French Valley Hike

The French Valley is situated in the heart of the Paine Massif and forms part of the renowned W Circuit, making it an essential destination for hiking enthusiasts in good physical condition. A vehicle will transport us to the Pudeto Pier, where we will embark on a half-hour catamaran journey across Lake Pehoé, celebrated for its vibrant turquoise hues and glacial waters. Upon arrival at the Paine Grande Refuge, located on the slopes of the eponymous hill, our hike will commence with a poignant reminder of the affected forests that endured a fire in 2011, resulting in a stark and dramatic landscape. As we progress into the second segment of the hike, we will have the opportunity to observe the resilience of flora and fauna within the Lenga and Coihue forests. Throughout various sections of the trail, we will be able to refill our water bottles. We will traverse the French River to reach the Italian Camp, marking the beginning of our exploration into the valley. Our journey will culminate at the Mirador Francés, a plateau that offers a breathtaking view of the French Glacier, where we can listen to and immerse ourselves in the sounds of ice falls and Magellanic forests.