- Timing: 3h45’ up
- Best season: November to March
- Aspect of the descent: E
- Ascent length: 7.500m
In the solitude of the Citrin Valley
Mont Flassin is one of the main summits on the S orographic side of the Coumba Freida – Cold Coombe. It may be climbed from several faces, but the most common one is from the Flassin valley, both in view of its scenic presence and the slightly less engaging route.
This itinerary is enveloped in a truly charming setting and ends with the long ascent to the top along the W arête. The approach is somewhat long and sees the crossing of the long Citrin valley, then it overcomes the woody step close to the Coumba and extends to a wide suspended valley as far as the foot of the namesake col. Beyond the col, the route gets more technical during the ascent of the W arête of Mont Flassin. The last stretch of the climb means skis on backpack. From the pre-summit, the view is staggering with sensational glimpses on Mont Blanc and the main Graian Alps summits.
The descent usually takes place on the opposite face, the one of the Flassin valley.
The overall ascent difficulty is somewhat high, especially in the last stretch, where you need to put your skis on your backpack.
From the car park, head due W flanking the stream. Continue on level ground until you reach a large snowy plateau, the proper access to the Citrin Valley. Climb the snowy track of the forestry road briefly and then leave it almost right away, merging with the initial part of the valley. After having crossed the road again, enter the summer path: with a few hairpin bends, climb the densely wooded forest and gain altitude quickly. Close to the ferruginous spring of the Citrin, the path becomes more straightforward and follows the wide crest. Climb out of the wood and reach the Citin du milieu farmhouses (2.005m).
From here on, the backdrop gets wider and the climb becomes a pleasant affair, with a series of humps, while you can make out the imposing silhouette of the Pointe Valletta to the right. Once you have reached the Citrin dessus mountain pasture, go back to the central part of the valley and aim for the Citrin Col, visible to the left of a pylon. Take in the marvellous views that open in front of you and turn left to climb the wide W arête of Mont Flassin. The slope gets steeper and you will need to take your skis off in the last section to proceed more safely. After having climbed this stretch, you will reach the pre-summit of Mont Flassin (2.766m).
Descent
You will pick the best descent lines by choosing the Flassin valley. Overcome an initial, steep section of the arête (eventually on foot) before reaching a wide saddle from which the fabulous valley leading to the Tsa de Flassin farmhouses descends.
Drop down on the plateaus below, aiming to pick the best lines. The last stretch is on the bridleway, usually well marked because of the many enthusiasts who come this way.