Trekking the GR5 Trail

An essential guidebook for walking the GR5, one of the world’s most spectacular long-distance trails. The GR5 makes its way through the Alps from the shores of Lac Léman at Geneva to the Mediterranean at Nice. A route of 674km (420 miles), it can be trekked in a month, or split over a series of summer trips. The GR5 is well within the reach of fit and moderately experienced walkers and backpackers. There is good signposting and waymarking, and accommodation, food and drink are all available at regular intervals. The paths and tracks are generally well graded, while steep climbs are tackled on zigzag paths, so the overall gradient is not so severe. Every summer, thousands of walkers embark on this trek.

This guidebook also describes some scenic variant routes, including the stunning GR55 through the Vanoise National Park and the delightful GR52 that crosses the Mercantour National Park. Full descriptions and maps are provided for these alternatives. The book includes daily stages, timings, ascents and descents, full-colour mapping and gradient profiles, alongside information about facilities and services along the route. The result is an ideal companion to planning and completing your trek.

A guidebook to trekking the GR5 from Lac Leman (Lake Geneva) through the French Alps to the Mediterranean at Nice or Menton. Covering 685km (426 miles), this long-distance trek through the Vanoise, Queyras and Mercantour National Parks takes around 1 month to hike and is suitable for alpine trekkers with a good fitness level.

The route is described from north to south in 28 stages, each between 15 and 29km (9–18 miles) in length. The route is divided into 6 sections with transport options given for those wanting to break the route into shorter sections. The GR55 and GR5E variants are included through the Vanoise region and the optional finish taking the GR52 to Menton is also described.

• 1:100,000 maps and profilesincluded for each stage
• GPX files available to download
• Handy route summary tables and accommodation listings help you plan your itinerary
• Refreshment and facilities information given for each trek stage
• Part of a 3-volume set, accompanying Cicerone guidebooks The GR5 Trail – Vosges and Jura and The GR5 Trail – Benelux and Lorraine are also available