In reply to Rick Asher:
I'd second the Sialouze suggestion and particularly that of the traverse of the Meije - one of the very best outings at its grade anywhere surely? Some alternatives:
- Barre Noire S pillar - great setting, often good rock, from a bivi, solitude likely (TD - the most serious route on this list, but also the best)
- Anything on the Contreforts des Bans - Pas d'asile pour pazuzu would fit the bill (TD+)
- Voie Kelle on the Pic Sans Nom (D, loooong and with solitude almost guaranteed)
- Mettrier couloir & traverse on the Pelvoux (D - a significant notch easier than the Pente Centrale which shouldn't be taken lightly! Short couloir giving a way to spice up the ordinary traverse)
- Petit Pelvoux S ridge - Rebuffat likens it to the Meije traverse by way of difficulty. A lovely, sunny route offering another alternative to reach the Pelvoux plateau. Descent by the Violettes glacier is fun too and makes it a truly 'complete' outing. (D)
- As a slight outlier, Eperon Renaud on the Tenailles de Montbrison (not alpine, but nonetheless a long(ish), great route on an aesthetic, solid piece of rock) (TD, physical but sunny and fun)
- Vieux Piton & traverse of the Cineastes (TD, but not anything like comparable to other routes on this list - short, escapable, etc.)
Post edited at 09:16