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Ski touring Vanoise Haute Route

vanoise ski tour

Level 1: You have never practiced.

Level 2: You have some initial experience.

Level 3: You practice occasionally.

Level 4: You practice regularly.

Level 5: You have a sustained practice.

  • General information
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In the spirit of the Haute Route Chamonix-Zermatt, we offer you the chance to embark on roaming ski crossings through exceptional landscapes, ensuring a deep immersion in high mountains and a complete change of scenery. Nestled in the heart of the Savoie region, between the Isère and Drac rivers, and home to some of the finest ski resorts in the Tarentaise region, lies the vast mountain range that houses the very first French National Park: the Vanoise Park. Here, you can ski within a well-preserved wildlife sanctuary and revel in the extraordinary mountain landscapes it offers. With its terrain perfectly suited for ski touring and a network of highly comfortable mountain huts, this ski-touring adventure truly embodies alpine perfection.

The Vanoise Haute Route is only possible for private groups.

A private booking is the historical relationship that binds a guide to his/her client. It allows you to be alone, or in a constituted group, with your guide that meets your specific needs. It is undoubtedly the ideal formula to realize your projects because it guarantees you a maximum of comfort. You are free to choose your departure date (depending on the availability of the huts) and the itinerary can be adjusted, according to your specific expectations

Dates : On request, depending on the availability of the refuges From mid-March to April

Prices 2024 : 2 people : 2335€ per person 3 people : 1710€ per person 4 people : 1395€ per person 5 people : 1210€ per person 6 people : 1085€ per person Included in the package: - IFMGA English speaking mountain guiding service - half-board in mountain huts (dinner, breakfast and night) - ski lift access as per programme - transfers as per programme - rental of full safety kit (avalanche transceiver/DVA, shovel, probe)   Not included in the package : - take out lunches and daily snacks, you can buy it in huts - personal drinks in huts and other personal expenses (we recommend you bring Euros and Swiss Francs) - cost of getting to meeting point and cost of getting back to Chamonix - personal technical equipment  

In this section, find all the information about this activity. To prepare your trip effectively, refer to the guides’ tips . They share their expertise and recommendations, ensuring you have a great experience.

Meeting point : On Day 1, in Moutier, train station. Your guide will precise you the timetable

Physical level : For people participating in regular endurance activities. Vertical ascent of up to 1300m per day. Seven to eight hours of exercise per day. Backpack includes mountaineering equipment (crampons and ice axe). Carrying skis. Altitudes of under 4000m.

Technical level :  For advanced ski tourers . Varied slopes, a few technical sections (slopes up to 35º). Solid technique in all snow conditions. Mastery of basic mountaineering techniques (walking with crampons and ice axe) and kick turns.

Guiding policy : Maximum 6 people per guide. 

Accommodation : Half-board in huts. Before & after the trip: We have some hotel partners in Chamonix with special prices for our customers.

Documentation : Participants must have mountain sports insurance with repatriation cover. We strongly recommend that this also includes cancellation cover. You can take out insurance when you sign up. Participants must also take valid ID with them.  

Documents available for download

  • Information sheet
  • Guides' tips
  • Conditions of sale
  • Client rights
  • Insurance contract

We recommend you to pay particular attention to the choice of your equipment. It contributes greatly to the success of your stay. Weight is decisive: you always have to evaluate the ratio weight/comfort, to find the best compromise. 

Equipment  - Comfortable frameless rucksack of 35l on which you could fix your skis & ice-axe, - Ski touring skis & shoes, rentable - Adhesive climbing skins & ski knifes adapted to your skis, rentable - A pair of poles with large discs, rentable - A security pack including harness, DVA, shovel & probe - this pack will be lend by your guide. - A pair of light crampons & an ice-axe. rentable   Clothing - Waterproof and windproof, non-insulated parka with hood (Gore-tex or equivalent), rentable - Waterproof and windproof, non-insulated pants, rentable - Thick polar-pile fleece jacket or equivalent, - A light down jacket, - 1 long-sleeve shirt, - Medium weight thermal underwear (top + bottoms, silk or polypro, double as pyjamas), - Warm ski socks, - Warm ski hat and light sun hat with brim, - Warm ski gloves or mittens, - A pair of thiner/finer gloves (in leather or fleece), - Neck protection, - Spare thermal underwear (for sleeping and change).   Accessories - High-altitude sunglasses (grade 4 is recommended), - A pair of goggles, - 1.5L water bottle, - An isotherm bottle, - A mini toilet bag including: sun block for face and lips, aspirin, elastoplast, 2nd skin kit, earplug, toilet paper, - A headlamp with spare batteries, - A cotton or silk sleeping sheet: compulsory in every hut. - Hut provide blankets, slippers or clogs - A plastic bag containing your ID card & Euros for extras.

Our Rental Partners : You can rent your equipment with our rental shops partners and benefit from special price Sanglard Sports , Ravanel & Co &  Concept Pro Shop Our Equipment Partners : Millet , Dynastar , Julbo , Grivel & Monnet  

Moutiers - Refuge Peclet Polset  Transfer by local bus from Moutiers to Val Thorens (1 hour). From Val Thorens, we ride the lift to get to Thorens Pass (3 114 m). After putting our ski-touring skins on, we skin up to Gébroulaz Pass (3 434 m), and enjoy a superb run down the Gébroulaz glacier. We continue towards Lac Blanc and Peclet Polset hut, which was entirely rebuilt recently. Vertical ascent: 320m / Vertical descent: 960m  

Refuge Peclet Polset - Refuge de la Dent Parrachée  Several options can be approached to get to Parrachée Hut. The guide will select the route most adapted to snow conditions and group progression. Two possibilities: Brèche de la Croix de la Rue (2 883 m) or Aussois mountain Pass (2 916 m). We ski close to the Fond d’Aussois hut and we skin up to the cosy Parrachée mountain hut (2 511 m). Vertical ascent: 630m / Vertical descent: 600m  

Refuge de la Dent Parrachée - Refuge de l'Arpont Our day begins with a beautiful tour up Labby glacier to reach Labby pass (3 328 m). Once at the foot of Dent Parrachée we ski down Mahure glacier, and above Arpont lake, to arrive to the Arpont hut (2 309 m), with its typical stone roof. Vertical ascent: 820m / Vertical descent: 1020m  

Refuge de l'Arpont - Refuge Félix Faure We ski tour up to Dôme de Chasseforêt (3 586 m), part of the Vanoise Dômes group. We traverse to the Sonailles Dôme (3 361 m), then to the Pelve pass (2 992 m), and put our skins back on our skis to get to the Dard pass (3 135 m).   A beautiful ski run down Roche Ferran glacier takes us to the Vanoise pass and Félix Faure mountain hut (2 516 m) Vertical ascent: 1420m / Vertical descent: 1220m  

Refuge Félix Faure - Champagny le Haut The Grande Casse mountain pass and glacier allows us to reach the Grande Casse North face (3 855 m). We admire the dramatic looking Couloir des Italiens. We take an easier route to ski to the valley and the hamlet of Champagny le Haut (1 470 m), followed by a taxi ride to Moutiers. Vertical ascent: 580m / Vertical descent: 1630m  

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Discover the carbon emissions of this activity and add your trip to the meeting point.

CO2 emitted per person for the activity: 59 kg . Learn out more about the footprint calculation of this activity

CO2 emitted per person for this activity & journey(s) = 0 kg In order to limit global warming to +2°C by 2100, the COP-21 agreement stipulates that each human should emit no more than 2t of CO2 per year. According to the French Ministry of Ecology , today European citizens emit an average of 11t per year, and American citizens emit an average of 21t annually. , or 5.9€ The price for a ton of CO2 is currently 100€ in the European Union to offset.

Find out more about our zero impact strategy .

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The Vanoise national park is in the Tarentaise Valley. It is the largest national park in the French Alps and is bordered by several large ski resorts, Les Trois Vallées, Tignes, Val-d'Isère, Les Arcs, La Plagne. It extends onwards to the Gran Paradiso National Park on the Italian side of the border and together, these two parks cover over 1,250 km².

The Vanoise is probably one of the most beautiful areas of wilderness in Europe accessible to ski tourers. Six days of intensive and highly rewarding ski-mountaineering crammed with big ascents and 'out-there' descents plus at least one night in one of the most stunning huts in the Alps! This tour is the jewel in the crown of the Vanoise area and is ideal for experienced ski tourers and mountaineers looking for a challenging yet highly rewarding week.

Day Itinerary

We meet for our first evening in Brides-les-Bains which is a little less than two hours by road from with Geneva airport. There will be a welcome meeting and briefing with your Mountain Tracks guide at 7pm in the hotel.

Brides-les-Bains will give us access into the huge Trois Vallées ski area and we start the tour by taking the long Olympic gondola direct from Brides to Meribel. We ski through the Trois Valley system to the Col de Thorens (3100m). From the col we begin a relatively short skin to the Col de Gebroulaz (3417m). From here a long north facing descent down the Glacier du Gebroulaz takes us past the Refuge de Péclet Polset (2450m) and on to the Refuge du Roc de la Pêche (1880m). Here we stay the night.

Today the route begins with a relatively long ascent to the Col de la Aussois (2914m). Then a long but fairly gentle descent takes us past the Refuge du Fond d'Aussois and a short skin up to the Dent Parrachée Refuge (2516m). This is a rustic hut with great food and atmosphere.

Leaving the Dent Parrachée Refuge we ascend in a northerly direction to the Glacier de Labby, and on to the high and exposed Col de Labby (3324m). Sometimes it is necessary to climb the last steep section with crampons.  On the other side is the Glacier de la Mahure. This long and exciting descent leads down and around a shoulder past the Lac de Arpont (2600m) and on to the Refuge l'Arpont (2310m)

Today we ascend steeply on to the Glacier de Vanoise leading to the Dome de Chasseforet (3586m), this is a relatively long skin of up to 4 hours. From the top, an exciting North facing descent leads to the Col de Pelve and Point Ouest du mont Pelve (3000m). We ascend with our skins to the Col du Dard (3170m) before crossing to another glacial plateau. Finally we descend steeply to the Col de Vanoise and the Refuge Col de la Vanoise (2500m)

Heading east down the valley from the Felix Faure we arrive at the Torrent de la Leisse (2099m). We ascend on skins to the Refuge de la Leisse (2487m) and on to the steep Col de Pierre Blanche (2842m). Switching to downhill again we travel east finishing at the beautiful and remote Femma Refuge (2352m) where we spend the night.

