Self-guided micro-adventures, gear tips and outdoor inspiration
Do you want to get away from it all and experience a real adventure in the mountains ? For a weekend, bivouacking while hiking allows you to slow down, reconnect with what's essential and discover the Alps from a different perspective: wilder, more intimate, more real.
In this article, we offer eight 2-day self-supported bivouac hiking routes in the Alps, allowing you to experience a night under the stars amidst high-altitude lakes, panoramic ridges, and pristine valleys. Each route is an invitation to travel light… but well-equipped.
Before you leave, make sure you have the right equipment: suitable hiking boots, technical clothing, a comfortable backpack, a lightweight tent, and a high-performance sleeping bag. You'll find everything you need in our hiking shop , for both men and women.
Emparis Plateau – A natural balcony overlooking the peaks
Isère / Savoie
The Emparis plateau is ideal for a first high-altitude bivouac . The slopes remain accessible, the landscapes are open, and the high-altitude lakes offer perfect spots to pitch a tent. A contemplative hike, ideal for taking your time.
Equipment advice
A well-fitting backpack and comfortable hiking shoes are essential to fully enjoy the route.
Elevation gain : 700 to 900 m
Tour du Lauvitel – A wild immersion in the high mountains
Oisans, Isère
More physically demanding, the Lauvitel loop rewards the effort with a raw and unspoiled alpine atmosphere. The route crosses wild areas where managing effort and self-sufficiency is paramount.
Equipment advice
Opt for breathable hiking clothes , a warm fleece for the evening and a sleeping bag suitable for cool nights at altitude.
Elevation gain : 1100 to 1200 m
Chamechaude Tower – The Chartreuse Mountains in a gentler version
Chartreuse Mountains
This route offers a beautiful diversity of terrain: forests, alpine pastures, and panoramic ridges. Bivouacking in the clearings is peaceful, and the early morning ascent to the summit adds a magical dimension to the experience.
Equipment advice
A well-organized 40-50L hiking backpack will make managing equipment easier over two days.
Elevation gain : 900 to 1000 m
Sache Valley – Raw and discreet nature
Savoy
This secluded valley is ideal for those seeking peace and quiet and wildlife observation. The atmosphere is wild, but some evenings can be marred by mosquitoes.
Equipment advice
Remember to bring a mosquito net , repellent spray, and lightweight covering clothing , available in our hiking accessories section.
Elevation gain : 1000 to 1200 m
Vercors High Plateaus – A self-sufficient adventure
Drôme / Isère
Here, there are no shelters or cell phone service: complete self-sufficiency is required. The route is not very technical but demands excellent preparation, especially for water, food and bivouac sites.
Equipment advice
Essentials: water filter , lightweight stove, compact tent , and suitable sleeping bag . Find our complete selection of camping equipment in store.
Elevation gain : 700 to 800 m
Aiguilles de Lus – The mineral Dévoluy
Drôme / Hautes-Alpes
A more challenging route, reserved for hikers comfortable with navigation. The scenery is spectacular, raw and wild, with a real sense of isolation.
Equipment advice
A hiking GPS , a map , and shoes with good grip are essential on this terrain.
Elevation gain : 1100 m
Mont Thabor – A great alpine classic
Hautes-Alpes / Savoie
Between lakes, alpine pastures, and a panoramic summit, Mont Thabor offers a complete experience. Camping near the lakes makes the adventure even more memorable.
Equipment advice
Bring warm clothes , a light down jacket , and a windproof tent .
Elevation gain : 1200 m
Tour des 7 Laux – Wild Belledonne
Isère / Savoie
A challenging route with an impressive rocky landscape. The bivouac by the lakes is one of the most beautiful in the Alps, provided you have reliable and lightweight equipment .
Equipment advice
A well-organized bag , hiking poles and a comfortable bivouac mattress make all the difference over two days.
Elevation gain : 1200 m
Things to remember before going camping
Two days of hiking and a night in the wilderness require planning and respect for the environment. Always check local regulations regarding camping, adapt your equipment to the weather, and take your trash with you.
Having the right equipment means enjoying yourself more.
In our hiking shop , you will find all the necessary equipment for your bivouac adventures:
- men's & women's hiking shoes
- technical clothing
- backpacks
- tents , sleeping bags and camping accessories
All you have to do now is choose your route… and set off on your adventure.