New Year's Eve snowshoeing and spa treatment in the Chartreuse Natural Park
In summary
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Sports
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Duration6 days
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LevelIntermediate
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DestinationChartreuse Mountains / Savoy
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AgeFrom the age of 18
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CO₂-Emissions81.85 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
In a few words
New Year's Eve & Spa in Chartreuse: The Splendor of the Mountains for a Festive and Rejuvenating End to the Year
Come celebrate the New Year in the heart of the Chartreuse mountains! This all-inclusive stay offers a unique experience, combining festive moments, guided explorations, and a moment of pure relaxation. Prepare for a memorable end to the year, filled with conviviality and well-being.
Adventure and Discovery in Chartreuse
Under the expert guidance of Olivier and Patrice, your passionate guides, set off in search of the hidden treasures of the Chartreuse Natural Park. On the agenda: snowshoe hikes through picturesque villages, the magical discovery of the Grande Chartreuse Monastery and the Church of Saint-Hugues, or even the winter ascent of the Charmant Som. In Chartreuse, a special atmosphere reigns, made up of authentic encounters and breathtaking landscapes. The proposed routes combine the tranquility of the undergrowth with the majesty of easy and spectacular trails, accessible to all.
A Wellness Break at the Oréade Spa Centre
After exertion, relaxation! For three days, in the late afternoon, savor the treasures of the Oréade Spa Center in Saint-Pierre-de-Chartreuse, located just 300 meters from your 3-star hotel. True to the spirit of the Chartreuse Natural Park, we have designed with Oréade "a wellness break by nature" thanks to a unique concept: an open-air spa.
The highlights
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A festive New Year's Eve in a warm atmosphere in the heart of the Chartreuse.
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Discover the most beautiful sites of the Chartreuse Regional Natural Park.
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An exclusive spa program, designed to promote recovery after outings.
Photos
Sport
Level
Snowshoeing
The expert's opinion
The walking pace is leisurely and steady, emphasizing discovery rather than athletic effort.
Average elevation gain: 470 m Maximum elevation gain: 510 m
Average length: 9 km Maximum: 12 km
Average time: 4 hours 45 minutes Maximum: 5 hours
In figures
Snowshoes
- Average duration/day: 4h30
- Average distance/day: 9 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 472 m
- Average daily descent: 472 m
- Maximum altitude: 1867 m
Management
French
Your guide is a state-certified professional, specializing in snowshoeing and possessing extensive knowledge of the Chartreuse mountain range. They ensure the safe and enjoyable experience of your hikes by selecting routes, adapting the pace, managing logistics, and taking into account weather and snow conditions. They also strive to maintain group dynamics and cohesion, while facilitating your exploration of the mountain environment and passionately sharing their knowledge of nature. Throughout your stay, they remain available and attentive to your needs to make your experience as pleasant as possible.
Program
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Welcome
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
We will welcome you at the Hotel Le Beau Site (04 38 02 10 12) in Saint-Pierre-de-Chartreuse at 7pm.
If you arrive by train, meet at 5:30pm at the Chambéry-Challes-les-Eaux TGV station, Centre-Ville exit (transfer available upon reservation during registration).
Your guide will then present the week's program to you, before dinner.
Day 1 -
The ridges of Montfromage (1662 m)
- Activity Snowshoes
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Distance 8 km
- Positive elevation gain 400 m
- Negative elevation 400 m
- Maximum altitude 1662 m
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Starting from the Col de Porte, we explore varied terrain perfectly suited to snowshoeing.
For the first picnic together, it is desirable that each participant brings a specialty from their region, in order to open the hike with a warm and delicious cultural sharing.
Following a route through the heart of the forest, we reach several accessible ridges before arriving at the summit of Montfromage (1,662 m).
A gentle first descent allows us to gain confidence on the initial slopes, leaving room only for the pleasure of progressing in this enchanting winter world.
Walking time: 4 hours
Distance: 8 km
Elevation gain/loss: +400 m / -400 m
Day 2 -
The Monastery of La Grande Chartreuse (1001 m)
- Activity Snowshoes
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 8 km
- Positive elevation gain 500 m
- Negative elevation 500 m
- Maximum altitude 1001 m
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
We hike in the heart of the silence zone of the Grande Chartreuse Monastery, a place where the history and austere life of the Carthusian monks, present for more than nine centuries, can be felt at every step.
Our route takes us to the Habert de Billon, former sheepfold of the Carthusians, before discovering the chapels of Notre-Dame de Casalibus and Saint Bruno, erected on the site of the very first monastery.
In the late afternoon, enjoy your wellness moment with a presentation of the Oréade center, followed by a spa session including sauna, hot outdoor baths and relaxation under the yurt for the first group, while the second enjoys a relaxing massage, a facial treatment or a 30-minute scrub, followed by a sauna session.
