Sleeping under the stars with a view of the mountain peaks is a magical experience. But this spectacle is a privilege that demands absolute respect. The mountains are a fragile environment where we are merely guests: settling there for the night means committing to leaving no trace of our presence. There are a thousand ways to discover our magnificent territory, but they all begin with the same gesture: respecting the mountain.
Bivouac vs Camping
Don't confuse wild camping with bivouacking!
> Wild camping is prohibited: It means settling in the same place for several days.
> Camping is tolerated: It's an ultralight and temporary camp, only from sunset to sunrise. We set up late, leave early, and the mountain regains its wild state during the day.
The "golden rules" of bivouacking
⏱️ The right timing (from sunset to sunrise): The bivouac is temporary. You pitch your tent at nightfall (from 19-8 pm) and take it down first thing in the morning (before 20 am). During the day, the mountain should regain its wild character.
🚫 No fire on the ground: Campfires are strictly prohibited (increased risk of fire, lasting destruction of the soil and micro-ecosystem). Use only a camping stove and set it up on a stable surface (rock or bare earth).
🗑️ Zero waste, zero trace: We take absolutely everything downstairs, including organic waste (peelings, leftover food) which disturbs wildlife. Tip: Pack an opaque garbage bag in your backpack.
💩 Natural toilets: For relieving yourself, you must stay at least 60 meters away from bodies of water (lakes, streams) and trails. Bury your waste (using the "cat hole" method) and never leave toilet paper or wipes behind (take them away in a sealed bag).
💧 Respect for water and dishes: Never wash your dishes or bathe directly in lakes or streams, even with biodegradable soap. Collect water, wash your dishes at a distance, and disperse the dirty water on the ground.
🤫 Shh… absolute discretion: The mountain belongs first and foremost to the wildlife and livestock. Avoid shouting, listening to music, and use a headlamp in discreet mode (red light if possible) so as not to stress the animals.
🐑 Sharing the space (alpine pastures and properties): Do not set up camp near herds of livestock or shepherds' huts. Remember that the mountains are not public space: every piece of land, even empty, belongs to a private owner or a local municipality. Check before pitching your tent! Absolutely avoid meadows with tall grass. (Just FYI: grass flattened by a tent is unusable for making hay to feed our cows this winter and to make our delicious Reblochon cheese!). Do your research before pitching your tent.
