Wed, 30 October 2024
Vertical Climbed: 860 meters (2,822 feet)
Vertical Descended: 854 meters
Rating: 5
Description
From the Pucelles loop on the RD106, take the Sentier de la Vie towards Trou Poussebou then Bois de Poussebou (yellow and green markings). At Bois de Poussebou, leave the Sentier de la Vie and fork right towards Grotte Vallier/Vallon des Forges. At the next junction, leave the Vallon des Forges path on your right and follow the signs for Grotte Vallier as far as the foot of the Château Bouvier rock face. Ideally you need climbing equipment for the 20 meter pitch. At the top of the climb you find the path on the left. Continue upwards. The path then leaves the wooded area. Continue to the summit, following the yellow and blue markings. It is a very steep climb which requires care.
Return via the normal route to St Nizier.
Trip Report
Afternoon walk in the warm autumn sun. The Chateau Bouvier climb no longer has any protection and is a much more serious undertaking than before. It is probably more sensible to go around to the south, it wouldn't add much time. The climb to the summit is on a narrow path which is very steep and exposed in places. Take care. Do not descent via the Chateau Bouvier without a rope.
We then followed the main trail down towards St Nizier before taking the Sentier Ecologique back to the car. As it was getting dark this was a bit tricky with all the tree routes although we did have head lamps.
Warm, even after sunset. Wet in places in the woods.
