Place Moulin - Lac Mort

From the Place-Moulin dam in upper Valpelline, waymark no. 7 leaves the lakeshore and climbs firmly through rock and pasture to Lac Mort (over 2,700 m), a glacial basin set below the border peaks with Switzerland. A demanding climb for the concentrated ascent, rewarded by a stark, silent setting and views of the Grand Combin massif. For fit hikers; best July to September, once snow has left the basin.

Along the way — you move in the wild valley dominated by the Dent d’Hérens and the Grandes Murailles, toward the Place Moulin reservoir. You reach high-altitude lakes, panoramic passes and scree frequented by marmots and ibex. It calls for a fit hiker’s pace and proper footwear.