Summer Trail 32 - Le Nielard from Deux Nants

The trail begins at the Roman bridge in the hamlet of Les Deux Nants. At the summit, there is a magnificent view of the east face of the Cheval Noir, La Lauzière, the Beaufortain, Mont Blanc, the Vanoise, Pelvoux, the Ecrins, La Meije, and the Aiguilles d’Arves.

From Deux Nants, follow the sign for Col du Mottet and Les Plans. After a fairly steep start, you’ll reach a large plateau at a place called Les Plans (1,770 m). Sign. Continue following signs for Col du Mottet. Pass by the Chalets d’Orgentil (1,891 m). Signpost. Head toward Col du Mottet. Follow the alpine road, which winds in wide switchbacks, continuing northwest. You’ll pass a junction with the trail leading to the Niélard ruins. Signpost. (Save that for the return trip.) Continue left toward Col du Mottet. In some places, you can cut across the alpine road to reach Col du Mottet (2,374 m). From Col du Mottet, there is no longer a trail; head “east” toward the Niélard ridge. The ascent to the summit via the ridge follows a narrow path; the route is obvious. There are a few somewhat technical, steep, and exposed sections.

This trail is marked with yellow signs.