Introduction to the Vanoise National Park

Today, I arrived in the village of Nancroix just outside the Vanoise National Park, having driven several hundred miles from the Lac de Serre Ponçon. The journey itself was remarkable: we passed the spectacular Fort Exilles during our foray into the Italian Alps; we travelled the full length of the awe-inspiring Lac de Mont-Cennis with its spectacular glacier scenery; and we reached the lofty heights of the Col de l'Izeran, which at 2770 metres is the highest mountain pass in europe which allows you to take your Renault or your Volvo over.

The Col de l'Izeran

It was, truth be told, a bit of an epic, and shows just how vast the Alps are and how much left there is to discover.

The valley I have found myself in, meanwhile, is itself beautiful. The valley of the Ponteuran river is what you could call the last bastion of wilderness in the area: while the wilds of the Vanoise National Park can be found at the head of the valley, travel in the other direction and you will find yourself swamped by ski slopes and other traits of urban life creeping into the countryside.

In the valley itself, the wilderness survives: just from my chalet I can see forests, rolling hillsides, craggy peaks, tremendous waterfalls and wonderful glacier, with hints of lakes in some of the higher corries. The great alpine bird of prey the lamaguire (also known as the bearded vulture) are said to roost in the highest peaks. This is wild territory, and no mistake.

One of the many waterfalls to be found in this valley

Over the next six days i will be sharing with you the best this valley has to offer.

Enjoy!