Stage Folly – Bostan

Map of the Folly – Bostan stage

Description of the Folly – Bostan section

From the Refuge du Folly, take the path that climbs gently towards the Combe aux Puaires. This part of the walk is truly magnificent, as throughout the ascent you can admire the thousands of flowers that carpet the valley.

As you continue, the vegetation becomes increasingly sparse, giving way to lapiaz. Carry on along a narrow path that skirts the Pointe Droite to the north. It is important to follow the markings clearly visible in the lapiaz to reach the summit of the Pointe Droite (2,503m) without difficulty.

Once at Pointe Droite, you descend briefly towards the Col de la Pointe Droite (2,475m) before tackling a very steep, winding ascent through scree towards the Pas au Taureau (2,550m). On the north-facing slope, the path descends through a steep scree slope (for 50m) before following a steep rocky gully equipped with cables. This leads to a vast scree slope (⚠️this is a steep snowfield at the start of the season!). The narrow path skirts a rocky spur to join the Tour des Dents Blanches route and the Col de Bostan (2,290m). From there, it is another hour’s descent to the Refuge de Bostan.

Difficulties of the stage

From Pointe Droite, the climb up to Pas au Taureau is very steep and involves sections of rocky terrain where you will need to use your hands for support. The path is well marked, so it is very easy to find your way. The descent from Pas au Taureau is equipped with chains for added safety. Note: for those prone to vertigo who wish to secure themselves, there are safety lines on the section descending from the Pas au Taureau towards the Col de Bostan.

Alternative

It is possible to take a lower route from the Refuge de Folly to reach the Refuge de Bostan, without going via the Pas au Taureau. Allow 3½ hours’ walking time for this alternative.

From the Folly Refuge, take the path towards Samoëns. After a 30-minute walk, you’ll reach a suspension bridge spanning the Nant. Continue the descent towards “Samoëns / le Crêt / le Pied du Crêt”. After 10 minutes, be careful not to miss the fork on the right leading to le Crêt via the Dalles du Tuet.

At Le Crêt, head to the car park and follow the tarmac road for 1.5 km through the hamlet of Les Allamands. On reaching Le Plan aux Arches (the car park for the start of the hike to the Refuge de Bostan and the Refuge de la Golèse), follow the mountain pasture track leading to the Refuge de Bostan.

Stages

• Previous stage: Vogealle – Folly
• Next stage: Bostan – Golèse

Pictures of the Folly – Bostan stage