Take the D951 from Valernes towards La Motte du Caire, turning onto the D1 to pass through Clamensane and on to a small commune called le Forest-Lacour. At the junction, turn right onto an unclassified road that leads into the hills up to and past Esparron-la-Bâtie. Unless the road is very icy it is worth carrying on towards le lac des Monges as far as you can. During July and August it is possible to drive up to the car park at the lake but at other times the road is barred a couple of kilometres from the lake. If so, park near the barrier.

 

If you have parked by the barrier, continue to walk up the forest track as far as the lake (this will take about 30 minutes). There is a small refuge at the lake with seating - ideal for picnics.

 

Follow the forest track as it leads along the eastern part of the lake until you reach a red and white marker indicating the col de Clapouse. This track becomes a path as it continues through the trees, contouring the hillside.

 

The path eventually leaves the wood and opens into the wide open spaces overlooked by les Monges and la Laupie. It continues to the only steep part of the walk then levels out to pass the Cabine de Clapouse, a usually deserted building in the lee of the towering rocks of les Monges.

 

Follow the track as it contours the next hill until you reach the col de Clapouse itself, which offers views across to the Blayeul and the tete d'Estrop.

 

To return, retrace your steps. If you have made suitable transport arrangements, it is also possible to continue from here up to the Croix de Veyre and to face a two-hour walk down to Authon.