Today we head to Val d’Isère north east via Pointe de la Sana (3463m) and the Col des Barmes de Lours (3077m) or east via Pointe de Mean Martin (3300m). These peaks forming the backdrop to the Val d’Isère ski area give long and exciting descents. The final run along the Manchet valley into the bustle of Val d’Isère feels like a final homecoming after a long voyage.

We return to Bride Les Bains by public transport or private taxi for our last night.

Depart after breakfast

The price includes:

  • 6 days with IFMGA guide
  • all guide's fees & expenses
  • 2 nights B&B hotel accommodation
  • 5 nights half-board accommodation in mountain huts 

The price does not include:

  • lunches and beverages
  • personal insurance
  • hire of ski equipment
  • local transfers and uplift costs
  • travel to/from Brides Les Bains
  • 2 evening meals

*Single rooms subject to availability and supplement.

We are proud to offer all of our returning customers and the Ski Club of Great Britain members a £50 discount.

The promotion is valid for qualifying bookings made before the end of October 2023.

BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE

Your Financial Protection ATOL £2.50 per person of the cost of any air package is paid to the Civil Aviation Authority to provide ATOL Protection to you. This means the money paid for these arrangements is fully protected. Our ATOL number is ATOL 2911. For more information see our booking terms and conditions. ABTOT ABTOT provides protection for your booking as set out in Holiday Information. Ski Club Winter Arrangements limited (trading as Mountain Tracks) Registered in England No. 2099115. VAT No. GB 461 5692 34

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vanoise ski tour

This is an extensive list of the recommended clothing and equipment you will need if you are coming to one of our Ski Tours.

During the tour you will be staying most nights in catered high mountain huts and will need to carry all the equipment and clothing you require for the duration of the tour. The huts are comfortable but basic with limited facilities. 

Any clothing or other items not required on the tour can be left in a travel bag at your first hotel ready for your return on the final night.

We recommend keeping the weight of your pack as light as possible. If you are new to alpine multi-day ski touring, try taking your pack out on the slopes before the tour to see how it feels. You quickly realise the benefit of ‘skiing light’.

If you are uncertain or need further information, don't hesitate to contact us.

When choosing clothing for ski touring you want to think light, warm and versatile. During the trip weather conditions will change and you’re likely to go from warm afternoons where you’ll be carrying most of your gear in your rucksack, to icy-cold mornings when you’re wearing everything to keep warm! Getting hold of the best and lightest kit available is always worth it and most of the major brands will be able to supply a suitable kit.

This season, we’ve partnered with Ortovox to provide us with the very best safety kit and clothing. Our guides will all be decked out in the latest Ortovox jackets and trousers and will keep warm, dry and comfortable thanks to their technical wool base- and mid-layers. Our guides couldn’t recommend their kit more highly.

  • Roll neck rather than a scarf. We use and recommend the ‘Buff¹ ¬ a light, stretchable tube. Excellent despite the name! They do both a fleece/cotton version for warmth or just a cotton one (to keep the sun off).
  • Headwear to include warm hat and sun-cap or wide-brim hat for extra protection from the sun. Mountain Tracks fully supports the wearing of helmets for skiing, although not mandatory for any of our trips we do recommend them.
  • An outer shell jacket made of waterproof and breathable material like Gore-Tex or similar with a built-in hood. The lighter the better and so a shell is recommended rather than an insulated jacket.
  • 1-2 thin fleeces - rather than a thick layer between your skin and the outer shell - an approach which gives better heat retention and good flexibility. These tops are known as ‘mid layers’. The principle of ‘layering’ e.g. allowing you to easily add/remove layers depending on the temperature and the activity is recommended to ensure comfort on the mountain.
  • Insulation layer like a down or Primaloft jacket is a good item to have ready to wear in the event of cold weather, it can live in your rucksack as a spare layer and can come in very handy for sudden changes in the weather.
  • For the lower half it’s essential that you have a pair of thermal base layer pants (long johns).
  • These can then be combined with either:
  • (a) a good pair of ‘technical shell’ pants in a waterproof and breathable fabric like Gore-Tex (b) a pair of mountain or alpine pants in a softshell material together with a pair of lightweight, breathable over trousers with long side zips.
  • Top and bottom underwear made of a synthetic, wicking material. Very popular at the moment are the wool based layers from companies such as Ortovox . They are comfy, breathable and warm when needed and can be worn for days without your friends catching a whiff!
  • Good quality Gore-Tex gloves or mitts and a thin pair of softshell or fleece gloves for when it is hot and for ski touring in. Silk inner gloves can be useful if the weather is cold and you suffer from cold hands.
  • Technical Socks - Investing in good quality ski socks will improve fit, warmth and feel when skiing for long periods. Bring along a few pairs.

For all touring trips it is essential you ski with an all-mountain/freeride type skis, ski touring boots and ski touring bindings. If you have your own skis but they do not have ski touring bindings then you will need to rent skis. The same applies if you have downhill ski boots, you will need to rent ski touring boots. Skis

This winter our lead guides are using Elan skis . Praised by magazine testers and professional skiers alike for its unique blend of lightweight performance, the Ripstick 96 is proven to be the ultimate freeride ski in all snow conditions. The Ripstick 106 is the ultimate freeride ski for any terrain. From boundary line to the base lodge, peak to the parking lot, and trailhead to tailgate this ski excels in all conditions. The new Ripstick Tour 94 is designed on a wider platform, enabling the skier to float better, ski faster, and turn easier in backcountry conditions.

It is built to blend high performance at a low weight, for the perfect mix of freeride downhill performance and efficient ascending capability. With Ripstick Tour 94, the confidence to conquer long ascents and charge challenging descents is the name of the game.

There are many ‘all-mountain/freeride’ skis to choose from and we also recommend skis from Salomon, Dynastar, Movement, Black Crows, Trab Skis, Scott and Volkl.  Look for a ski that is the right size for your height, typically the tip of the ski should be somewhere around your nose height.  As for the width of the ski or “side cut” a mid-fat ski – 90-110mm under the foot is a good place to start; this offers plenty of flotation off-piste while remaining suitable for day tours and they should also handle reasonably well on piste and mixed terrain.

Elan Skis: www.elanskis.com

Dynastar Skis:  www.dynastar.com

Movement Skis: www.movementskis.com                                        

Black Crows Skis: www.blackcrows-skis.com/

Trab Skis: www.skitrab.com/en-us/

Scott Skis: http://www.scott-sports.com

Volkl Skis: http://www.voelkl.com

There are plenty of other great skis to choose from so if you’re planning on buying skis for ski touring or general skiing and have any questions do not hesitate to call us, or Lockwoods, to discuss the options available.

If you are planning on buying skis for ski touring and general skiing and have any questions do not hesitate to call us to discuss the options available to you. Boots

It is essential that you have ski touring boots for these trips as walking uphill is much more comfortable in these types of boots with a walk mode and great flex; a dedicated touring boot or a hybrid hike & ride boot is best. 

Our guides are using ROXA boots. They recommend R3 ski boots , the lightest high-performance alpine ski boot in its class. The 110 TI is geared for big mountain chargers who may use “Tech” and/or Alpine bindings and often hike or skin to find their lines . The RX Tours is targeted toward skiers who prefer to blaze their own trail and leave the lift lines behind.

Scarpa has led the way in touring boots for many years but they have been joined by other manufacturers like Dynafit, Salomon, Scott, Black Diamond, Dalbello and K2; all producing their own versions of ski touring boot.

• Scarpa’s Freedom boots are their Hybrid offerings, with great ski performance, a walk mode and Vibram sole. Their Maestrale (men’s) and Gea (women’s) boots are also highly recommended. • The Scott Celeste and Cosmo boots have stood the test of time and are good all-around choices. • Salomon’s Quest Max series offer boots with a walk mode in various flex’s with good downhill performance. • Dynafit offer the Mercury or Vulcan boots plus a range of lightweight options like the TLT6. The best of the rest are: Fischer - Transalp Black Diamond – Quadrant and Factor K2 – Pinnacle boot Dalbello – Lupo or Sherpa Langue – XT series offer a ski boot with a walk mode in various flex options Boot Liners These days many manufacturers offer ‘thermo-fit¹ liners as standard equipment. You may also want to consider a custom liner as these are heated and molded to your foot and boot for a perfect fit. They can make all the difference especially if you have trouble finding really comfortable ‘off-the-shelf’ boots. Zipfit liners are a great option for anyone seeking total customisation in fit and comfort. They will replace the original liner. Custom Footbeds Essential kit – to provide additional comfort and ski control. If you want to get footbeds made or a pair of new boots fitted then we suggest you visit somewhere like Profeet for a professional fitting. Don’t forget if you have footbeds in your downhill boots but need to rent touring boots then you can bring the footbeds with you and put them in the hire boots. Bindings For all ski touring trips ski touring bindings are essential. Fritschi and Marker both make excellent ski-touring bindings and you have a few different options to choose from. Many more people are seeing the advantage of the “pin” binding system now offered by a number of manufacturers as these are light and offer ever-improving security despite their minimalist looks!

