Tour of the Monolith on foot via the Biches trail

When the snow melts in the Val Cenis Sardières Nordic skiing area, swap

your cross-country ski boots for hiking boots. Here you are, embarking on an

adventure in this enchanting forest, dotted with majestic Scots pines. Squirrels

discreetly escort you, looking faintly amused at your antics.

As you approach the imposing limestone peak, your eyes are drawn to a

peculiar little shrub. Meet Erica Carnea... Sounds like a movie star, doesn't it?

But it's really a protected species in Vanoise National Park. Is this the plant

they call winter heath? Bold and eager, it manages to grow even before winter

comes to an end. With its colourful little bells, it braves the bad weather and

can even break through the blanket of snow. What a find! But be careful not

to trample this little gem, it's very rare in France!