To the Pointe des Chaudannes

Les Karellis is a ski resort located in the Savoie Alps, west of the Maurienne Valley. In winter, Les Karellis is a popular destination for families due to its car-free environment. In the summer, however, like most French purpose-built ski resorts, it becomes deserted. This makes it the perfect spot for two- or four-wheeled off-road enthusiasts, who can tackle the impressive climb to the Pointe des Chaudannes, the highest peak of the mountain region around Les Karellis, at 2,519 meters. The roads and trails used for this adventure mainly serve the maintenance of the ski lifts.

Starting from the Maurienne Valley at Saint-Julien-Mont-Denis, take the D 81 and ascend the mountain flank via Le Bochet and Montricher, reaching Les Karellis via the D 818. From there, head toward Lac de Pramol on a section of asphalt. After nearly a kilometer, a forest trail branches off, winding uphill on decent gravel. The forest thins out, and at a junction, the climb to the tour's destination—the Les Chaudannes ski station—begins. This stretch offers a stunning visual cocktail of views down into the valley and across the snow-capped mountain peaks. From a driving perspective, it provides a challenge with steep sections, eroded surfaces, and rough gravel. After a final steep segment, the wheels reach the ski station at 2,400 meters. The panorama here is simply breathtaking.

Returning to the junction, keep right and take a gentle forest trail past Lac de Pramol to return to Les Karellis.