Bivouac as a couple at Lake Ascension

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Setting off as a couple, light bags, simple objective: to sleep by the water. We leave La Roche-de-Rame at the end of the afternoon, we take the path that climbs steadily towards the Lac de l’Ascension, and we aim for the arrival before dusk. The pace is quiet, each in his own hand, with two or three breaks to drink and find a flat spot for the night.

At the lake, things are done in order: find a discreet spot, far enough from the bank, set up the small tent, put on a down jacket and turn on the water for the meal. The idea is not to make it complicated: a hot dish, a thermos for the evening, then we slip into the duvets. The night is calm, we wake up early for a coffee facing the water, then we fold up neatly and go back down by the same route. It’s short, simple, and it feels good.

In the end, it’s a micro-adventure designed for a weekend or a weeknight: climb in the late afternoon, night at the lake, coffee in the morning, and return before noon. You don’t have to go far to get away as a couple — just get a little organized and respect the mountain.

Route side

For the route, start from La Roche-de-Rame (car park in the village) or, when the track is open and passable, from the Lauzet chalets to shorten the approach. Follow the signs for ” Lac de l’Ascension – par le Peyron “: footbridge over the Bouchouse torrent, undergrowth then pine forests, and climb up to the right bank of the Ascension torrent before the mountain pastures that lead to the lake. At the beginning or end of the season, find out about the opening of the Lauzet slope (often degraded) and the snow cover at altitude; In case of doubt, departure from the village. Return by the same path, or in a loop via Lake Escur if the weather and the schedule allow it — always keep room to descend in daylight.

Do you want to embark on your first bivouac in the mountains? We tell you everything! On our side, we stay basic: light tent, insulating mattress, duvet adapted to the season, stove + gas bottle, a headlamp to see clearly, a small first aid kit just in case, warm and windproof clothes and a bottle of water. We check the weather and the condition of the trail before leaving, and we let a friend and family member know when we will return. For the meal, a freeze-dried or pasta, and something to eat breakfast without wasting time.

Respect for the place Our little tips

We stay on the path for the approach, we choose a spot already marked if possible, we set up the tent far from the water (at least 200 m), without fire, and we leave with all our waste. If your itinerary enters the heart of the Écrins National Park, apply the bivouac rule between 7 p.m. and 9 a.m . only. If in doubt, ask the Tourist Office or the town hall for confirmation; The objective is to enjoy the place without degrading it.