Hiking La Balme Obscure

  • Pedestrian sports
  • Hiking itinerary
boulevard du riou, 06660 Auron, Saint-Étienne-de-Tinée
A geological curiosity, this natural cave, carved into the limestone by rain erosion, is a must.
Walk through a cool, dark fir forest that can sometimes obstruct the path and require you to step over or around it without difficulty.
Elevation gain +/- 200 m - easy - 3 hours round trip
From the Auron Tourist Office (b.5), follow the GR5 to the Chastellarès plateau (b.9, 10, 11). Pass to the left of the Blainon chairlift and descend on a wide trail. At a hairpin bend (b.14), a logging trail begins that climbs very moderately through the undergrowth (b.14a). Leave the trail in favor of a narrow path where a single intersection marked with a yellow L on the ground will direct you to turn right to reach the Balme Obscure cave (1720 m). After visiting the easily accessible cave, return to Auron by the same route.
This hike is suitable for dogs. Be careful, however, as there is a large presence of wildlife in the Blainon forest!

Services

Services

Pets welcome

Rates

Rates

Free access.

Openings

Openings

From 1 May 2025 until 1 November 2025 - Open everyday

Subject to favorable weather

Location

Location

Hiking La Balme Obscure
boulevard du riou, 06660 Auron, Saint-Étienne-de-Tinée

Spoken languages

Spoken languages
  • French
Updated on 14 July 2025 at 10:58
by Office de Tourisme Métropolitain Nice Côte d'Azur
(Offer identifier : 7327991)
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