The wonders of the Vercors with a guide: hiking and well-being

Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).

In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.

It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.

ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.

In your bag for the day:

1. 1 small backpack (35 to 40 L) equipped with a waist belt.
2. 1 thermos or a water bottle, preferably insulated (2 litres minimum).
3. Picnic essentials: 1 pocket knife, 1 fork-spoon, 1 cup, 1 Tupperware -type airtight container (for a portion of salad).
4. Race snacks (energy bars, dried fruit or chocolate for those with a sweet tooth).
5. 1 small waterproof pouch containing identity card, health insurance card and assistance contract received upon registration if you subscribed to this insurance or that of your personal insurance.
6. 1 personal first aid kit (see complete kit suggestion below)
7. Toilet paper.
8. 1 pair of sunglasses + sunscreen.
9. 1 sun hat or cap.
10. A scarf or a "buff" (neck warmer) provides a solution for all situations to cover the neck and head, whether it is hot or cold.
11. 1 rain cover + 1 sturdy plastic bag (to protect the contents)
12. Optionally: 1 pair of hiking poles + 1 headlamp + 1 survival blanket.

It's important to understand the mountain environment and its unpredictable weather, which can quickly swing from one extreme to the other. Being well-equipped will allow you to enjoy your holiday even more!

Clothing, the principles:

For both the upper and lower body, opt for "multi-layering". This means several layers of clothing that you can remove or add depending on the temperature and the level of exertion.

For example :

1. A thermal undershirt with short or long sleeves made of breathable material (hollow fiber).
2. A warm fleece jacket or a down jacket.
3. A windproof, waterproof and breathable jacket of the Gore-Tex type.

In calm, sunny weather, a base layer may be sufficient. In rainy or windy conditions, simply add a waterproof jacket or rain poncho. Even in summer, when it can get cold in the mountains or during breaks, a fleece jacket or down jacket is an essential addition.

Choose clothes that dry quickly , so avoid cotton. Opt for synthetic fibers or merino wool, which will keep you dry and warm for as long as possible.

Remember to dress warmly before you get cold , but especially to remove layers before you get too hot . Sweat is a hiker's enemy, as it dampens clothing that quickly becomes icy during breaks. Therefore, it's very rare to undertake a climb wearing a fleece jacket.

Your complete luggage (list to be adapted according to the season) :

1. 2 short-sleeved t-shirts made of breathable material.
2. 1 long-sleeved undershirt in breathable material or a shirt.
3. 1 fleece jacket or 1 down jacket.
4. 1 waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex type windproof jacket with hood.
5. 1 rain cape.
6. 1 pair of loose and comfortable trekking trousers.
7. 1 pair of waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex type overtrousers, especially in spring or autumn.
8. Hiking socks. Opt for wool or specific hiking socks like terry cloth, which will prevent your feet from overheating prematurely. Be careful with cotton, as it can cause blisters.
9. 1 pair of hiking boots in good condition, with good ankle support and waterproofing, with Vibram-type soles. Remember to "test" new boots and those that haven't been used for a long time beforehand (check in particular if the sole glue is still holding and re-waterproof them).
10. 1 pair of lightweight casual shoes for the evening.
11. 1 pair of comfortable trousers for the evening.
12. Your underwear.
13. 1 swimsuit + 1 bath towel for the wellness area. In the room, you will find a bath towel for the shower.
14. Toiletries (opt for the essentials and small sizes).
15. Earplugs or ear pads (optional).
16. If you wear prescription glasses, remember to bring a spare pair.

And then

1. A dose of good cheer!
2. Your favorite board game if you want to share a friendly moment after dinner.
3. And if you are a musician, feel free to bring your instrument of choice or your sheet music, the house piano is waiting for you.

Suggestions for a personal first aid kit

1. Your usual medications.
2. Pain medication: Paracetamol preferred.
3. Elastic adhesive strip, Elastoplast type, 8 cm wide.
4. Disinfectant compresses.
5. Adhesive bandages.
6. Double skin (like Compeed or SOS blisters).
7. Lozenges for sore throats.
8. Vitamin C.
9. 1 pair of tweezers.
10. 1 tick remover.
11. Hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes.