From Wild Blueberries to Savoyard Mess: A Culinary Journey on the Trail

The flavours of the Grand Tour de Tarentaise are as memorable as its views. The culinary journey is a delightful progression from simple, foraged treats on the trail to hearty, regional dishes in the refuges, creating a full-circle experience that connects hikers to the taste of the landscape itself.
The journey begins with the simplest of pleasures: “thickets of wild blueberries” found along the path between Refuge du Lac du Lou and Gittamelon. Foraging for these sweet, sun-ripened berries is a direct and delicious interaction with the alpine ecosystem, a snack provided by the mountain itself.
The culinary experience evolves in the evening. The mountain refuges serve as custodians of Savoyard cuisine, offering comforting and nourishing meals to fuel tired bodies. These dinners are a celebration of local ingredients and traditions, providing a literal taste of the region’s culture.
The journey culminates in a moment of rustic sophistication at Refuge Plan Lombardie with a “Savoyard blueberry version of Eton mess.” This dessert perfectly ties the experience together, elevating the humble wild berry found on the trail into a creative, delicious confection. It’s a final, sweet reminder that on this trail, the landscape both feeds the body and nourishes the soul.