LITMIR.BIZ

      High above the sea of cloud in the Arve valley, on the Aiguillette des Houches

      From Le Bettey go along the road towards La Flatière and be sure to look at the view from this idyllic spot. A path heads off right to Plan de la Cry signed as ‘Plan de la Cry par sentier’. Take this. The Pierre Blanche is signed left soon after and later left again. This trail goes north across a wooded hillside in a rising traverse. At a junction (straight ahead, signed to Montvauthier) go right up a pleasant trail in the woods. There is a light-coloured rock by the trail – is this the Pierre Blanche?

      This path takes you to the Pierre Blanche ridge at Pt 1687 on the IGN Top 25 map.

      Now the shoulder is followed, with extensive views down to the Diosaz Gorge on one side and towards the Mont Blanc massif on the other. The ridge leads to the summit of Aiguillette des Houches, with just one detour to the right (southern slopes) under the first high point.

      Once on the summit enjoy that 360° vista – this is a really special panorama.

      For the descent, head south in a series tight of zigzags, which soon give way to easier ground. Pleasant high meadows are descended to reach a sharp turn right (west) to the Chalets de Chailloux, where there will most likely be a big flock of sheep grazing. After the chalets the path goes into forest. At the path junction at 1782m choose the right-hand option signed to Plan de la Cry, which goes down to this hamlet. A quick descent past the houses and you’ll be back at the car.