It’s essential you have ski touring bindings on your skis. Although Pin bindings have been around since the Dynafit Low Tech bindings over 30 years ago since their patent expired the technology has advanced substantially. Salomon, with their Shift Binding, are at the forefront; they’re ‘multi norm compatible’ so fit a selection of boots and are lighter than most freeride bindings. Our lead guides are using the Shift binding this winter, so if you’d like to know more about them give Lockwoods a ring. Ski Poles We recommend telescopic poles. They must have wide powder baskets (4-5 inches/100-120mm diameter) otherwise you’ll be up to your armpits on the ascents. Go for an alloy rather than carbon poles which are lighter but have a nasty habit of snapping near the basket due to ski edge nicks. Rucksack For most ski tours especially multi-day hut-to-hut tours you will need a 35 - 40 litre rucksack . You might get away with a big 30 liter pack if you are an experienced ski tourer and know what to pack. Most people will find a 35-40 liter pack is a good size for touring. Key features of a good ski touring pack:

  • a method of attaching your skis in either an A-frame (one either side) or both together on a diagonal ski carriage
  • easy access into the main compartment without having to empty the sack to get something at the bottom
  • separate pocket for avalanche shovel, handle and probe
  • small top pocket for items like wallet, sunglassed/goggles etc; an ice axe loop
  • built-in rain cover and a secure method of attaching/stowing a ski helmet 
  • good hip/waist belt and adjustable shoulder straps

Ortovox Haute Route 40 rucksack will be a good choice for ski touring trips. 

Avalanche airbag rucksacks can be used for touring but they are heavy, adding somewhere between 5-8kg just for an empty pack plus canister. So unless you are sure you can carry it and fit all you need in, we do not recommend you use one. 

Over a long multiday tour, every gram of weight is important as you have to carry and move it yourself. Carrying a heavy pack will hinder and tire all but the most experienced and fit ski tourer.

  • Ski Skins – these are skins which, now made of artificial fabric, stick to the bottom of your skis and allow you to walk up hill. They must be cut to fit your skis exactly, so if you are bringing your own skis you must provide your own skins.
  • Ski Crampons (aka couteaux) - most ski touring bindings have ski crampons specifically designed for the binding. We always carry these just in case. Again if you are bringing your skis and touring bindings you must provide your own ski crampons. 
  • Ice Axe - general lightweight mountaineering / alpine pick. Ideally this needs to be short enough to fit in your pack.
  • Boot Crampons - ideally lightweight aluminum ones although steel crampons are required for more demanding tours
  • Climbing Harness - a simple lightweight harness. The key feature is that it should have fully adjustable leg loops for putting on over ski boots, crampons, etc.
  • Helmet - Some people choose to ski tour with a helmet, this is up to you. If you bring a Normal ski helmet they are heavy to carry. Many manufacturers now have lightweight ski touring helmets that work well.

The “Safety Trilogy” - required on all our ski tours and off-piste courses.

  • Avalanche Transceiver/Beacon
  • Snow shovel
  • Avalanche probe

We recommend Simple and intuitive ORTOVOX AVALANCHE RESCUE KIT 3+ 

Remember it is not enough just to carry this equipment; you have to know how to use it. 

How about joining one of our specialist avalanche courses – check out  www.mountaintracks.co.uk/activity/avalanche-training

  • Good pair of ski goggles with a lens for low light is essential in the event of snow and poor visibility
  • Good quality sunglasses with 100% UV protection
  • 35 – 40 liter rucksack
  • 1 – 1.5 Liter water bottle – we don’t recommend hydration systems (e.g. camelbak) in winter as they can freeze.
  • Food – bring some of your favorite hill nibbles (chocolate, energy bars)*
  • Suncream and lip salve
  • Camera with a large capacity memory card!
  • Money – most hotels, shops and restaurants accept credit cards, but not all the alpine huts do. You should allow about 30-40 Swiss Francs or 20-30 Euros per day for lunch and drinks (amount approximate and depends on consumption)
  • Lightweight sleeping bag liner – now compulsory in most huts.
  • Wash kit with small personal first aid items – should include:
  • Toothbrush and paste - a mini one is ideal
  • Anti-bacterial hand cleaner
  • Wet wipes – essential to try to maintain hygiene
  • Tissues and toilet roll
  • Plasters – of various sizes and possibly some adhesive wound dressings.
  • Pain Killers – aspirin or Paracetamol/Nurofen
  • Antiseptic cream or wipes
  • Blister kit – compeed and elastic tape to hold it in place (essential)!
  • (Note: Guides will have comprehensive first aid kits and are qualified in mountain first aid)
  • Small light quick dry towel e.g. a Lifeventure Soft fiber towel
  • Most huts have limited washing facilities
  • Earplugs – it can get quite noisy!
  • Headtorch - lightweight and carry spare batteries.
  • Book, pack of cards and or Ipod/MP3 player – It’s nice to have something to read or listen to when you are in the huts or to challenge your fellow travelers to a game of card. These items are not essential but if you have space you might appreciate them.

Food and Water We suggest you bring with you or buy in resort snack food that you can take out on the hill with you each day. Things like cereal bars, dried fruit and nuts, chocolate, sugary sweets or your favorite hill snacks. When you’re staying overnight in huts its best to take supplies for the days you are away. Huts do sell food but it’s expensive and sometimes stocks run low. If you have any food allergies or dietary requirements especially if you are a Coeliac (Gluten free) or have a dairy allergy we strongly recommend you bring some food with you that you can supplement your dinners with. The huts are fairly good at providing for vegetarians but less so for other dietary needs. You have to buy bottled water in the huts as usually any running water is non-potable. Bottled water is expensive in French and Swiss huts; you can be paying upto 12-16CHF per 1.5L bottle of water. So please ensure you budget for this cost.

  • Ski Touring - Hiring Most resorts have ski shops that hire ski equipment and we try to provide relevant contact details for all our courses and tours. Prices do change by resort/country, but here’s an approximate guide to hire costs for 6-days hire: Touring Skis plus skins and ski crampons €150-180 Touring boots €80-90  Boot Crampons €45-50 Ice Axe €30-40 Harness €20-30 Helmet €20-30 Transceiver/shovel/probe €75-80 Our guides also generally have additional sets of safety equipment (transceiver/shovel/probe) which they hire out to clients for €65 for 6 days hire. Must be booked in advance.

Vanoise.JPG

Vanoise National Park

Map of vanoise national park.

It is a condition of booking that you are insured for your chosen activity and the cover must include medical expenses, personal accident, personal liability, third party risks and rescue (including helicopter rescue). You are strongly advised also to take out cover against cancellation and curtailment.

For UK residents Ski Club Travel Insurance may be a suitable option.

For more details and to purchase a policy online visit http://www.skiclubinsurance.co.uk/ If you need assistance arranging your personal insurance please let us know.  

The nearest airports are Geneva and Lyon (both 3 hour transfer times). For transfers to Bride Les Bains from the airport we recommend using Bens Bus. For information on their transfers click on http://www.bensbus.co.uk/ski-transfer/brides-les-bains-ski-transfers/ The Eurostar train has a direct service to Moutiers from where you could get the local public bus or a taxi to Bride Les Bains.

From 2024, travellers heading into the Schengen Area under a British passport will be required to complete an Electronic Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) clearance before travelling

The ETIAS pre-clearance system is similar to systems already in place in the USA and Canada (the ESTA and eTA systems, respectively). It serves to enhance security by checking the details of those wishing to travel to the Schengen Area before they arrive.

All persons travelling under a British passport, or a passport of another country where entry is permitted into the Schengen Area without a visa, need to complete the ETIAS process. If you hold an EU or Schengen Area passport or hold a valid EU or Schengen Area visa, you do not need to complete the ETIAS process.

An ETIAS will cost a 7EUR processing fee, although this is waived for those under the age of 18 or over the age of 70. ETIASs will be valid for a period of three years from application, provided your passport remains valid during this period; a new passport will require a new ETIAS.

What will I be asked on the ETIAS application form?

As a pre-screening check, the ETIAS online application form will ask for basic personal details to establish your identity.

This will include:

  • Valid passport / Travel document information
  • Current address
  • Citizenship status
  • Preferred gender
  • Dual citizenship status
  • Email address
  • Telephone number
  • Date of birth
  • Final destination member state
  • Educational background
  • Occupational background

During the ETIAS application or appeal process, you may be asked about your:

  • Criminal history
  • Past incarceration
  • Felon status
  • Past European travel
  • Health history

How much does it cost to submit an ETIAS application form?

The ETIAS application process requires an application fee of 7 (EUR) euros. Payment is required to complete the application process. ETIAS will only accept electronic payments from your debit or credit card.

Once payment is completed, most applicants will receive approval within minutes. An approved ETIAS visa waiver will be valid for three consecutive years upon issuance.

Apply for ETIAS approval  to ensure you can include your favourite European destinations in your travel plans.

More information on the ETIAS system is still to be confirmed by ETIAS authorities, including when and how applications will be accepted. We have provided this handy FAQ on the ETIAS system to help you understand how to navigate the ETIAS system when it goes live. 

Useful links: https://www.skiclub.co.uk/etias-information

https://etias.com/

All our ski tours are led by our team of IFMGA Mountain Guides. The team is led by Olly Allen, Matt Dickinson and Nick Parks. 

You will spend the first and last nights in a hotel in Brides Les Bains and 5 nights in comfortable traditional mountain refuges where you are provided with substantial breakfasts and evening meals. 

  • 6 days ski touring with IFMGA Mountain Guides
  • Guided on a maximum 1:6 ratio
  • Wild and beautiful National Park

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Skills & Stamina

Skill level.

Off-Piste Coaching 

Our Introductory level is suitable for people who can ski red and black pistes in resorts without problems and you can deal with moguls and some ice. You will be new to off-piste skiing or maybe have dabbled a little on the sides of the piste or even attended a previous off-piste specific course. You would like to ski powder snow with confidence and learn to link turns off-piste in a variety of terrain as well as being able to control your speed and adjust your turn radius.

Ski Touring

Introductory level ski touring trips are appropriate for people looking for their first touring experience. The pace is relaxed and typically we skin for 2-4hrs per day so ascents are about 500 - 800m vertical. You need to be a reasonable off-piste skier (at our Off-Piste Development level), able to link controlled parallel turns in powder snow and ski through trees in control. You need to be prepared to hike short sections on foot carrying your skis on your rucksack (though you won’t need any specific mountaineering knowledge, so crampons and an ice axe are usually not required).

Off-Piste Coaching and Adventure  For our Intermediate graded off-piste ski courses and trips you will have at least a couple of weeks off-piste skiing experience and /or received some previous instructions on an off-piste specific course. You can link 10-12 turns together in reasonable control, speed and style, following the fall line in most conditions. If you’re looking to improve your technique in deeper snow and steeper slopes then our Off-Piste Coaching Development trips are for you. These are instructor-led courses.

