3 days of snowshoeing from refuge to refuge
In summary
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Sports
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Duration3 days
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LevelIntermediate
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DestinationBriançon / Écrins Massif
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AgeFrom 16 - 75 years
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CO₂-Emissions15.42 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
English
In a few words
Set off on snowshoes through the unspoiled Clarée Valley , a still relatively unknown gem of the Alps. Between silent larch forests , pristine plateaus and spectacular peaks , each day offers its share of panoramas and winter serenity .
Far from the crowds, this multi-day hike connects the mountain huts of Buffère, Chardonnet, and Laval in a friendly and authentic atmosphere. More challenging variations are available for those seeking a rewarding experience.
Here, winter shapes an enchanting setting : frozen rivers , powdery forests and virgin snows compose a perfect canvas for a gentle and active immersion in the heart of the mountains.
The highlights
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Cross one of the wildest and most unspoiled valleys in the Alps
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Stay in authentic mountain refuges, nestled in the heart of unspoiled nature.
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Benefit from the knowledge and passion of a certified local guide
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
The expert's opinion
This trip is for hikers in good physical condition who want to experience a true winter trek from mountain hut to mountain hut. No prior snowshoeing experience is necessary, but you must be able to walk for several hours a day on snowy terrain with a backpack.
The days involve regular ascents and descents, with elevation changes that can reach several hundred meters. The route crosses isolated valleys, forests and high mountain passes, offering complete immersion in the wild landscapes of the Alps.
Good stamina is recommended to fully enjoy several consecutive days of hiking in the mountains. The pace is adapted to the group, and the routes can be adjusted according to weather and snow conditions.
In figures
Snowshoes
- Average duration/day: 5h30
- Average distance/day: 6 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 409 m
- Average daily descent: 259 m
Management
French
English
Bernard is a UIAGM high-mountain guide, passionate about the mountains and wildlife. He shares his knowledge of the alpine environment and safely accompanies you to discover snowy landscapes and traces of wildlife.
The trip is led by a qualified mountain professional, experienced in guiding multi-day snowshoe hikes. They ensure the group's safety, manage progress in winter terrain, and adapt the itinerary daily according to weather and snow conditions.
Program
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Névache at the Buffère Refuge
- Activity Snowshoes
- Duration of the activity 5h30
- Distance 5 km
- Positive elevation gain 500 m
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
The trip begins this morning. If you are arriving from afar, we strongly recommend arriving the day before. We can recommend local accommodations or suggest taking the overnight train from Paris.
The meeting point is at 8:30 am in Briançon (train station or hotel), from where you will be taken to Névache to meet your guide and the rest of the group. A quick equipment check will be carried out before departure.
The first day begins gently through the magnificent Clarée Valley: a gradual route winding between tranquil forests and vast snow-covered landscapes. A perfect introduction to acclimatize and enjoy the alpine panoramas.
In the afternoon, settle comfortably at the Buffère refuge: hot drink, warm atmosphere, friendly exchanges… For the more motivated, a short optional hike to the pass or its surroundings is possible, without a backpack, depending on the weather conditions.
In the evening, enjoy a delicious meal, shared moments, and the comfort of a first night in a mountain refuge under the snow.
Day 1 -
From the Buffère Refuge to the Chardonnet Refuge
- Activity Snowshoes
- Duration of the activity 5h30
- Distance 5 km
- Positive elevation gain 379 m
- Negative elevation 248 m
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After a cozy night at the Buffère refuge, we set off again, descending gently through the snow-covered woods to the riverbank. Carried by the pure, invigorating air of the valley, we cross peaceful landscapes before beginning a gradual climb to our accommodation for the night: the Refuge du Chardonnet, nestled in a magnificent alpine setting.
This stage offers a beautiful diversity of scenery, between tranquil riverbanks, silent forests and wide expanses of snow offering unobstructed views of the peaks.
In the afternoon, depending on your energy and the conditions , you will have the opportunity to travel light for an additional exploration: snowshoeing to a high-altitude lake covered in snow, or climbing a pass offering breathtaking views of the surrounding terrain.
At the end of the day, settle comfortably into the refuge for a second convivial evening at altitude: warm meal, relaxed atmosphere, and lively exchanges about the highlights experienced together.
Day 2 -
From the Chardonnet Refuge to Névache
- Transportation Minibus - 00h30 - 20km
- Activity Snowshoes
- Duration of the activity 5h30
- Distance 6 km
- Positive elevation gain 346 m
- Negative elevation 529 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
After a final breakfast at the refuge, we put on our snowshoes one last time for the grand finale of our adventure: a magnificent snowshoe hike to Névache.
