This circular hike offers a chance to explore old paths and mule tracks through enchanting forests, connecting the hamlets of Mellier and Petit Rosier, and the historic Echely Chapel. The route provides opportunities to experience local forest fauna and flora as well as the rural history of these areas. Additionally, visiting the Echely Chapel area reveals the significance of faith and religious practices among mountain communities in the Alps.
After parking in the Mellier square, bypass the hamlet for now (you’ll visit it later) and walk along the regional road for about a hundred meters to find the start of the old mule track (trail no. 13A), which once linked Mellier to the Rosier area. Follow this mule track, which winds above Mellier through pastures and sparse forests, until you cross a small stream via a bridge. The trail ascends gently through the forest until you reach the Rosier area, where you’ll encounter a fork. It is recommended to visit Petit Rosier by taking the left path, which climbs to the hamlet characterized by stone and wooden houses, ancient rascards, and the Chapel of the Immaculate Virgin, situated near a large fountain. After exploring the hamlet, return to the fork in the forest. From there, continue towards Grand Rosier for about a hundred meters until you reach the junction with trail no. 14C. Take the right path (trail no. 14C), which descends steeply through the forest to the regional road, passing near a large rock face. A short round trip is recommended to visit the Echely Chapel (1196 meters above sea level), a historic crossing point on the main mule track of the Champorcher Valley and an important religious site for travelers. Behind the chapel, there is a rock climbing area. From the Echely Chapel, it is also advised to descend a bit towards the valley, following the mule track for about a hundred meters until you reach the regional road. Cross it carefully to view the inscription on the rock, created by Victor Emmanuel II to commemorate the royal road and the royal hunting lodges in the Dondena area. After visiting this significant historical site, retrace your steps to the junction. Then, walk along the regional road for about a hundred meters to find the path on the right that will lead you back to the historic hamlet of Mellier. In this section, you will cross a forest and then pastures below the small hamlet of Coudreyt before passing through the old village of Mellier with its historic houses.
Technical notes: Suitable for families.