If you want to get some miles under your skis then look at our Off-Piste Adventure Intermediate trips which are led by our team of Mountain Guides. On the Adventure courses you can expect to hike or ski tour short distances to get to better snow and terrain, although no  previous ski touring experience is required.

These tours will involve around 3-5hrs of skinning per day, achieving around 800 – 1000m of vertical ascent. We would expect you to be able skin to a pace of 300m of vertical ascent per hour. You need to be able to execute good uphill kick turns on steeper slopes and have some familiarity with use of crampons and ice axe. You need to be a reasonably strong off-piste skier able to deal with a variety of snow conditions (powder, crust, slush) and able to ski on steeper and narrower slopes with the requisite ability and confidence for exposed sections.

For our Advanced Off-Piste Coaching courses you should be an excellent piste skier and have many years experience of skiing off-piste. You should be able to ski off-piste in most conditions linking controlled parallel turns, ski bumpy terrain, trees, narrow gullies and enjoy pushing yourself to achieve new things. Your skiing should be reasonably fluid and autonomous i.e. you can already adapt your turn radius and speed to the terrain and snow conditions off-piste. This course will focus on the technical and tactical skills to ski steep terrain, jump turns and line choice as well as refreshing your avalanche skills and mountain safety. The mission is for your skiing to become more dynamic and reactive!

You are an experienced and confident off-piste skier able to handle most snow types and conditions, you can ski steep slopes (30 degrees+) and make short turns in gullies and ski through trees. These skills have been learned over a number of years of skiing off-piste with mountain guides or experienced groups of friends. You are happy to ski tour to access descents and better snow, so you will have previously used ski touring equipment and can do effective and safe uphill kick turns. You aspire to ski the best snow available and are happy to push yourself to reach the best snow and terrain.

Advanced-level tours are for experienced ski tourers who’ve previously completed another hut-to-hut trip or multiple day tours. A large proportion of the terrain may be steep and exposed; thus confidence in your uphill kick turns on 35+ degree slopes is a must, as is your ability to ski slopes of 40 degrees. You will be a strong, fluid off-piste skier able to handle all conditions. You will be confident of using crampons and an ice axe and happy scrambling/climbing on snow and rock on short climbs to summits, and in gullies to gain a col.

You can ski fluidly and autonomously on all terrain. You often ski couloirs and gullies and seek out steep slopes and you can jump turn in narrow couloirs and have experience of abseiling and sideslipping on steep terrain. You can ski fast with fluid ‘freeride’ style turns and can jump off small rocks and ski trees with no fear or problems. You are happy to ski tour and hike to reach the best snow and terrain and you should have some basic knowledge of using crampons and ice axe. Your aims are to push your skills and challenge yourself further.

Expert level ski tours are pure ski mountaineering journeys in the high mountains. You must be confident skiing steep exposed terrain and ski touring for at least 5 hours per day with long ascents. You will be expected to climb on your feet carrying your skis on your pack to summit mountains above 4000m in altitude. You must be completely confident with your crampon placement and use of an ice axe and you will have some basic rope skills and be happy walking along exposed ridges on mixed terrain to gain the summits of peaks.

Stamina Level

  • Level 1 You are fit enough to ski all day with only short stops for food and drink. You can ski off-piste all day without being too tired at the end of the day; you can ski in this way for multiple days on your holiday. You can also hike or ski tour for around 2 hours per day. You’re used to doing cardiovascular exercise 3 to 4 times a week (bike, run, gym) to maintain your fitness, and you’re able to push yourself if needed for short periods of time at a higher rate than usual.

You can ski all day comfortably off-piste with only short stops for food and drink, you can do this for multiple days on your holiday. If necessary you can ski tour for around 1-2 hrs up hill plus your happy to do a few short hikes to access good snow with your skis on your shoulder or rucksack. Your stamina and endurance fitness is good and you work hard to maintain a good level of fitness. You will be exercising 3-4 times a week and also at the weekend; thus running a half marathon, doing a 50 mile cycle ride, 3-4 hours on a mountain bike or a full day’s hill walk would all prove possible with this stamina level.

You can ski all day comfortably and will be expected to ascend on skis at around 400m/hr and be able to skin for at least 5hrs with up to 1000m to 1300m of ascent per day. Your stamina and endurance fitness is good and you work hard to maintain a good level of fitness. You will be exercising 3-4 times a week and also at the weekend; thus running a half marathon, doing a 50 mile cycle ride, 3-4 hours on a mountain bike or a full day’s hill walk would all prove possible with this stamina level.

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MrZen

IFMGA / UIAGM / IVBV

The IFMGA / UIAGM / IVBV symbol is the logo of the International Federation of Mountain Guides Association.

Nick, Olly and Matt are all fully-qualified UIAGM Mountain Guides and members of the British Mountain Guides Association.

The International Ski Instructors Association is the world body for professional ski instructors.

The ISIA was formed in 1971 and there are currently 39 member nations representing the very best in ski instruction around the world.

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Happiness Promise

There are hundreds of thousands of guides and tour operators around the world. Figuring out who to trust is stressful and hard.

That’s why we started 10Adventures Tours, we’re here to make it easy to find a great guide or tour operator. We handpick the best local guides and tour operators for 10Adventures, working to ensure you have great guides and a great trip.

We know it sucks to show up in a different country and find out the tents are junk, the guide incompetent or the route different from what we thought we were getting.

We want to give our users peace of mind that you’ll have a great trip and offer a guarantee that we will work with you to make it right.

How does this work? Well, if you feel that something about your trip didn’t’ meet your expectations, let us know. We will then work to gather the details and figure out where things went wrong. If something indeed wasn’t as described, or went wrong with your trip, and the problem was within the control of either oursleves, the guide or the tour company, we will then work out a refund with you that’s proportional to the scale of the problem.

Obviously the best way to make a great trip is to tell your local guide or tour operator and give them the chance to fix the solution while you are on your trip. Most things can be solved by telling your guide when the issue develops. If that doesn’t solve it, then email us right away. Please don’t wait to voice your concerns until the trip is over, as it’s much harder to solve issues after the fact.

We work hard to make sure you have a great trip. If something isn’t right, please email  [email protected]  and we will get to work right away.

Vanoise Loop

Chat with us on our contact page or fill out the form below!

Discover the beauty of the Vanoise National Park on this 8-day self-guided trek

French Vanoise Alps

Take the first step towards a private travel experience, customized just for you.

About this tour:

What travellers are saying about 10Adventures

Jennifer W.

Vanoise Loop Tour Details

Overview for vanoise loop.

The 8-day self-guided Vanoise Loop, in short, is the trek of a lifetime! Starting in the French commune of Pralognan la Vanoise in Savoie, you’ll embark on a remarkable hut-to-hut trek through Vanoise National Park. Climbing thrilling passes to take in remarkable panoramas, you’ll stand in awe of glacial domes and alpine lakes. Ascend Petit Mont Blanc (2,680m) and gaze out towards the snow-capped peaks of Vanoise and the Grande Casse. Explore the ancient fortifications of the La Turra ruins (2,360m) as fascinating history weaves its way into your trekking experience.

Each night you’ll rest your head in cozy, rustic mountain huts filled with authentic character and charm—a true alpine trekking experience! If you’re looking for challenging trekking through one of France’s most beautiful landscapes, the Vanoise Loop is the adventure for you!

Itinerary for Vanoise Loop

Arrival in pralognan la vanoise.

Arrive in the alpine ski resort town of Pralognan la Vanoise where your tour begins. Soak up the atmosphere of this authentic ski town before setting down for the night in your comfortable hotel.

Trek to Col de la Vanoise Hut

Rise, ready to take on the alps as you first take a bus transfer to the Plan du Lac refuge (2,364 m), in the heart of the Vanoise National Park. From the refuge, climb to the Lanserlia pass (2,774 m). Magnificent panoramas of the Dent Parrachée (3,697 m) and the glacial domes of the Vanoise. Press on to reach the tip of Lanserlia (2,909 m), then descend by the same route or by the wild valley of the Grand Vallon. Finally, return to the Plan du Lac refuge for the night where you’ll enjoy some much needed rest.

Walk along the legendary GR5 Route

Today’s beautiful route has you following the famous GR5 which leads high up in the valley of the Leisse. At the Croé-Vie bridge (2,099 m), the path branches off towards the Col de la Vanoise (2,517 m). The path along the lakes offers magnificent landscape contrasts and flourishing flora. You pass near the Col de la Vanoise refuge (2,516 m), then you begin the descent to Pralognan-la-Vanoise.

Ascend Petit Mont Blanc

Today is dedicated to the thrilling ascent of the Petit Mont Blanc (2,680 m), an exceptional belvedere over the glacial domes of the Vanoise and the Grande Casse. It owes its name to the white gypsum of its rounded top. Later, enjoy dinner and an overnight night at the Repoju refuge (1,720 m).

Trek to Orgère Hut

Climb up the Chavière Valley this morning to reach the Péclet-Polset refuge (2,474 m). Then you reach the Col de Chavière (2,796 m), a small indentation in the ridge between the Péclet-Polset area and the Pointe de l'Echelle, glacial peaks. Descend to the Orgère refuge, today’s welcomed destination (1,935 m).

Col du Barbier

Another magical day awaits as you enjoy a beautiful balcony crossing above the Maurienne via the Col du Barbier (2,285 m), under the Aussois rake (3,124 m). Here, you’ll enjoy beautiful panoramas of the peaks bordering Italy. Dig deep, and continue to the Dent Parrachée refuge (2,517 m).

The last stage of your trek has arrived, completing the tour of the Vanoise glaciers. Set off for a balcony hike from the Dent Parrachée refuge to the Plan Sec refuge (2,316 m), then to the ruins of La Turra (2,360 m) and the Croix de la Loza (2,377 m). Finally, you reach Montafia (2,180 m), the starting point of the final descent to Termignon (1,287 m).  Transfer back to Pralognan la Vanoise for your final night of the tour.

