Snowshoeing at les Balcons du Queyras

For this snowshoeing stay in the heart of the Queyras, imagine for a moment a cozy hotel, a splendid panorama of snowy mountains, local hearty cuisine, in the quaint village of Saint-Veran, the highest village in Europe, in the exceptional setting of the Queyras Regional Natural Park.

From this hotel I will take you smoothly to meet the locals, wildlife and beautiful snowshoeing in Queyras Park.

With a minibus, I will lead you to discover several valleys of Queyras, to enjoy other landscapes, other sensations … I will share with you my knowledge of snow, local history, crafts, architecture of the massif… and I will teach you the basic techniques to enjoy this wonderful winter pastime, the snowshoeing!

To make the discovery of snowshoeing easier for you, I also organize this stay in shorter form in 4 days. You choose your arrival and departure dates according to your availability.

The highlights of this great program …

– Two options of stay: 7 days or 4 days (ask me the 4 data if you are interested);

– A comfortable stay in the highest town in Europe suitable for all budgets:double or quadruple room with shower and toilet.

– Accommodation in a comfortable, friendly, hotel and local cuisine made with local products.

– The discovery of the typical habitat and its ecomuseum.

– An introduction to snow studies and winter orientation

– A sauna in the hotel available …

This program lasts 7 days, as explained above, I can reduce it …

Day 1:

Meeting at 7:30PM at the ** hotel “Le Grand Tetras” in the village of Saint Veran

Day 2 : Les balcons de Saint-Véran: warm up and introduction to use the ARVA.

A beautiful balcony route between two charming hamlets of the valley of Aigues allows us to discover the pastures of the Gardiole (2200 m) and enjoy a beautiful view over the villages and mountains of the Queyras. This is an opportunity to learn to use a AVD (Avalanche Victim Detector).

– Positive vertical drop: 300 m, Negative vertical drop – 300 m

– Schedule: 4 hours walking

Day 3: La Monta (1660 m) – La Médille (1995 m): wildlife (chamois output)

We start softly with an almost flat course along a beautiful frozen torrent. Then we leave the valley and enter into the heart of the reserve. The observation of chamois, ibex sometimes, often closely enough, is almost certain! This superb belvedere offers a unique view of Mont Viso

– Positive vertical drop: 400 m, Negative vertical drop : 400m

– Schedule: 4 hours walking

Day 4 : Le Raux (1919 m) – Pont du Moulin (1849 m) : a summit, the Croix de Curlet (2301m)

From Raux, we reach the torrent of Aigue Blanche and by one of the most beautiful mixed forests of Swiss stone pine and larch of Queyras, we win the Croix de Curlet. A walk along the ridge offers a panoramic view of Saint-Veran and on summits of the border with Italy. We end our tour with a guided visit of the highest commune of Europe: typical habitat, sundials, wooden fountains… Images of traditional life here.

– Positive vertical drop : + 480 m, Negative vertical drop :- 480 m

– Schedule: 4:30hs walking

Day 5 : Arvieux (1550 m) – les Chalets de Clapeyto (2250 m) (Alpine chalets)

This hike takes place in the magnificent setting of Clapeyto where beauty rhymes with peace and serenity. We walk among small uplands and harmonious valleys before entering a postcard worthy landscape where many alpine chalets are the evidence of past life!

– Positive vertical drop : + 500 m, Negative vertical drop :- 500 m

– Schedule: 5 hours walking

Day 6 : La Rua (1880 m) – Sommet Bûcher (2254 m) : 360 ° view on the Queyras

A small descent to cross the bridge on the Aigue Agnelle and we ascend pleasant slopes to reach the Prés Fromage pass and Bûcher summit. An exceptional viewpoint, many alpine chalets, food close to a warm fire in the barn “Clot l’Henri”. So, a short, rich and unforgettable day!

– Positive vertical drop : + 500 m, Negative vertical drop :- 500 m

– Schedule: 4:30hs walking

Day7 :

End of the tour after breakfast.

And in the evening:

During this stay, you have free access to the sauna.

You will also have the opportunity to taste local products (tourtons Champsaur, local meats, honey, etc …).

The program is an example of snowshoeing, but these hikings may vary to find the best snow conditions.

I invite you to contact me if this adventure in snowshoes interests you. I’d be happy to take you in this beautiful Queyras region.