The Croix du Carrelet crests
A fine, easy-going, trilogy circuit combining the quiet of the mountain pastures, the landscape of the crests and the peace of the forest.
The magnificent Alpine meadows form a gateway and an invitation to enter the Grand Renaud corrie. In these wild and virgin landscapes, the absolute quiet of the area encourages observation and contemplation. Once you reach the crests, the feeling of isolation gives way to an overwhelming impression of ethereal freedom. The return through the forest immerses the hiker in aromas, a perfect trilogy for recharging your batteries.
Route details
Park in the entrance car park below Villard-Reymond and take the forest path below the Chemin De Velzut (1614m), which follows the curve of the Cirque du Grand Renaud. After crossing several hollows, the path loops upwards through the magnificent flower meadows in the mountains. The path leads up steeply to Le Grand Riou (1608m), with a plunging view above the wild torrent. From Le Grand Riou, to the left, the winding ascent runs through the vast Grand Renaud corrie, then takes a sharp turn toward a small rocky col up to Le Clot de La Selle (2083m). Continue round the slope through the grass below the crest, until you reach the top. You can then enjoy a panoramic view as far as Croix de Carrelet. The steep, winding descent provides a nice view, then runs through a magnificent forest of larch, pine and spruce. At Col de la Maison du Loup (1785m), turn off towards Villard-Reymond.
More details
Informations to download
Tips
Herd protection dogs : In mountain pastures, protection dogs are there to protect the herds from predators (wolves, etc.).When I hike I adapt my behavior by going around the herd and pausing for the dog to identify me.Find out more about the actions to adopt with the article "Protection dogs: a context and actions to adopt".Tell us about your meeting by answering this survey.
Go there
Latitude : 45.031275
Longitude : 6.019007
38520 Villard-Reymond
Go there
Departure : Villard-Reymond.
Arrival : Villard-Reymond.
Road access : D526 to La Palud, then the D210 to Villard-Reymond.
Parking recommended : Villard-Reymond car park, just before arriving in the village .
Information updated on 03/09/2026
by Parc national des Écrins