The trail begins with a descent, then climbs gently through varied terrain to form a loop before descending back into the valley to Névache. After two days immersed in the high mountains, today's hike is particularly smooth and pleasant, allowing ample time to fully appreciate the peace and beauty of the Clarée Valley.
Distance: 9.77 km | Elevation gain: 150 m | Elevation loss: 459 m | Altitude: from 2,011 m to 1,602 m
A final fun and rewarding day — the perfect opportunity to reflect on the journey so far and savor every moment.
We arrive in Névache in the mid-afternoon, where a well-deserved celebration awaits you! Whether it's over a hot drink, a slice of local cake, or simply taking a deep breath of the fresh mountain air, it's a moment to be proud of what you have accomplished.
Departure :
After a few final goodbyes and souvenir photos, you continue your journey, carrying with you not only tired but happy legs, but also memories of an unforgettable winter adventure.
We will take you back to Briançon and can also help you book an extra night there if needed. For those taking the night train, you can...
Day 3
Accommodation
You will be staying at the Refuge Buffère, a welcoming mountain refuge located at an altitude of 2,076 meters in the magnificent Clarée Valley. Nestled among larch trees and alpine pastures, it offers an authentic and friendly experience in a pristine natural environment. Accommodation is in shared dormitories, and the refuge has comfortable common areas for relaxing after a hike.
You will be staying at the Refuge du Chardonnet, an authentic mountain refuge located at an altitude of 2,227 m in the heart of the unspoiled Clarée Valley. Accessible only on foot, it offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, ideal for immersing yourself in the mountains.
Access
The trip ends in Briançon. We will arrange your return to the city and can also help you organize an additional night there if needed.
For travelers taking the night train, you will have enough time to enjoy dinner in Briançon before your departure.
Go to the starting point
Briançon is easily accessible by train from several major French cities.
From Paris, you can take the direct Intercités night train from Paris-Austerlitz to Briançon, a convenient option for overnight travel. Daytime connections are also available with a change in Valence or Grenoble.
From Marseille, TER trains directly connect Marseille to Briançon, crossing the spectacular landscapes of the Southern Alps.
The most convenient airports to reach the stay are Turin and Marseille.
From Turin , you can reach Briançon using the LinkBus shuttles. Alternatively, you can take public transport via Turin Porta Susa and then Oulx, before continuing by bus to Briançon.
From Marseille , first take the airport shuttle to Marseille Saint-Charles train station, then take the train to Briançon. The journey is longer but offers magnificent Alpine scenery.
Price details
The price includes
- 2 nights half-board (dinner and breakfast) in high mountain refuges.
- 2 picnic lunches
- 3 days of snowshoeing guided by a qualified local mountain guide
- Snowshoes and poles
- Avalanche safety pack (avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe)
- Return transfer from Briançon to Névache (starting point of the snowshoeing adventure)
- A free app for your smartphone, with all the details of the stay and other useful information.
- A contribution from you to a rewilding project with Mossy Earth.
The price does not include
- Your journey to Briançon
- Any additional accommodation for the first and last night (recommended if you are coming from far away)
- A picnic lunch on the first day
- Drinks and snacks are available in the mountain huts.
- Tips for the guide
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
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.
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
- Snowshoes and poles
- Avalanche safety pack (avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe)
Equipment to bring
- 35-litre backpack (with a waterproof cover if possible) to carry clothes, picnic, water bottle, etc.
- Water bottle or flask (Platypus type is useful, but beware of freezing: insulated tube recommended)
- Sunscreen and lip balm with sun protection
- Wraparound sunglasses to protect against glare on the snow
- Good quality ski goggles or masks are essential in snowy or windy conditions.
- Camera + memory cards and spare batteries
- Binoculars (optional)
- Thermos/insulated bottle (optional)
- Small seat or camping mat for sitting comfortably in the snow (optional)
- Bag sheet
Clothing to bring
- 2 or 3 pairs of warm walking socks (preferably with padding in strategic areas)
- Sturdy, waterproof and warm walking shoes (sneakers are not suitable)
- Waterproof jacket and waterproof trousers or overalls (with elasticated bottoms or gaiters to prevent snow from getting into shoes)
- Gaiters (as an additional item if the trousers do not have elasticated cuffs)
- Minimum three layers of clothing:
- Thin thermal layer or technical t-shirt (avoid cotton)
- Medium-weight fleece
- Thicker fleece
- Extra sweater or fleece
- Fleece pants or thermal underwear to wear under outer pants
- Gloves (preferably one waterproof and warm pair + one fleece pair)
- Beanie, neck warmer or ear warmer (several options for different temperatures)
- Cap or sun hat for sunny winter days
- Down jacket (optional, but very useful for very cold days)