This morning following breakfast your trekking tour in the Vanoise National Park comes to an end. Pack up and check out for departure.

Tour Highlights

Highlights for vanoise loop.

Enjoy incredible trekking in Vanoise National Park and put yourself to the test as you navigate lofty ridges and passes.

Admire the glacial domes of the Vanoise and the Grande Casse as you stand in awe of their size and beauty.

Trek wild valleys and reach phenomenal heights as you trek from one cozy mountain hut to the next.

Explore the ruins of Fort de la Turra, an abandoned high mountain fort featuring fascinating fortifications.

What's Included

What's included for vanoise loop.

7 breakfasts and 5 dinners are included.

Accommodations

Accommodations for 7 nights are included.

Transportation during the Tour

This tour includes luggage transfers, however, personal transfers are not included and you will be in charge of organizing your own logistics, such as getting to the start of the tour. You can also exclude luggage transfers from your tour package to lower the price.

Also Included

  • The roadbook (1 per 4 travellers)
  • Support hotline 24/7
  • Access to mobile application for GPS guidance

Not included

  • Lunches and any other meals not mentioned as ‘included’
  • Showers in mountain huts
  • Guide services
  • Anything not mentioned as ‘included’

Optional Extras

  • Extra night in Pralognan la Vanoise before or after the tour

Dates & Prices

Dates and prices for vanoise loop.

The pricing for this self-guided tour in French Alps depends on the size of your group. You also have an option to opt out of luggage transfers to reduce the tour price. All the prices below are per person sharing a double or a triple room where possible (note only dormitory rooms are available in huts) and those who need single rooms will have to pay a supplement.

Self-guided Vanoise Loop Tour Price without Luggage Transfers

Enjoy a private self-guided tour for your group only:

  • Groups of 2-3: $850 USD per person
  • Groups of 4+: $825 USD per person

Self-guided Vanoise Loop Tour Price with Luggage Transfers included in the price

Enjoy a private self-guided tour for your group only with luggage transfers included in the tour package:

  • Groups of 2: $1,475 USD per person
  • Groups of 3: $1,250 USD per person
  • Groups of 4: $1,095 USD per person
  • Groups of 5: $1,025 USD per person
  • Groups of 6+: $975 USD per person

Accommodation

Accommodation for vanoise loop.

This tour is based in mountain huts and hotels. Hotels on this trip are 2 and offer modern conveniences that can make this trip more pleasant. The accommodation in mountain huts is based in shared dormitory rooms. In some cases, the accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other comparable accommodations.

Single Rooms and Solo Travelers Rooms in the hotel are double and those willing to stay in a single room will have to pay a supplement (please enquire about the pricing). Please note that the single accommodations are not available in dormitory-style mountain huts, where all of the living spaces are shared with other trekkers.

Hotel in Pralognan la Vanoise

Enjoy this comfortable hotel stay in the lively ski resort town of Pralognan la Vanoise where there is plenty to see and do.

Dormitory accommodation in Col de la Vanoise Hut

Nestled between peaks, lakes, and valleys, this cozy hut is the quintessential alpine experience.

Dormitory accommodation in Arpont Hut

Rise to stunning views at the rustic Arpont hut.

Dormitory accommodation in Dent Parachée Hut

This traditional French mountain hut will welcome you with open arms and grant you a great night’s sleep in the mountains.

Dormitory accommodation in Orgère Hut

Tucked in the heart of the Orgère Valley, this comfortable mountain hut will have you feeling right at home in Savoie.

Dormitory accommodation in Peclet Polset

Enjoy your stay at this unique mountain refuge located at an altitude of 2,474m.

Hotels on Standard Tour

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Tour Booking Process

Booking process for vanoise loop.

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Frequently asked questions for Vanoise Loop

How hard is the Vanoise Loop Tour?

We rate this tour as a 4 / 5. The distances are moderate; however, the elevation gain is significant, and this tour is not recommended for beginners.

Do I need a visa to travel to Italy?

Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website , though you should verify with your government.

Are meals included on the Vanoise Loop Tour?

Do I need insurance?

Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip, and your insurance should cover (activity). Get your Travel Insurance .

How do I get to Pralognan la Vanoise to start this tour?

The two major airports near Vanoise are Geneva (GVA) and Lyon (LYS). They both take about two to three hours to get to the Vanoise region in the summer. There are a few train and/or bus transfers to get into the park from either Lyon or Geneva and we recommend renting a car. The closest airport would be Chambéry Airport (CMF), which has much more limited service. In addition, it is sometimes challenging to find cheap transfers from this airport.

Is the Vanoise Loop Tour in English?

This tour is not guided, however, you’ll get all the necessary information provided to you in English.

Where does the Vanoise Loop Tour end?

The tour ends where it starts, in Pralognan la Vanoise.

Do I need special vaccines to travel to Italy?

Check with your family doctor.

Are there any travel restrictions for Italy?

Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.

Tour Difficulty

Difficulty for vanoise loop.

Read about our scale for Tour Difficulty Ratings.

This tour was made for you!

Start filling out your booking details. Once you submit your request, we'll review availability for this tour and contact you within 24 hours to further customize your perfect adventure.

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Montagne Expédition is part of Altai Travel: the community of travellers, local experts & populations that promotes positive and sustainable tourism where each actor is enriched by contact with others. In more than 25 destinations, our local experts build experiences with our travellers where freedom, nature, encounters and pleasure are the key words.

Haute Route ski touring in Vanoise

Haute Route ski touring in Vanoise

Entirely located in savoie, the vanoise massif is renowned for its huge glaciers making it a destination not to miss both in winter and summer. , day 1 gébroulaz pass - peclet-polset refuge.

We meet our guide early in the morning in Chamonix before leaving in a minibus to the Moutiers station from where we take the bus in direction of the Val Thorens ski resort. From there, we join the Thorens pass using chairlifts. We will dominate the Maurienne : the Aiguilles de Peclet (3564m) and de Polset (3528m) will contemplate us, and we'll follow the path in their direction. The passage at the Gébroulaz pass, between both peaks, is particularly incredible : we are between Tarentaise and Maurienne. We then toggle on the Gébroulaz glacier and the curves leads us to the Lac Blanc and finally to the Peclet-Polset refuge, where we'll spend the night.

Positive difference in altitude : around 450m | Negative difference in altitude : around 1050m | Accommodation : Peclet Polset refuge

Day 2 Aussois pass - Parrachée refuge

Today we leave to join the Rosoire slopes in front of us, leading us afterwards to the Aussois pass. We can climb a little more after that to reach the Observatory Peak at 3012m. Then comes the descent in the Fond d'Aussois valley until the refuge which has the same name. We'll have to put our skins back on for a few meters before reaching the Dent Parrachée refuge.

Positive difference in altitude : around 880 | Negative difference in altitude : around 800m | Accommodation : Dent Parrachée refuge

Day 3 Labby pass - Arpont refuge

Under the Dent Parrachée overcoming us, we'll start our day slowly climbing up the slopes of the Labby glacier until the pass at 3330m. Once more, we'll toggle on a valley that we must discover : the Mahure glacier is splendid, we'll have some fun making the most beautiful curves. Then, we'll cross the valley to join the Arpont glacier and the refuge with the same name.

Positive difference in altitude : around 850m | Negative difference in altitude : around 1050m | Accommodation : Arpont refuge

Day 4 Chasseforêt Dome - Col de la Vanoise refuge

Today is a big day on the domes, the most intense of our trip ! After climbing up on the Arpont glacier, we'll arrive to the Chasseforêt pass at 3507m : a few meters left and we will reach the top at 3586m ! Between passes and domes, it is a succession of breathtaking panoramas and curves in the powdery and glistening white snow for a lot of sensations on a big descent, before reaching the Col de la Vanoise refuge.

Positive difference in altitude : around 1400m | Negative difference in altitude : around 1200m | Accommodation : Col de la Vanoise refuge

Day 5 Grand Casse pass - Champagny

Last day but not the least, we'll climb up the Grande Casse glacier, finishing on a really steep slope before arriving to the pass at 3091m : the landscape is incredible as we are under the Grande casse. We then start descending to Champagny, from where we'll hop back on the bus to rejoin Moutiers. A final minibus transfer to Chamonix, where we'll say goodbye !

Positive difference in altitude : around 650m | Negative difference in altitude : around 1600m

Dates & prices

Departures for french-speaking groups:.

No departure for now

Trip code: SRVANO

  • The technical organisation of the trip
  • A high mountain guide's supervision
  • Accommodation in refuges full-board 
  • Planned transfers
  • Picnics 

Not included

  • Individual transportation assured by your personal vehicle
  • Individual technical equipment 
  • Skiing personal equipment
  • Safety equipment 
  • Transfers to the meeting and dispersion points
  • Registration fees
  • Drinks & personal expenses 
  • Snacks (cereal bars, dried fruits, chocolate bars, etc.) according to your own convenience
  • Insurance & assistance: cancellation, research and rescue by  helicopter in high mountain (in France, Italy and Switzerland) hospitalization and repatriation
  • Everything that isn't mentioned in the "included" section

International flights

Terms and conditions, subscription, invoice procedure, cancellation policy.

  • More than 30 days before departure, you will be charged for the amount of 50€
  • From 30 to 21 days before departure, you will be charged for the amount of the deposit (30% of the trip’s price)
  • From 20 to 14 days before departure,  you will be charged for 50% of the trip’s price
  • From 13 to 7 days before departure,  you will be charged for 75% of the trip’s priceLess than 7 days before departure,  you will be charged for the whole trip’s price 
  • Airline fixed costs: plane tickets are bought in advance to avoid too high airline prices, however they are non refundable in case of cancellation or plan changes. In that case, the charges above apply to the price of your trip without the plane ticket’s price
  • Ground fixed costs: you will be charged for the fees that were paid early
  • Insurance fees: Insurance fees will not be refunded if you have subscribed to a multi-risk or cancellation insurance. The specific conditions will be written on your subscription confirmationIf you have no choice but to cancel your trip before departure, you must inform Montagne Expeditions and your insurance provider with a written statement as soon as possible, you will get a receipt. 

