for the great outdoors! To make the most of the natural setting that Tignes has to offer during a bivouac, there are a few rules to follow before you pitch your tent.

Some concessions before the great escape

Fans of rooms with a view rejoice! Tonight, you’ll be pitching your tent in some of the most beautiful scenery in the Alps, right next to the legendary peaks of La Grande Motte, La Grande Casse and La Grande Sassière.

As Tignes is the gateway to the Vanoise National Park, bivouacs are permitted from 1^st June to 30 September, and only in the immediate vicinity of certain refuges. There are 22 refuges in the Vanoise National Park, all of which are available by reservation, in exchange for a small fee (5,00€ per person). In Tignes, come and discover the Col du Palet refuge and the La Martin refuge, two not-to-be-missed huts offering a warm welcome in the heart of our mountains.

There’s no Everest-style base camp here! Unlike wilderness camping, only compact, lightweight tents are allowed, from 19:00 to 08:00.

Bivouac with peace of mind in one of the many refuges

Unlike most protected areas, the Vanoise National Park is distinguished by its extensive network of high-altitude accommodation: whatever your itinerary, you are always sure to find a refuge.

This is an added bonus for the wild environment: no pollution or damage caused by the widespread use of bivouacs. Preserved in this way, nature is all the more majestic for it. A good reason not to pitch your tent just anywhere!

Rules for bivouacking in Vanoise

For one night or a multi-day itinerary, the Park gives you the opportunity to set off in the best possible conditions, as long as you book your bivouac in advance.

Bivouacs are permitted in the vicinity of participating refuges, in a site identified for this purpose. Don’t worry, though, there’s no ribboned area!

Free and independent spirits will be able to commune with nature while accessing a number of amenities:

Access to the refuge’s non-sac room and sanitary facilities,
Half-board can be booked. You’ll be walking with a light bag and a light mind!
A bivouac pack is available in some refuges, including a tent, blankets and mattresses.

A real bonus: the hut warden will be happy to help you, share his knowledge of the mountains and add to your experience. Handy when you need a weather report or hiking advice!

So, are you ready to savour the experience?

Things to remember

To enjoy a bivouac in Tignes and the Vanoise National Park, remember :

22 REFUGES: It’s there and nowhere else! Booking is essential as places are limited.
WHEN? From 1^st June to 30 September (subject to availability, so make sure the refuge is open before you go up). The tent must be pitched and dismantled between 7pm and 8am.
THE TENT: It must be light and compact, and must not allow you to stand.
5,00€: This is the cost of the