The trip

LEVEL**

Elevation: +/- 400 m depending on the stages.
Walking time: 3 to 5 hours of hiking per day, depending on the group’s level.
Fitness level: This trip is accessible to everyone, even to hikers who have never used snowshoes.

A good overall fitness level is required. A few months before the trip, feel free to train: 2 to 3 hours of walking, swimming, cycling or jogging at least twice a week, will help you arrive in good shape and fully enjoy the snowshoe outings. You can take a rest day during the trip if needed.

SNOW CONDITIONS

With climate change in progress, we can no longer be sure of the presence and quality of snow in the mountains, even in the Northern Alps. However, the mountains in winter, even without snowshoes, are still a treasure trove to be discovered. When snowshoes can't be used due to lack of snow, mini-crampons are available to ensure that you can practise in complete safety.

GUIDING

Number in a group between 6 and 12 people supervised by a qualified professional winter mountain leader, specialist in snow and avalanches.

ACCOMMODATION

Accommodation in a charming small 3-star hotel in the center of Saint-Gervais-les-Bains. Double rooms with private bathrooms (triple rooms if the number is odd). Single rooms available with supplement, upon request.

MEALS

Breakfasts are served at the hotel, and dinners are taken in a restaurant in the center of Saint-Gervais-les-Bains. For lunch, we take a picnic, consisting of a hot soup and regional products.

MAPS

IGN Top 25 - 3531 ET Saint-Gervais-les-Bains et 3531 OT Megève

Practical information

ACCESS TO DEPARTURE POINT

Meeting on friday at 10am with your guide at the accommodation.

BY TRAIN
Outbound (Friday): Paris Gare de Lyon > Saint-Gervais-les-Bains (Gare du Fayet). Then, bus from Gare du Fayet > Saint-Gervais-les-Bains town center.
Return (Sunday): Bus from Saint-Gervais-les-Bains town center > Gare du Fayet, then train back.
Please check your journey with the SNCF.

BY CAR
A40 motorway to Sallanches/Passy, then exit 21 towards Saint-Gervais-les-Bains. Hotel in the centre of the village of Saint-Gervais-les-Bains (74)

The tour ends on Sunday around 4pm at the hotel.

ACCOMMODATION BEFORE AND AFTER

Extra night before or after your stay (based on a 2-person room): €83 in a B&B (subject to availability).
Saint-Gervais-les-Bains tourist office : +33 (0)4 50 47 76 08

TO CONTACT US

If you are late please contact the agency as soon as possible : +33 (0)4 50 79 09 16 or +33 (0)6 42 49 76 07

Equipment & luggage

EQUIPMENT LIST

The equipment for snowshoeing (snowshoes and poles) is provided. However, you are welcome to bring your own if you have it. The safety equipment (ARVA, shovel, probe) is also provided for the group.

Clothing

• Waterproof ski or winter walking trousers
• Wind stopper or Goretex jacket
• Breathable or merino wool t-shirts
• 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 and Camelback (1.5 litre minimum)
• Knife and spoon
• Cup(s) for soup and coffee
• Small First Aid kit (antihistamine, ibuprofen, Compeed type blister pads...)
• Survival blanket
• Identity card or passport
• Swimming costume, clean flip-flops suitable for aquatic areas and towel (for your shower before leaving the spa)

BACPACK

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, cup and cutlery for your picnic, sunscreen and your identity papers) and please keep a little room to carry a picnic and snacks.