The stage from the Cabane de Chanrion (2462 m) to the Cabane des Vignettes (3160 m) is one of the scenic highlights of the Haute Route. The ascent of the Pigne d’Arolla (3796 m) reaches the highest point of the entire traverse. The long climb over the Glacier du Brenay leads through an impressive glacier landscape and rewards you with an exceptional summit panorama of the Valais Alps.
Over roughly 13 km, there are about 1350 m of ascent. The tour requires excellent fitness, sound glacier technique and favourable snow and weather conditions. If you want to skip the summit, you can instead climb to the Cabane des Vignettes via the vast Glacier d’Otemma and the Col de Charmotane.