Walking time: 5 hours
Distance: 8 km
Elevation gain/loss: +500 m / -500 m
Day 3 -
The Hamlets of St Pierre de Chartreuse and the Church of St Hugues (880 m)
- Activity Snowshoes
- Duration of the activity 4h30
- Distance 9 km
- Positive elevation gain 500 m
- Negative elevation 500 m
- Maximum altitude 880 m
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
This day is dedicated to discovering some of the many hamlets of Saint-Pierre-de-Chartreuse, where you will learn to recognize the typical Chartreuse architecture of the houses and barns.
We reach the Church of Saint-Hugues (880 m) for a remarkable visit. This unique place of contemporary sacred art is entirely decorated and furnished by a single artist, Arcabas, who designed the paintings, stained glass windows, sculptures, candelabras and even the altar, offering a complete and unforgettable artistic experience.
In the late afternoon, enjoy your wellness moment with the first group who will enjoy a relaxing massage, a facial or a 30-minute scrub, followed by a sauna session, while the second group will relax in the spa with sauna, hot outdoor baths and rest under the yurt.
It's also time for the festive and themed evening! Join us from 7:30 pm at the hotel restaurant for a pleasant moment of relaxation, laughter and dancing.
Walking time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Distance: 9 km
Elevation gain/loss: +500 m / -500 m
Day 4 -
The Entremont Desert and the Pointe de la Cochette
- Activity Snowshoes
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Distance 7 km
- Positive elevation gain 450 m
- Negative elevation 450 m
- Maximum altitude 1618 m
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
We set off to explore the Entremont Desert. After a peaceful immersion in the forest, we begin the ascent of the Pointe de La Cochette (1,618 m), from where the panorama over the Grand Som massif is simply spectacular.
We then descend towards the Désert d'Entremont plateau, just as the sun is setting, offering an exceptional view of the Italian side of Mont Blanc through the gap of the Col du Granier.
In the late afternoon, enjoy a moment of well-being with a spa session for everyone, including sauna, outdoor hot baths and relaxation under the yurt.
Walking time: 4 hours
Distance: 7 km
Elevation gain/loss: +450 m / -450 m
Day 5 -
Le Charmant Som (1867 m)
- Activity Snowshoes
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 12 km
- Positive elevation gain 510 m
- Negative elevation 510 m
- Maximum altitude 1867 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
We conclude this week in style with a gentle climb which leads us first to the alpine pastures, then to the summit of Charmant Som (1,867 m), the highest point of our stay.
From the cross, the 360-degree panorama is breathtaking, offering a spectacular view of the Monastery valley and the entire Chartreuse.
The stay ends in Saint-Pierre-de-Chartreuse at 4:15pm or 5:30pm, with transfer possible upon reservation at registration to Chambéry train station.
Walking time: 5 hours
Distance: 12 km
Elevation gain/loss: +510 m / -510 m
Day 6
Note
The program outlined is a guideline and may be adapted depending on weather conditions, snow cover, or any local constraints. Your guide will use their experience and professionalism to address these unforeseen circumstances, adjusting the program as needed. For example, a sunny day might mean a hike to a summit, while overcast weather might favor a walk in the forest. These adjustments are always made in your best interest, for your safety and comfort.
Spa and wellness option
This winter, spa treatments and access to the wellness center are offered as optional extras to keep the price of your stay down. If you would like to enjoy these relaxing moments and wellness workshops, the spa option is available for €145 per person.
Snow cover
We are, first and foremost, hikers, and even if snow is scarce, especially at the beginning or end of the season, our trips will still take place. The winter atmosphere and light are always present, even if you sometimes have to carry your snowshoes on your pack to reach the snow. Since we started organizing this hike, it has rarely been necessary to use snowshoes.
Accommodation
You will be staying at the Hotel Beau Site, a warm establishment run by the same family for five generations, ideally located in the heart of the village of Saint-Pierre-de-Chartreuse and only 300 m from the Oréade centre.
You will be accommodated in comfortable rooms, with private shower and toilet.
Individual bookings are grouped in single-sex rooms of 2 to 3 people. A single room is also possible, subject to availability and at an additional cost.
Access
Welcome :
If you arrive by car or bus, you can go directly to the Hotel Le Beau Site in Saint-Pierre-de-Chartreuse at 7:00 PM.
Parking is readily available near your accommodation.
Being in a mountainous area, winter equipment is mandatory (snow tires or chains). Remember to practice installing them before you leave.
If you arrive by train, meet at 5:30 pm at the Chambéry-Challes-les-Eaux TGV station, in front of the Le Kiosque à Journaux newsagent. A round-trip transfer to the hotel is available for €30 per person; this must also be booked when registering.