Changes to travel contract

Contract transfer, practical info.

  • Lunch picnics
  • Diners : meals prepared by shelter keepers
  • Take some race food according to your own tastes (cereals bars, chocolate bars, dry fruits,…).
  • Water is not for free in refuges (from 5 to 8 euros one bottle). We advise you to bring some water purification tablets (Aquatabs or Micropur) in order to drink tap water. 
  • Personal drinks are not included in the trip's price
  • Bring cash for coffees, fruit juices, coke or beers during breaks… Shelters usually don’t accept bank card payments and Euros.

Accommodation

  • Every refuges of this itinerary are comfortable and warm. Dormitories are equipped with blankets for the night (plan to bring your personal bed sheet for hygiene reasons). 
  • Slippers are at your disposal : no need to bring trainers. 
  • We advise you to bring protection against noise (ear plugs).
  • A few electrical plugs are available in refuges, but plan to bring an external battery to charge your camera and switch off your phone during the day. 

Transportation

Budget & exchange, supplied equipment.

  • Collective equipment (ropes)
  • Slippers and blankets while in refuges
  • Individual safety equipment (beacon, probe and shovel) : thank you for letting us know if you have your own

Vital equipment

  • 1 pair of ski touring skis, light and with adapted fixations as well as a break or safety strips, and sharpened
  • 1 pair of ski touring shoes with VIBRAM soles
  • 1 pair of adhesive seals skin adapted to your skis
  • Knifes adapted to fixations
  • Poles with large disks
  • Safety equipment : beacon, probe and shovel
  • crampons with "Antibott" system
  • Harness and carabineers
  • Survival blanket
  • 1 headlamp with extra batteries and bulb
  • Pocket knife
  • Windstopper bonnet
  • Sunscreen (high protection) for skin and lips
  • Sunglasses for glacier category 4 + ski goggles 
  • 2 technical breathable long sleeve underwear type "Carline" (no coton which dries too slowly)
  • 1 technical and breathable shirt to put under your jumper
  • 1 thick fleece jacket
  • 1 fuzz jacket
  • 1 wind stopper and waterproof jacket type Goretex
  • 1 pair of wind stopper mittens (fleece or wool) 
  • 1 pair of undergloves
  • 1 technical and breathable pair of tights type "Carline"
  • 1 pair of comfortable mountain trousers
  • 1 pair of wind stopper and waterproof trousers type Goretex
  • 2 pairs of socks : 1 thin and 1 thick
  • 1 bed sheet for refuges
  • 1 small toiletry bag with 1 fast drying towel
  • Cream for sunburns (Biafine)
  • Biodegradable toilet paper
  • 1 or 2 100L plastic bags and an overbag to protect your belongings and your bag
  • 1 waterproof pouch in which you will put your identity paper, your phone, your money and your insurance/assistance contract with all of your emergency numbers
  • A comfortable 40L backpack with straps for your skis
  • A second bag which will stay at the hotel with your changing clothes
  • Personal medicine
  • Pain reliever (preferably paracetamol)
  • Double skin
  • Elastoplast
  • Local disinfectant
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Antispasmodic
  • Anti-diarrheal
  • Anti-vomiting
  • Intestinal antiseptic
  • Light sleeping pills
  • Broad spectrum antibiotic
  • Vitamins C 
  • Up to 90 days visit in France : citizens from most countries do not need a visa to visit France.
  • Over 90 days visit in France : non-EU or non-EFTA citizens must have a visa to visit France over 90 days.

Identity card

Mandatory vaccines, health information & recommendations, electricity, sustainable tourism.

  • Most of our accommodations are run by locals, thus ensuring that the largest part of the revenue generated through your trip will stay within the region.
  • France is known for its exquisite cuisine. The art of cooking and the joy of eating are part of everyday life. Each region has its particular foods and flavors which we would like you to explore and appreciate.
  • Water is a precious and rare good. Our team and those travelling with us are thus advised to use it with consideration and avoid excessive water use where possible.
  • Please try to recycle your waste whenever possible, even though recycling may not be a well-known concept in all areas.
  • Be cautious and respectful when hiking. Make sure to wear suitable footwear and avoid picking flowers, moving stones or lighting fires.  

Christophe

My local agent Christophe

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A view of the lake at Tignes, on Stage 8, which mountains in background, a small hut, flowers and some people walking, on a sunny day

Tour of the Vanoise: A guide to the trek

The Vanoise National Park - the first National Park to be established in France - sits in the South East of the country and borders Northern Italy. With over 300 peaks above 3000m, the scenery is bold and encompasses glaciers, rolling grassy meadows and glacial lakes, a true Alpine gem yet still relatively unknown. Our Tour of The Vanoise is mostly a hut-to-hut trek, staying high with unrivalled views of the various massifs in the region, including the Mont Blanc massif. We visit tiny hamlets and pass isolated farmsteads, as well as dropping into the buzzing resort of Val d’Isere and the quintessential Alpine village of Pralognan-la-Vanoise.

This is a tough one! The boldest stages of the Tour of the Vanoise cross the mountains from Val d‘Isère and Tignes towards Pralognan, with stage 8 and 9 often being a favourite as you walk into the heart of the Vanoise National Park. Here is the Lac des Vaches (cows), one of the better-known spots in the whole of the Alps with stepping stones over the water and peaks above. We also love the hut-to-hut stages between the charming Refuge Plan Sec to Refuge Plan Lac offering spectacular glacier views throughout the two days.

Nicky Mount at Alpine Exploratory

Is it for me?

When to go.

Our season on the Tour of the Vanoise follows our normal Alpine walking season of mid-July to mid-September. Typically this lets us stick to high Summer weather, avoiding the late snow-melt that is possible some years and hard to predict. We recommend booking your trip in July or August as September sees a quieter atmosphere in the towns as many restaurants start in close for the shoulder season.

vanoise ski tour

Where to stay

A joy of the Vanoise is the series of huts in which we are able to stay. These are French huts away from the hustle and bustle of the Tour du Mont Blanc, which allows for a more gentle and homely style of welcome and food. Pastoral and mountainous France means simple pleasures of wooden building and furnishing, then combinations of eggs, cheese, ham and potatoes (think tartiflette and reblochon cheese).

Initially the huts run above the Maurienne valley as we traverse high above Modane. The trail crosses the Col de l’Iseran and we drop to Val d’Isère for a night. Here the Winter trade is strong with skiers and it means several smart hotels for Summer use; Val d'Isere will be an enjoyable night. In a lower-key way, Pralognan is good for hotels and restaurants, and then we cross the final col near which is the modern Refuge de Péclet-Polset. This pattern of huts and hotels gives a good pattern to our route.

City breaks after trekking

vanoise ski tour

Here's a brief guide to the places and experiences on the TVA, on our normal 11-stage schedule.

Stage One The first day starts in the French town of Modane. Find your mountain legs with a sustained climb out of the valley and into the mountains proper. The day is short so you have plenty of time to relax and enjoy the walking. Most of the ascent is in trees; however, your hard work is rewarded by the views which open up as you ascend. Once at the top, there is a real mountain feel and a fantastic taste of what’s to come!

Stage Two A climb through trees leads to a traverse across open hillsides, and the best distant views so far. Having sighted the day’s destination across the valley, the second half of the day involves a circuit high above two lakes to reach the hut. Enjoy the views from the Refuge de Plan Sec at the end of the day, perched high on the hillside.

Stage Three A day of gentle ups and downs, and long traverses across the hillsides. Today’s stage makes significant progress around the National Park with views ahead, behind, above, below and out across the valley. The second half of the day sees rougher country, until the final combe with the Refuge at the far side. In hot weather you may be treated to waterfalls above the streams before arriving at the refuge for the night.

Stage Four Another day of stupendous views, possibly better than the previous stage. Rough and rocky terrain gives way to grassier combes and glacial valleys. The day’s destination can be seen for much of the first half, but the route takes a long loop around the head of the Doron gorge.

Stage Five Firstly, the route completes the foray into the mountains around the Doron gorge, with fantastic views back to the previous stages. After Crête de la Turra, we rejoin the l’Arc valley and continue East on a high-level traverse across the hillside. Another day of good tracks and paths, and ever-changing vistas.

Stage Six This stage gives a change of scene, as the route quickly drops to the River Arc for the first time since Modane. There follows an easy stroll along the valley bottom to the accompaniment of birdsong, waterfalls and just the occasional traffic. A day to encounter a bit more of the Alpine civilization than on the previous stages, and possibly some mid-walk refreshments in the charming village of Bessans.

Stage Seven An up and down day, going from the valley of the Arc, over the highest paved col in the Alps (Col de l'Iseran) down into the valley of the Isère: a change of valley and a change of character. The climb up is steep in places, but the descent is mostly well-graded. Enjoy the variety, and a night in the largest town to be visited by the Tour of the Vanoise, famous ski resort Val d'Isere.

Stage Eight A day of stark contrasts. This stage starts with the modern architecture of the ski centres of Val d’Isère, Tignes and Val Claret, and finishes in the wild beauty of the Vallon de la Leisse where the refuge’s buildings are the only ones within sight. Along the way are two places from which it is possible to see the Mont Blanc massif.

Stage Nine A day spent going from wild mountain scenery to a traditional small town typical of the Vanoise. The mountain views around the Col de la Vanoise are superb and it is a popular place to spot Chamois and Ibex, keep you eyes pealed! After a long descent, arrive at the genteel village of Pralognan which has all that's required without the modern architecture of the previous stage. We love Pralognan!

Stage Ten A relatively relaxed day today despite the height gain as most of the day is spent on good tracks and paths. The route traverses pretty countryside before climbing steadily up-valley and into the mountains with Pointe de l’Echelle in view ahead. The route feels wilder as you continue to climb to your home for the night; the futuristic refuge of Péclet-Polset.

