Snowshoeing in the Bauges mountains
In summary
-
Sports
-
Duration6 days
-
LevelIntermediate
-
DestinationBauges Mountains / Savoy
-
AgeFrom 15 - 75 years
-
CO₂-Emissions64.61 kg CO2
-
Type of stayIn a group
-
Languages
French
In a few words
In the heart of winter , set off to explore the Bauges mountain range , an authentic region nestled between Lake Annecy and the Chartreuse mountains . This snowshoeing trip will lead you to discover a protected area, comprised of 14 villages and remarkable natural diversity. Each day, a loop hike will reveal a different facet of the range: panoramic ridges , silent forests , animal tracks , as well as local heritage and mountain traditions .
Away from the crowds, you'll enjoy an intimate setting and a program that adapts to the weather , snow conditions , and the group's pace , ensuring a safe and enjoyable mountain experience. The warm and comfortable accommodation is ideally located in the lively village of Le Châtelard , just steps from the mountain office and hiking trails.
A perfect winter getaway for lovers of wild nature , authentic encounters and wide open snowy spaces .
The highlights
-
Comfortable accommodation
-
Local expert team of the massif
-
Varied routes allowing you to discover all facets of the mountain range
Photos
Sport
Level
Snowshoeing
The expert's opinion
You regularly engage in gentle physical activity and already own snowshoes, even if only occasionally. While not an expert, you possess the necessary basic skills to participate in this intermediate-level trip.
Need to get back in shape before the start? A few light jogs or brisk walks will be enough to strengthen your endurance and prepare you calmly.
In figures
Snowshoes
- Average duration/day: 4h30
- Average distance/day: 10 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 528 m
- Average daily descent: 528 m
Management
If one word could define Ambroise, it would be: pedagogy and a love of sharing knowledge. Kind and caring, he enjoys helping you discover the Bauges mountains. He will ensure the safety and well-being of the group.
The mountain guide will lead you throughout your hikes. An expert on the mountain range, he knows the area like the back of his hand. He is there to guide you and ensure your safety, but he is also a source of knowledge: wildlife, geology, heritage. And of course, the guide will share his love of the mountains with you.
Program
-
Welcome
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Between 4pm and 6pm, you will be welcomed by the Terres d'Altitude team and shown to your rooms. There will be a presentation about the trip and preparation for the first day of hiking.
Everyone can bring a specialty from their region to share with the rest of the group, which we will enjoy as an aperitif.
Day 1 -
The Chalets of La Fulie
- Transportation Minibus - 00h25 - 20km
- Activity Snowshoes
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 11 km
- Positive elevation gain 586 m
- Negative elevation 586 m
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Starting from the Chartreuse des Aillons, we'll head towards the Chalets de la Fulie, nestled beneath the imposing Mont Colombier (2043m). During the ascent to the chalet, we'll practice winter safety techniques, equipment handling, and avalanche transceiver searches. Upon arriving at the Chalets de la Fulie, a breathtaking view of the Bauges and Belledonne mountain ranges will invite a moment of quiet contemplation. We'll continue our hike towards Mont de la Vierge, which offers a panoramic view of the Bauges valleys, before beginning the descent back to our starting point.
Day 2 -
Allant Cross
- Transportation Minibus - 00h10 - 7km
- Activity Snowshoes
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 9 km
- Positive elevation gain 650 m
- Negative elevation 650 m
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
A superb classic route above Jarsy. The beautiful shoulder of Allant offers panoramic views and allows you to climb to 1700m. A hike surrounded by the great peaks of the Bauges, namely the "Bauges trilogy": Arcalod (2217m), Pécloz (2197m) and Trélod (2181m).
Day 3 -
The western plateaus of the Bauges
- Transportation Minibus - 00h15 - 10km
- Activity Snowshoes
- Duration of the activity 4h30
- Distance 9 km
- Positive elevation gain 500 m
- Negative elevation 500 m
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Today, we'll discover a new facet of the massif, with its gentler terrain, including the Creux de Lachat valley. We'll set off above the village of Arith towards Le Mariet: a wide valley, open to the north, which connects to hidden valleys via numerous paths and passes. We'll reach the Creux de Lachat refuge: the landscape then opens up towards the distant Jura mountains, the entire Bauges massif, and of course, Big Brother: Mont Blanc!
Day 4 -
The Wildlife Reserve
- Transportation Minibus - 00h15 - 10km
- Activity Snowshoes
- Duration of the activity 5h30
- Distance 11 km
- Positive elevation gain 600 m
- Negative elevation 600 m
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
We will enter this beautiful valley above the chapel of Notre Dame de Bellevaux. The Arclusaz valley is a site of ancient pastoralism. It is a major site in the Bauges Massif, offering an inner view of the Bauges massif.
Day 5 -
The Doucy Golet
- Transportation Minibus - 00h30 - 20km
- Activity Snowshoes
- Duration of the activity 3h30
- Distance 6 km
- Positive elevation gain 300 m
- Negative elevation 300 m
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
We'll begin this day between alpine pastures and forests, heading towards the Golet de Doucy. This beautiful pastoral spot is dominated by the imposing Dent des Portes. The valley opens to the south, revealing the magnificent peaks of the Bauges mountains. We'll depart from Le Châtelard at 2 pm on the last day.
Day 6
Note
For a successful snowshoeing trip, we adapt your itinerary according to weather conditions, snow cover, and the group size. In such cases, we will always offer you alternatives of equivalent quality. Rest assured that these adjustments are always made in your best interest, to guarantee your safety and comfort throughout the trip.
