Winter Adventures – Snowshoeing

Being in the very privileged position we are, that is spending the whole winter season in the mountains, it is almost our responsibility to explore all the winter activities the snow offers.

Whether you are a non-skier or a piste addict, we challenge you not to have the best day exploring a new activity

We thought we would compile a series of our experiences and recommendations so you can pre-plan them into your winter holidays. If you fancy trying one of them out just let us know and we will make the arrangements for you in advance of your holiday.

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is the practice of walking with racket-like attachments for your walking boots that enable you to walk on snowy and icy paths.

Difficulty:

It takes a good few minutes to get used to walking in them and a little longer to build trust in them on icy paths and uphill. Soon though, you will be exploring the winter wonderland with ease.

Adventure Points:

4 out of 5 – Go where no normal shoe has gone before. French and English guides will take you to spots of incredible beauty far from the madding crowd; this adventure is incredible value for money with equipment being provided. The experience is fantastic but the guides make it; their knowledge of the mountain is second to none and you feel completely safe in their hands.

Considerations:

You’ll need a good outdoor shoe or walking boot, waterproof or ski trousers, hat and gloves. Layer up as you will get warm on the walk but temperatures are low and when you stop you’ll know it! Guides will plan a walk to suit your ability but you should be comfortable walking for the time the tour is booked for.

Costs: 

Hire your own kit for around 14€ a day and go and use the dedicated paths within the resorts, or hire a qualified guide for an off piste adventure. Prices vary from 25€ to 60€ for a half day. We recommend Simone at Magical Snow Treks who has been guiding outdoor adventures for 25 years!

Our Experience: 

We booked a 3 hour snowshoe experience with a French guide in the Col Du Corbier. Snowshoes and poles were provided and after a little test around the car park, we set off on one of the walk routes. The Col du Corbier used to be a ski area in it’s own right and is now a hub for alternative winter activities, you could try your hand at Fatbiking when here too.

We were a mixed group of French and English, Children and Adults of all ages, the guide ensured that the walk was suitable for all levels of fitness and experience. The path we followed was wide at first; an old ski run that now feels completely off the beaten track. Our guide pointed out the flora and fauna and identified animal footprints as we walked. It was a cold day with glorious sunshine cut through the trees in beautiful warming rays.

Halfway through the walk we moved away from the track and were treated to a sample of homemade spiced tea and biscuits as we listened to stories and marvelled at the view down the valley. It was a steeper climb back up to the path and back to the start point, the younger children did struggle a little – the weight distribution is important when on an incline and it can feel unnatural – all managed it though. Back at the resort we treated ourselves to a well-deserved hot chocolate in the restaurant which was delicious.

If you are staying with us this year, feel free to ask for more information and we can make bookings for you ahead of your stay. If you are not yet booked, see what’s on offer here.