Stage Eleven This stage traverses the Col de Chavière, the last and highest col on the Tour of the Vanoise, and also the highest col crossed by any of the GR routes. And a grand setting it is. The route up is over loose steep scree, but once up, the downhill is on good paths. Once beyond the col, it is downhill almost all the way to Modane. Congratulations on the Tour of the Vanoise!

vanoise ski tour

The TVA in context

The TVA compared to the Tour du Mont Blanc Compared to the Tour du Mont Blanc, also based in France at least at start and end, the Vanoise tour is more of a challenge. The stage lengths and ascents are roughly in the same range, and overall the tour is of similar length, but what makes the Vanoise area harder is the wilderness and drama of the settings. We are often further from civilisation. This might not matter on a given trip, but if it did matter then it would! Perhaps the Vanoise calls for greater experience and preparedness. Practically, there is greater use of huts on the Vanoise tour, and walkers might find fewer other people around them. Still, the general culture and the systems of the huts are the same enjoyable mix as on the French days of the TMB and we hope the Vanoise will appeal to TMB hikers who’d like to see more of the French Alps.

Comparing the TVA to our 5 big Alpine treks The Haute Route is substantially the toughest, suitable only for trekkers with particularly solid experience, balance and fitness.

The Via Alpina includes three rocky cols that approach the Haute Route's level of challenge, though the route as a whole is more forgiving. The same applies to the Adlerweg but in its case one col (the Eppzirlerscharte) stands above the rest as very difficult, and it can be skipped by descending and taking the train. The Adlerweg is notable for some long days on wide tracks.

The AV1 is more consistent in its difficulty but is especially demanding of good balance, with steep, rocky and wild situations calling for mountain experience.

The TMB is a superb all-rounder that mixes tough, solid mountain days with gentler ones, allowing trekkers to sample the harder terrain as at the Fenetre d'Arpette (a variant, shared with the Haute Route) while not requiring any extremes.

It's worth noting that each trek has different possible schedules, governing the physical difficulty, and on many days different variants affect the terrain difficulty.

Below we compare the stats one by one:

Lac Blanc on the Tour du Mont Blanc

Hike the Tour of the Vanoise with Alpine Exploratory

Alpine Exploratory offers a self-guided trip of 11 stages for the TVA. For shorter trips, with the remainder left for another holiday, we recommend the Northern section over 4 or 5 days, starting in Val d'Isere and walking via Pralognan to Modane. The Southern section of the trail is then 7 days from Modane to Val d'Isere. Please ask us for more details.

Our self-guided holidays give you what you need to complete the route under your own steam. We book your accommodation in a mix of rustic huts and comfy hotels and we give you our detailed routecards, the local maps, and lots of notes. Importantly we will advise on the ideal schedule and accommodation to suit your approach to the TVA. Our guided trips are similar but give you the benefit of an Alpine Exploratory leader to show the way.

Please ask us any time for more details. Please feel free to describe your walking experience and preferences, and we'll suggest which trek you might enjoy most.

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Trek with us in the Alps, Scandinavia, UK or Ireland. Go self-guided or join a guided trip.

We research and interpret the trail to give you the finest walking holiday.

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We are used to say that here, you are born with skis on your feet! A land of ski champions, the Val Cenis alpine ski area is the largest in the Haute Maurienne valley. Two cross-country area complete the winter offer.

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Explore the 125 km of pistes and modern facilities of the Val Cenis ski area in Savoie.

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Enjoy cross-country skiing at Val Cenis, perfect for lovers of sport and contemplation. Two Nordic ski areas in Savoie for your winter holiday.

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DÔMES DE LA VANOISE SKI TOUR

Ski the Vanoise glaciers between the Tarantais and Maurienne valleys

READY TO SKI ?

This tour is in the heart of the Vanoise National Park (Savoie), the first national park created in France in 1963. The park is adjacent to the Italian Gran Paradiso National Park, forming a large area originally dedicated to the protection of the Alpine ibex. The highlight of the week is the climb of the Dome de Polset at 3500 metres, accessed via the Gébroulaz glacier. The week will provide plenty of opportunities to explore the glaciers of the region.

• Summit the Dome de Chasseforet and Dome de Polset • Spend the week within the Vanoise National Park • Spot the Alpine ibex

GRADE : D2 : A2 : F2 see our grade coding here

This price includes :

• 6 days guided ski touring with a qualified UIAGM high mountain guide

• 7 nights accommodation

• All dinners, breakfasts & picnic lunches

• Transfer from/to Moutiers (Salins Brides-les-Bains) train station

• Lift passes

• Hire gear

BOOK NOW AT [email protected] or +33(0)5 62 92 81 52

Transfer from the train station of Moutiers - Salins - Brides-les-Bains to Pralognan-la-Vanoise (40 minutes). Meet with the guide in our accommodation there to check gear, have a briefing and discussion of the week’s conditions before heading off to dinner.

We depart directly from  Pralognan-la-Vanoise  and use the lifts to head up to the small Barmettes Refuge at 2000m. From here we climb up to the  Refuge du Col de la Vanoise at 2517m, and can do a warm up tour and a few turns, along with checking our avalanche safety equipment.

We head out towards the Col du Dard (3120m) which is followed by a short descent to the Col du Pelve (2950m) before our ascent of the Dome de Chasseforet at 3586m over parts of the Vanoise glaciers. A lovely descent follows to the Refuge de l’Arpont at 2310m with glorious views over the Maurienne Valley.

A new day and another ascent to the Labby Pass at 3328m. From here we continue to the  Refuge de la Dent Parrachée  at 2515m. We are now in the Maurienne valley.

A short ascent and short descent starts our day and we pass just next to the Refuge du Fond d’Aussois. From here we head up to the Aussois Pass (2916m) and we are then back in the Tarentaise Valley. Depending on how we are feeling we have a couple of different options to reach the Refuge de Péclet Polset  at 2450m.

With lightened packs we ascend the Dome de Polset (3326m) via the Glacier de Gébroulaz. A great descent follows to return to the refuge where we collect the remainder of our gear before descending further to the Refuge du Roc de la Pêche at 1903m, originally once shepherds huts during the summer.

Return to Pralognan via the Vallonnet Pass (2653m). A last north facing descent takes us to the cross country ski pistes from where we can find our way home.

Transfer back to the train station at Moutiers for onward transport.

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Val Thorens-Vanoise, a 4 day on « glaciers’ hut to hut ski-tour »

Vanoise is probably one of the wildest and most beautiful wilderness areas in Europe. This is a 4 day on glaciers’ hut to hut ski-tour To the ski tourers and mountaineers, it’s a remote paradise!

Four days of intensive and highly rewarding ski-touring with big ascents and ‘out-there’ descents, and nights in some of the most stunning huts in the Alps like the refuge Col de la Vanoise at  the bottom of the huge highest peak called Grande Casse (alti 3852 m)!

This tour, ideal for experienced ski tourers and mountaineers, takes place in the heart of La Vanoise and makes us cross the glaciers of the crown of the Vanoise national park. This is a short hut to hut ski-tour, in which we will skin up and ski some high passes and big summits of the central Vanoise range, a traverse of the central Vanoise glaciers from Val Thorens-col de Gébroulaz pass, through Champagny, and back to Val Thorens through Chavière glacier opass.. We will ascend and ski down for example the summits of the Gébroulaz pass (col) and peak, the Réchasse peak, sometimes other peaks….

 We will also enjoy the pleasure of the big off-piste skiing in virgin and protected spaces.

 This ski-tour includes A LOT OF SKIING and is accessible to very experienced ski-touring skiers.  Need to be also compulsorily in good physical condition.

The key points of this week ski-tour

  • We will do a lot of skiing, § A drop in the heart of the massifs of Vanoise and Gran Paradiso (4061 m), several summits and glacier passes of more than 3 000 m.in middle of magnificent panoramas of glaciers.

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vanoise ski tour

Skilled skiers used to ski-touring & able to ski off piste everywhere with a rucksack, even in altitude

Need to be also compulsorily in good physical condition

To take advantage completely of your ski-tour, we recommend strongly to practise a sports activity developing the endurance:  walks of 20 km with minimum 400 m OR running for one hour x 2 or 3 times a week.

vanoise ski tour

5 to 7 participants /5 persons/ clients minimum per group

4 days/ 4 nights (or 7 days/ 6nights upon demand, even better with 7 days)

UIAGM mountain guide. Often guided by an UIAGM mountain guide of SAVOIE-Mont Blanc

March, April, until mid-MAY Dates : a tour every week from mid-Mars to mid-May,

770 euros per person (including half-board accommodation for a 6 day-5 night tour) with a minimum of 5 participants/clients per group

We will provide and lend you: DVA transceivers, shovels, pprobes, harnesses (and walking crampons for going down the ridge).

Our price includes only : guiding-ski coaching, the loan of collective safety gear like a DVA transceiver for each of you, an a shovel for every 2 persons, plus a probe.

Doesn’t include: skis and personal gear rental, the insurance (R.C. + rescue), the possible fares in taxis,Ski-passes (if any needed), and gear/skis rental at your own expenses

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We want to share with you the passion of snowy peaks and ski slopes 365 days a year!

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Home / Skiing and snowboarding / L'Espace Haute Maurienne Vanoise

L'Espace Haute Maurienne Vanoise

L'Espace Haute Maurienne Vanoise : 1 territory, 6 resorts, 350 km of downhill skiing, 200 km of cross-country skiing, 1 ski pass per resort for a day or a stay, or 1 annual ski pass to enjoy the lifts in summer and winter alike. A great recipe for satisfying your thirst for skiing and mountain adventures!

1 territory, 6 stations

The Espace Haute Maurienne Vanoise was born from the merger of the 6 resorts of Valfréjus, La Norma, Aussois, Val Cenis, Bessans and Bonneval sur Arc. It offers a vast and varied territory for downhill and cross-country skiing.

The 6 Espace Haute Maurienne Vanoise resorts complement each other to offer their visitors the widest possible choice of skiing, accommodation and services.

This area, with its 350 km of downhill skiing and 200 km of cross-country skiing, shares a single desire: to help you discover a preserved place dedicated to relaxation, rejuvenation and skiing.

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HMV_decouvrir-espace-haute-maurienne-vanoise-2

1 package = 1 max of advantages!

