28/08/2025
DAY 5: ZINAL – LES HAUDÈRES
Start: Lac de Moiry 🏞️
Distance: 15 km | ⏱️ ~8h | ⬆️ +700 m / ⬇️ –1450 m
Highest point: Col de Torrent (2916 m) 🏔️
Overnight: Hotel in Les Haudères 🛏️
We woke up to a picture-perfect morning at Lac de Moiry – the icy turquoise lake mirrored the first rays of sunlight, while everything around us was still and silent, save for the gentle whisper of the wind. We set off early, knowing that today would be one of the most demanding stages – and that we’d be crossing the highest point of this section: Col de Torrent (2916 m). ⛰️
The ascent was steady, first winding through lush alpine meadows 🌿, then giving way to a stony, rugged landscape. The final stretch to the pass was tough, but the views from the top made every step worth it. Behind us, Lac de Moiry shimmered in the distance, and ahead – an endless sea of majestic Pennine Alps. 🌄
The descent toward Les Haudères felt like a whole different world – long, steep, and technically challenging. The trail took us through wide pastures 🐄, tight switchbacks, and sleepy hamlets where time seemed to stand still. Our knees were feeling it by the end, but after several hours on the trail, we arrived – tired but elated – in the charming village of Les Haudères. 🏘️
The evening was all about well-earned rest, hearty alpine food 🧀🍷, and reflecting on the raw beauty and power of these mountains. A day to remember.