Brief description
A very steep trail leading to a house perched dramatically above the village of Niel.
The ascent offers no moments of respite and is best suited for those who enjoy steep and wild paths. Some sections are exposed, so it should only be attempted in dry conditions.
From the house, hikers can enjoy a commanding view over the wide Niel basin, stretching from Col Lazouney to Col Ciaparelle.
Most usefull data
| General evaluation | |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | E+ |
| Uphill slope | 640 m |
| Total length | 4.600 m |
| Total time | 3h 0m |
| Assiduity | Low |
Map
| Start point | Niel car park |
|---|---|
| Start elevation | 1.546 m |
| Arrival point | Ruck |
| Peak elevation | 2.177 m |
| Max elevation | 2.177 m |
| Exposure | Some |
| Downhill slope | 640 m |
|---|---|
| Uphill time | 2h 0m |
| Downhill time | 1h 0m |
| Uphill trail sign | 5 |
| Downhill trail sign | 5 |
Start point description
From the Pont-Saint-Martin motorway exit, turn right towards Turin.
At the second roundabout, turn left in the direction of Gressoney.
The road climbs for a few hundred meters before branching off to the right into the Lys Valley, passing through the villages of Lillianes, Fontainemore, and Issime.
Continue until you reach the main village of Gaby, where just before the bridge over the Niel stream, a road on the right leads towards Niel.
This road first follows the stream, then crosses it and climbs the mountainside with wide hairpin bends until reaching Chanton.
From here the road narrows; continue along it until the end, where you will arrive at the charming village of Niel.
Trail description
From the car park, take the steep mule track that climbs immediately above the village of Niel.
The trail gradually shifts to the left, leading to the Léka huts.
The route continues to climb through rocky sections, with some exposed stretches, before traversing leftwards to reach a hut at 1,898 meters.
From here, the final small valley begins: ascend it, then cross to the right to reach the fully restored house of Ruck.
The return follows the same path, with care required due to the steepness of the slope.
Last update
30 October 2025, 11:00