In case of delay on the same day, you can leave a message directly at the Hotel Le Beau Site or at the agency on 04 51 20 50 50.
Dispersion:
The stay ends at 4:15 pm at your accommodation or at 5:30 pm at the Chambéry TGV station if you have booked the transfer.
Additional accommodation
If you wish to arrive the day before your stay or extend your departure by one day, please do not hesitate to contact us on 04 51 20 50 50 to arrange your accommodation.
Go to the starting point
Chambéry-Challes-les-Eaux TGV station.
If you arrive by train, meet at 5:30 pm at the Chambéry-Challes-les-Eaux TGV station, in front of the Le Kiosque à Journaux newsagent. A round-trip transfer to the hotel is available for €30 per person; this must also be booked when registering.
Parking is readily available near your accommodation.
Being in a mountainous area, winter equipment is mandatory (snow tires or chains).
Remember to practice installing them before you leave.
Price details
The price includes
- Organization and supervision costs.
- Full board food and accommodation.
- Wine and a glass of champagne for New Year's Eve.
- Loan of snowshoes and poles.
- The transfers planned in the program.
The price does not include
- Drinks and personal expenses.
- Spa sessions can be booked as an option (+145.00 euros / person).
- Personal equipment.
- The journeys to and from the reception location.
- The different types of insurance
- Everything that is not listed under "The price includes".
Options
- Single room (subject to availability) : CHF219.55 / unit
- Spa and wellness option (3 sessions, including a 30-minute massage) : CHF132.65 / unit
- Round-trip transfer from Chambéry train station : CHF27.44 / person
- Additional night in a room + breakfast package, based on 2 people : CHF68.61 / person
- Additional night with bed and breakfast option, single room : CHF114.35 / person
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
During the hike, you must have the following documents in your possession:
- Valid identity card or passport.
- Your travel insurance leaflet received upon registration (if you purchased the insurance we offer) or your personal insurance (contract number + telephone number).
- Health insurance card.
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
We offer robust and lightweight snowshoes, equipped with plate bindings and anti-slip tips, compatible with all mountain or trekking shoes, as well as rigid poles and specific hiking safety equipment.
- Snowshoes: TSL
- Poles: rigid, stronger than telescopic models
This equipment is provided free of charge. If you already have your own reliable equipment, you are welcome to use it. In that case, please let us know when you register, specifying what you will be bringing. This will allow us to better assess the group's equipment needs.
Equipment to bring
Equipment
- Backpack 35-40 litres, flexible frame, with waist belt and snowshoe attachments
- Plastic bag to protect the inside of the backpack
- High-quality sunglasses with side protection
- Water bottle or insulated thermos (minimum 1.5 liters)
- Opinel-type pocket knife
- Small waterproof pouch for money, ID card, health insurance card and assistance contract
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- Airtight plastic container (0.5 l minimum), cup and cutlery
- Camera and binoculars (optional)
- Personal pharmacy
- Usual medications
- Elastic adhesive strip (Elastoplast type, 8 cm)
- Adhesive bandages and disinfectant compresses
- Double-layer blister plasters (like Compeed or SOS Blisters)
- Tweezers
For the spa center
- Swimsuit and two towels or bathrobe (swimsuit can be purchased and towels rented on site)
- Bathing clogs provided
Clothing to bring
Clothing principles for the upper body
- The three-layer system allows it to adapt to almost any situation:
- Long-sleeved undershirt made of breathable material (hollow fiber).
- Warm fleece jacket for breaks or very cold weather.
Waterproof and breathable windproof jacket (Gore-Tex type) to protect against wind, rain or snow.
When hiking in calm, sunny weather, a base layer may be sufficient. In bad weather, a waterproof jacket is enough, and a fleece becomes essential during breaks or in very cold conditions.
Opt for quick-drying clothing: wool (merino underwear), silk, or synthetic fibers. Avoid cotton.
Dress warmly before you get cold, but undress before you get too hot. Sweat dampens clothing and can quickly lead to chills. Avoid anoraks or ski suits, which are too warm and bulky.
Ideal clothing list (to be adapted according to the hike and the season)
- Sun hat or cap
- Scarf or neck warmer
- Cap
- A pair of mittens, possibly accompanied by silk gloves and an extra pair
- Breathable short-sleeved T-shirts
- Long-sleeved undershirt or breathable shirt
- Fleece jacket
- Waterproof and breathable windproof jacket with hood (Gore-Tex type)
- Rain poncho or sleeping bag cover if the waterproof jacket is already provided
- Loose-fitting trekking trousers
- Waterproof and breathable overtrousers (Gore-Tex type)
- Hiking socks (1 pair for 2 to 3 days, wool or hiking-specific, avoid cotton)
- High-top, waterproof hiking boots with Vibram-type soles (test the boots before departure; avoid boots or après-ski boots)
- gaiters
