Tour de l'Obiou

Pellafol > Bachilianne 11,7km / +870m / -172m

Starting from Pellafol, the first stage of this tour rises gently, following the contour lines. The route quickly leaves the meadows behind for mixed deciduous and coniferous forests, then climbs toward the Bachillianne mountain pasture, where a magnificent panoramic view of the Obiou unfolds.

Bachilianne > Tréminis 15,5km / +500m / -1300m

Once you have climbed the Col de l’Aiguille, a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape opens up. From there, head due south along a magnificent trail that hugs the mountainside, alternating between pastures and rocky hollows (watch out for lingering snow!). After passing through lovely clearings, the descent begins, leading down to the bed of the Ébron stream and on to Tréminis.

Tréminis > Lachaup 17,6km / +1290m / -820m

Leaving the village, the trail winds between fields and forests to reach the Col de la Croix, then climbs eastward to the Col de Charnier - the gateway to the Hautes-Alpes. Amidst a rugged, rocky landscape, descend the Charnier valley to the magnificent curved rock cliffs. The GR® trail passes alongside the Chourum Clot - an impressive chasm plunging into the depths of the massif - before reaching the hamlet of Lachaup.

Lachaup > Pellafol 19,2km / +830m / -1220m

This pleasant, scenic traverse follows the boundary between alpine pastures and forests. At times, the trail opens up, offering glimpses of the impressive, rugged valleys of the Ferrand and Obiou ranges. The route crosses several hollows to reach the Col des Faïsses, where Mount Obiou rises up one last time. The descent begins through the forest, leading down to the village of Pellafol.

Tour de l’Obiou: a hike in the heart of a fragile heritage site

The Tour de l’Obiou is far more than just a long-distance hike; it is an immersion into a pristine natural setting. Spanning alpine pastures, shady forests, high mountain passes, and rocky landscapes, the route showcases the diverse environments that make the massif so rich, passing through several areas designated as Natura 2000 sites.

This biodiversity supports a discreet yet remarkable array of wildlife: chamois, marmots, and vultures, as well as rarer species such as the black grouse and the rock ptarmigan. As for the flora, hikers can spot iconic Alpine plants - such as orchids, the lady's-slipper orchid, and the Alpine poppy - that contribute to the unique beauty of the trail.

It is crucial to maintain this fragile balance by preserving it. Adopting the right habits in the mountains is essential: staying on the trails, respecting the flora and fauna, not picking plants, not lighting fires...

Bivouac and Tour of L'Obiou:

As the Tour de l’Obiou route runs primarily through areas where agriculture and pastoralism are active, you cannot simply set up camp anywhere. We have identified several locations where bivouacking is tolerated.

Pellafol 

Bachilianne

Tréminis

The 10 Commandments of the Good Hiker:

- Early in the season, patches of snow can make certain sections dangerous.
- The route is not suitable for pet dogs.
- Check the weather forecast before setting out, especially for the risk of thunderstorms, which can make some streams impassable.
- Stick to the marked trails; do not cut across alpine pastures.
- Do not leave any litter behind, even biodegradable waste.
- Water sources are scarce: carry enough water, especially in summer.
- No fires: fires are strictly prohibited along the route.
- Close all gates behind you.
- Book your accommodation in advance to secure your overnight stop.
- In the event of an accident or emergency, call 112.