With the annual ski pass for each Espace Haute Maurienne Vanoise resort (Valfréjus, La Norma, Aussois, Val Cenis, Bessans and Bonneval sur Arc) or the holiday ski pass for one of the 6 resorts (6-day + ski pass), enjoy even more benefits!

HMV_decouvrir-espace-haute-maurienne-vanoise-3

Included with the annual package of each station:

  • Unlimited access to Espace Haute Maurienne Vanoise : Valfréjus, La Norma, Aussois, Val Cenis, Bessans, Bonneval sur Arc and unlimited access to Nordic areas (Aussois - Val Cenis Sardières, Val Cenis Bramans, Bessans).
  • 3 days of skiing offered in : - Crans-Montana (Switzerland) - Bardonecchia (Italy) - Pralognan la Vanoise (Savoie) - Montgenèvre (Hautes-Alpes)
  • Unlimited access to the ski lifts open in summer.
  • A book of advantages with free activities, discounts...

Annual ski passes are on sale at the lifts in each Espace Haute Maurienne Vanoise resort: Valfréjus , La Norma , Aussois , Val Cenis , Bessans , Bonneval sur Arc. If you buy your annual pass before autumn, you'll benefit from a 50% discount on the normal rate.

Shooting_Val_Cenis_2022_Credit_MatteoCHALLE

Resort stay package

Offered with the stay package of each resort:

  • 1 day's skiing in each of the other Espace Haute Maurienne Vanoise resorts: Valfréjus, La Norma, Aussois, Val Cenis, Bessans, Bonneval sur Arc.
  • Unlimited access to the Nordic areas (Aussois - Val Cenis Sardières, Val Cenis Bramans, Bessans)

Ski passes are on sale at the lifts in each Espace Haute Maurienne Vanoise resort: Valfréjus , La Norma , Aussois , Val Cenis , Bessans , Bonneval sur Arc .

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  1. Vanoise Ski Tour Holiday

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  2. Guide raid à ski de randonnée Traversée des glaciers de la Vanoise

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  3. Visiter le Parc National de la Vanoise : guide complet

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  4. Ski sur les dômes de la Vanoise

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  1. Vanoise Ski Tour Holiday

    The Vanoise Ski Tour makes a circuit of the largest National Park in the Alps and is well known for its abundant wildlife and excellent ski touring terrain, served by a comfortable network of huts. We make a circular tour of the massif, exploring wild valleys and high glacier terrain on this week long classic French ski tour. View full overview.

  2. Vanoise Ski Tour

    Go back to blog Vanoise Ski Tour Jun 10 2020 Early morning under the shadow of La Grande Casse. Coming up in April 2021 - a 5 day guided ski tour of the Vanoise National Park. Under the guise of our super Marmalade guide for the week - Andy Townsend - our intended ski tour travels the quiet and remote backcountry of the 3 Valleys ski area and deep into the Vanoise National Park.

  3. The Vanoise Circuit : France's Best Hut to Hut Ski Tour

    Moderate Ski Touring. Distance 8.9 km Ascent 1.2 km Descent 647 m Refuge de l'Arpont via the Col du Moine. A committing adventure in the heart of the Vanoise. Difficult Ski Touring. Distance 10 km Ascent 1.1 km Descent 1.3 km Refuge du Col de la Vanoise via the Col de Chasseforêt. An adventurous journey on high glaciated terrain. Difficult Ski ...

  4. Ski tour in the Vanoise Massif

    Ski touring Vanoise Haute Route. Duration: 5 days. Level: Price from: 1 085€. For more information, contact Pôle Ski : +33 (0)4 28 70 28 92. Information Request. General information.

  5. Vanoise Haute Route Ski Tour

    The Vanoise is probably one of the most beautiful areas of wilderness in Europe accessible to ski tourers. Six days of intensive and highly rewarding ski-mountaineering crammed with big ascents and 'out-there' descents plus at least one night in one of the most stunning huts in the Alps! This tour is the jewel in the crown of the Vanoise area and is ideal for experienced ski tourers and ...

  6. Crossing the Vanoise on Ski de Rando

    Ski touring through the Vanoise glaciers. See all photos. Itinerary. LOCATIONS & ACCESS. WHAT IS INCLUDED. GUIDE. photos. The Vanoise. Eco score: 5/5. 7 days | 6 nights. Level 3. Between the high valleys of the Maurienne and Tarentaise, the Vanoise National Park is surrounded by high mountains, with 107 peaks over 3,000 metres high and numerous ...

  7. The most beautiful ski tours in Vanoise

    Ski tours in Vanoise › Plan, track and save ski touring routes Avalanche report Digital TOPO maps Tour tips Test now!

  8. Alpine Mountain Guides

    Vanoise Ski Tour. The Vanoise are a National Park home to secluded villages, wildlife and large glaciers. ... The day involves around 1500m of ascent but often you get a good ski to a great hut. Day 5. Refuge de la Femma via the col de la Pierre Blanche. The descent to the Vallon de la Leisse is an intricate line and can be serious.

  9. 8-Day Self-Guided Vanoise Loop (Savoie, France)

    Arrive in the alpine ski resort town of Pralognan la Vanoise where your tour begins. Soak up the atmosphere of this authentic ski town before setting down for the night in your comfortable hotel. ... Self-guided Vanoise Loop Tour Price without Luggage Transfers. Enjoy a private self-guided tour for your group only: Groups of 2-3: $850 USD per ...

  10. Haute Route ski touring in Vanoise

    Haute Route ski touring in Vanoise; Haute Route ski touring in Vanoise. Entirely located in Savoie, the Vanoise massif is renowned for its huge glaciers making it a destination not to miss both in winter and summer. This large mountain set is located in Savoie, between the Tarentaise valley and the Maurienne valley. In the heart of this ...

  11. Ski touring

    Ski touring. Practice ski touring in Haute Maurienne Vanoise. Ski de rando" trails are open and marked on the way up in several resorts. Ideal to start and enjoy easily (the descent is done on "classic" and groomed slopes). For those who wish to go further and enjoy the wide open spaces offered by the mountain, before leaving the open and ...

  12. Refuge du Col de la Vanoise Ski Tour

    Refuge du Col de la Vanoise Ski Tour Espace Killy Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne Tignes and Val d'Isère Vanoise Massif. This multi-day tour takes you around the Grande Casse in spectacular scenery. Ski Touring Severe. Distance 21 km Ascent 1.7 km Descent 1.5 km Duration 1 day + Low Point 2.1 km High Point 3.1 km Gradient 30˚

  13. Tour of the Vanoise, Self-guided walking holiday

    Tour of the VanoiseSelf-guided walking holiday. Our Tour of the Vanoise trip is a spectacular high-level route in the French Alps, encompassing the main valleys and mountain passes of the Vanoise National Park. Our 11-stage trip follows the Tour des Glaciers de la Vanoise route in the South, as well as our additional Northern sections.

  14. Tour of the Vanoise: A guide to the trek

    Hike the Tour of the Vanoise with Alpine Exploratory. Alpine Exploratory offers a self-guided trip of 11 stages for the TVA. For shorter trips, with the remainder left for another holiday, we recommend the Northern section over 4 or 5 days, starting in Val d'Isere and walking via Pralognan to Modane.

  15. Vanoise Ski Tour

    ITINERARY. DAY 1. Transfer from the train station of Moutiers - Salins - Brides-les-Bains to Pralognan-la-Vanoise (40 mins). Transport can be organised from Geneva also. Meet with the guide in our accommodation there to check gear, have a briefing and discussion of the week's conditions before heading off to dinner. DAY 2.

  16. The most beautiful ski tours in the Vanoise Massif

    Ski tours in the Vanoise Massif › Plan, track and save ski touring routes Avalanche report Digital TOPO maps Tour tips Test now!

  17. Ski and board

    Home / Ski and board. Ski and board. We are used to say that here, you are born with skis on your feet! A land of ski champions, the Val Cenis alpine ski area is the largest in the Haute Maurienne valley. Two cross-country area complete the winter offer.

  18. Dômes De La Vanoise Ski Tour

    From here we climb up to the Refuge du Col de la Vanoise at 2517m, and can do a warm up tour and a few turns, along with checking our avalanche safety equipment. DAY 3 We head out towards the Col du Dard (3120m) which is followed by a short descent to the Col du Pelve (2950m) before our ascent of the Dome de Chasseforet at 3586m over parts of ...

  19. Traversée des Glaciers de la Vanoise

    This tour, ideal for experienced ski tourers and mountaineers, takes place in the heart of La Vanoise and makes us cross the glaciers of the crown of the Vanoise national park. This is a short hut to hut ski-tour, in which we will skin up and ski some high passes and big summits of the central Vanoise range, a traverse of the central Vanoise ...

  20. Refuge du Col de la Vanoise Ski Tour Outdoor map and Guide

    There aren't any consistently steep faces or couloirs to ski during this ski tour ... Refuge du Col de la Vanoise lies beneath the imposing Grands Couloirs of the Grande Casse to its north east and the expansive Glacier de la Vanoise to its south which gives the place a fantastic base if you wish to complete these ascents.

  21. Skiing and snowboarding

    Skiing and snowboarding. In winter, Haute Maurienne Vanoise is home to 6 ski resorts: Valfréjus, La Norma, Aussois, Val Cenis, Bessans, Bonneval sur Arc, 350 km of alpine ski trails and 200 km of Nordic ski trails. Easy skiing on the green and blue runs, speed and commitment on the red and black runs, freeride, ski touring, skating, classic ...

  22. Ski touring in the high mountains at Val-Cenis

    Lanslevillard 73480 Val-Cenis. See on the map. Tel : 04 79 05 80 97. 06 71 47 07 18. Website. Discover the high mountains on ski touring: surely the best way to discover the high mountains! Full-day or half-day. An original and educational excursion with technical, snow and safety instruction.

  23. The Espace Haute Maurienne Vanoise

    The Espace Haute Maurienne Vanoise. The Haute Maurienne Vanoise area: 1 territory, 6 resorts, 350 km of downhill skiing, 200 km of cross-country skiing, 1 day pass per resort or for a stay or 1 annual pass to enjoy the ski lifts in summer and winter. A great recipe for satisfying your thirst for skiing and mountain adventures!