Take the N85 south of Sisteron to the town of Digne. After crossing the river Bléone near the town centre, stay on the N85 for 500m as it heads south again along the river's left bank. Turn left at a road junction to follow a road that soon passes a large school. Park near the school.

 

The GR6 is signposted on the opposite side of the road to the school. Masochists will be immediately gratified by the prolonged steepness of the initial climb as soon as walk begins. Take the red and yellow waymarked route signposted Caramantran.

 

The narrow path climbs through trees on the north side of the first hill and the town quickly slips below as height is gained. After climbing about 300m the path levels out into a relatively open area along a wide, tree- and scrub-covered ridge.

 

Follow a wider forest track until the footpath is regained off to the right. After a short further climb you will pass another open area with a building and a fountain at les Hautes Bâties. Shortly afterwards a path junction is reached. Take the petit sentier route (yellow markers) to the Pas de Boudillon.

 

The next leg includes a long, steep climb that levels out into a narrow path through woods, skirting the lower flanks of the true summit of le Cousson. Excellent views are to be had as the path visits the western edge of the mountain. At one point, the way climbs steeply past a large rock under an unstable-looking crête under which I, for one,  am not tempted to linger.

 

The path then quickly escapes the trees and climbs to an airy col. The way from here is obvious, and follows the western edge of the ridge all the way to the summit, although it has to be said that the final 100 metres is about as steep as it can get without scrambling being required.

 

After enjoying the southerly views from the summit, follow the ridge as it descends to the east until you reach the chapel, perched on a spur of rock jutting out from the main ridge.

 

As an alternative to retracing your steps for the descent, the path continues further east from the chapel and then turns north-east before descending to join the GR6 at the pas d'Entrages. The GR6 may then be followed to rejoin the up-bound route at les Hautes Bâties.

 

Allow about 6-7 hours for the whole circuit.