Heading off west, you’ll come across a large number of marmots which live along the alluvial valley of Prariond. Still on the right bank of the Isère River, enter the gorges of Malpasset. The path is raised but increase its width and equip it with chains to make it easier for hikers to use. At the exit from the gorges, a winding path leads to the car park at Pont Saint Charles (2050m).

Cross the bridge on the D902 towards the Col de l’Iseran. At the first bend, a path goes straight ahead towards the valley. Cross the moor and the junction with the so-called “Mangard” track which goes down to Fornet, continuing straight on into the forest of Petit Bois, then cross in turn the streams of Sounières and Iseran (2039m). This section, through the coniferous trees, overlooks the village of Fornet. At the 1969m point, follow the downward traverse of the nature trail to the Lessieres Stream bridge.

You’re on the GR5. Cross the wonderful lane of the hamlet of Laisinant and, heading along the path that connects with Val d’Isère, walk past the stone gabions. Unless you decide to visit the heart of the village, you’ll arrive at the crossroads of the Saint Jean Chapel (1842m). Turn left, due south towards Manchet. Pass the sports facilities set up for the summer period. At the end of this valley, you reach the old inhabited hamlet of Manchet and the gateway to the Vanoise National Park

At the old hamlet of Manchet, follow the GR55 which crosses the bridge and turns to the south-east of the valley. You can stop for food at the Arcelle farm (2131m). At 2200m, the trail slopes over the dense and sometimes rocky high-altitude meadow to the Fond des Fours Refuge (2537m).