Between Lake Geneva and the Mont Blanc is the multifaceted Chablais... A mountain range full of quiet valleys and small peaks. Far from the noise of ski lifts lies a perfect wilderness for snowshoeing, with a blank canvas of snow revealing the secrets of an abundant and vulnerable animal life. A historic valley with a rich artistic heritage seen in the beautiful chalets, churches and abbey. A culturally rich region where mountain traditions are still alive.
You will like
Snowshoe walks adapted for all in a mountainous region of great charm
The cultural approach of the Chablais region
The wildlife watching
A comfortable 3 star hotel with a great restaurant
Meet Sunday at 6:30pm at the Hôtel*** du Feraillon for a presentation and safety briefing with your mountain leader.
Snowshoeing in the Alps depends a lot on the weather and the snow conditions, especially considering the avalanche risk. This program can be changed during the week if the conditions demand it, for a matter of safety. The mountain leader makes the final decision about every hike and gives a briefing with the group every evening to present the next day's program.
Walking times and elevations given here are approximate, the guide will adjust the pace and the length of the hikes depending on the group.
Day 2
COL DE LA PLAGNE AND CHALETS D’AUTIGNY
From a spot known as Sauvage, climb to the Col de la Plagne at 1550m, then a loop route to the Chalet d’Autigny. The panorama from this point reveals the Mont Blanc to one side and Lake Geneva to the other. This area is also a hiding spot for chamois which can be easily observed with binoculars. Picnic lunch and an exercise in avalanche rescue using a transceiver, shovel and probe. 4.5 hour walk / Elevation: +/- 400m
Day 3
POINTE D’ARDENT (1959m)
At the heart of the Abondance valley, where the famous cheese is made, stand several peaks at 2000m. One of them is easily accessible on snowshoes. High mountain atmosphere perched over a charming valley. Turning around, the Mont Blanc appears through the Fenêtre d’Ardens. 6 hour walk / Elevation: +/- 500 to 700m (depending on the group and snow conditions)
Day 4
PAS DE LA BOSSE, LAND OF IBEX
From the Chalets de Chevennes climb to the Chalets de Mens then to the Pas de la Bosse, winter home for ibex. We will hopefully have the chance to observe discreetly the robustness of these animals and their daily struggle against the elements. 5 hour walk / Elevation: +/- 450m to 700m (depending on the group)
Day 5
CHALETS OF LENS AND HERITAGE OF THE ABONDANCE VALLEY Day hike to the Chalets de Lens and possibility to reach the Col de Bassachaux, on ancient smugglers routes. Here also is a haven for spotting many chamois. Picnic on arrival at the chalets and the descend into the valley. Possible visit of the old customs office a fabulous smugglers museum (*option not included in the price). 5 hour walk / Elevation: +/- 550m
Day 6
RIDGE OF LESCHAUX, BELVEDERE DES CORNETTES
Depart to the hamlet of Crébin under the Mont de Grange. After a quick climb to reach the ridge, the path follows a spectacular ridge path facing the mountains. Stop at the farm shop where they makes and sell the famous nutty tasting Abondance cheese. Return to the hotel around 3:00pm.
End point around 3:00pm at the hotel.
Possibility to visit the historic abbey of Abondance, classified as an historic monument.
This itinerary is susceptible to change depending on snow conditions and the possibility of unknown factors affecting the itinerary, including situations beyond our control which may change the route, timings etc.
Personalised tour available, contact us...
The trip
LEVEL ***
Elevation: +/- 400 to 700m approximately per day. Walking time: 4 to 6 hours per day depending on the group. Type of trek: this tour is not technically difficult and is open to all, no prior experience of snowshoeing necessary.
Same hotel all week that permits to have a rest day at any point.
GUIDING
Number in a group between 6 and 12 people supervised by a qualified professional winter mountain leader, specialist in snow and avalanches.
ACCOMMODATION
3* hotel: 5 nights in twin/double bedrooms
The Hotel is located near a small rural mountain village and family friendly ski resort. The hotel is known for its comfort and gastronomic cooking. Dinner is an opportunity to discover the varied menu and also sample local specialties: tartiflette, fondue, berthoud and diots. Comfortable ensuite bedrooms with television. The hotel has a very nice warm swimming pool, a spa with jacuzzi and a fitness room. www.hotelleferraillon.com
MEALS
Breakfast and dinner are provided at your hotel. Picnics are included and are carefully prepared daily by your mountain leader, comprising a warm hearty soup and a variety of local products.
MAPS
IGN Top 25 - 3528 ET Morzine
Practical information
ACCESS TO DEPARTURE POINT
BY TRAIN
Inbound : depart Gare de Lyon (Paris) at 9:11am arrive in Thonon at 1:49pm in Thonon-les-Bains. Then bus SAT Thonon > Abondance at 3:00pm.
Return : bus SAT at 2:15pm or transfer with Altitude Montblanc (12€/pers.). Depart train station of Thonon at 5:10pm, arrive Gare de Lyon (Paris) at 9:49pm. Times given are indicative and should be verified at a train station or at www.oui.sncf/www.sat-leman.com/horaires-des-lignes
BY CAR Take the A40 motorway to Annemasse, exit Thonon-Evian, follow signs for Thonon and then direction Morzine-Châtel. Follow direction Châtel and Abondance. Meet at the Hôtel Le Ferraillon, Richebourg, between Abondance and la Chapelle from 6pm. Parking next to the hotel (free, not guarded but safe).
If you are late please contact the agency as soon as possible on: +33 (0)4 50 79 09 16 or +33 (0)6 42 49 76 07
Equipment & luggage
EQUIPMENT LIST
Material for snowshoeing (snowshoes and poles) is provided. However, if you have your own equipment and would like to use it you are free to do so. Avalanche safety equipment is also provided (transceiver, shovel and probe).
Clothing
Waterproof ski or winter walking trousers
Wind stopper or Goretex jacket
Breathable or merino wool t-shirts
Breathable or merino wool leggings
Fleece or jumper
Insulating down jacket
2 pairs of ski gloves and a warm hat
Walking socks (1 pair per day)
Sturdy waterproof walking boots
Other Equipment
Rucksack minimum 35 litre capacity
Sunglasses and ski mask
Sun cream
Water bottle or Camelback (1.5 litre minimum)
Knife, fork and spoon
Plastic lunch box/plate for your picnic lunches
Plastic cup for coffee
Small First Aid kit (antihistamine, ibuprofen, Compeed type blister pads...)
Survival blanket
Identity card or passport
BACKPACK
Bring a comfortable backpack of 35 to 40 litres for your avalanche safety equipment (transceiver, shovel and probe), personal belongings for the day (warm clothes, water, plate and cutlery for your picnic, sunscreen and your identity papers) and please keep a little room to carry a picnic and snacks.
6 Days
Guided / with a guide
With baggage transportation
Hotel ***
Level ** 
From 995 €
Next departure on 09/02/25