Accommodation
It's a multifaceted building, overlooking both the main street and the small pedestrian square with its fountain. It's an old Savoyard house dating back to the 18th century, lovingly renovated by us. While sometimes unconventional, traces of its history remain.
Access
Internal transport : You will be driven by the tour leader in their 9-seater minibus. If the group exceeds the minibus's capacity, you will take turns using a vehicle belonging to the other participants.
Access by road
From Aix-les-Bains (30 kms), Aix Nord exit A41 motorway, follow the Bauges massif via Grésy-sur-Aix, Cusy, Lescheraines then Le Châtelard.
Access by train
SNCF train station Chambéry or Aix-les-Bains. Francony bus from Aix-les-Bains or Chambéry train stations, line 30. Timetables on the website www.francony.com or by calling 04 79 54 81 23.
Bus at 5:30 pm from Chambéry train station towards Le Châtelard and at 6 pm from Aix-les-Bains train station. Arrive at the bottom of the village.
Return bus at 1:58 PM towards Aix-les-Bains and Chambéry. Please note: there are no buses on Sundays and public holidays. For a transfer option from the train station, please see the fares section.
Parking: You park your vehicle at Châtelard, unguarded but safe parking opposite the Town Hall.
Go to the starting point
SNCF train station Chambéry or Aix-les-Bains. Francony bus from Aix-les-Bains or Chambéry train stations, line 30. Timetables are available on the website www.francony.com or by calling +33 4 79 54 81 23. Please note: there are no buses on Sundays and public holidays. For train station transfers, please see the fares section.
Access by road
From Aix-les-Bains (30 kms), Aix Nord exit A41 motorway, follow the Bauges massif via Grésy-sur-Aix, Cusy, Lescheraines then Le Châtelard.
Parking: You park your vehicle at Châtelard, unguarded but safe parking opposite the Town Hall.
Price details
The price includes
Accommodation in a double room with full board (from dinner on day 1 to picnic lunch on day 6)
Guided by a Terres d'Altitude mountain guide
Loan of snowshoes, walking sticks
If necessary, loan of winter safety equipment (avalanche transceiver, shovel, probe)
Internal transfers
The price does not include
Transportation to the meeting point
Your potential insurance policies
Drinks, wine during meals
Personal expenses
Transportation from the train station to the accommodation.
Options
- Single room : CHF96.05 / person
- Additional night in a double or twin room : CHF69.52 / person
- Single room during the stay : CHF173.81 / person
- 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
- TSL racket
- Telescopic poles
- Winter safety equipment if necessary
Equipment to bring
Essential equipment
1 backpack of 30/35 litres with a flexible frame, equipped with a waist belt, with straps to attach your snowshoes
1 pair of hiking shoes that provide good ankle support and are waterproof, with Vibram-type soles (absolutely avoid boots and après-ski boots which are not suitable for snowshoes)
1 pair of high gaiters that cover your shoes and lower leg well
1 large plastic bag to protect the inside of the backpack
1 pair of excellent quality sunglasses.
1 thermos for a hot drink is essential in winter
1 small airtight plastic container, cup, knife and fork for picnics,
race food of your choice
1 survival blanket
Toilet paper with a small resealable bag to take it back to a bin once used
sunscreen and lip balm
Clothing to bring
Clothing: When hiking, the 3-layer system remains the recommended equipment for your comfort and safety.
a long-sleeved undershirt made of breathable material (hollow fiber).
a warm fleece or down jacket
a windproof, waterproof and breathable jacket (Gore-Tex type)
Depending on the weather and the level of exertion, you can always choose the most effective clothing option. When hiking in calm, sunny weather, a base layer may suffice. In rain, snow, or wind, simply add a waterproof jacket. In very cold conditions, or during breaks at altitude, a fleece jacket is an essential layer under a windproof jacket. Choose quick-drying clothing and therefore avoid cotton. Opt for wool, silk, and synthetic fibers, which will keep you dry and warm for as long as possible. Sweat is the hiker's enemy, especially in winter, as it dampens clothing, which quickly becomes icy during breaks. Avoid anoraks and ski suits, which are too warm and bulky.
Recommended clothing for hiking:
1 beanie
1 pair of warm gloves (bring 1 spare pair)
2 short-sleeved t-shirts suitable for exertion (made of breathable material)
1 long-sleeved base layer also suitable for exertion
1 fleece or down jacket
1 windproof, waterproof and breathable jacket with a hood if possible (Gore-Tex type or equivalent)
1 protective cover for the backpack against bad weather (often integrated into the bag)
1 pair of trousers suitable for walking (jeans are not allowed, as they freeze when wet)
1 pair of waterproof and breathable overtrousers (Gore-Tex type or equivalent)
1 pair of warm underwear
2 to 3 pairs of hiking socks, high and warm, and suitable for walking
The Élise team
We are sorry to hear that.
Help us improve this page. Tell us what information you would have liked to see.
Have a question about this trip?
Select the type of request, and we will get back to you shortly.
- Valid for a first booking on our site, with no minimum purchase required.
- Can be combined with any other current promotion.
- Not valid on air transport, carbon offsetting and insurance.
- All you need to do is subscribe to our newsletter.
- You will receive your promo code by email immediately after registering.
- ✅ A 100% identical offer: Same dates, same services, same sales conditions.
- ✅ A public and accessible price: The offer must be proposed by a French professional website, in euros.
- ❌ Flights and transport in your name: Airline or train tickets already issued in your name are not refundable under this guarantee.
- ❌ Specific named services: Certain personalized services (such as a special permit or a named registration for a race or accommodation) may be excluded.
- You pay a 30% deposit today to reserve your stay.
- The balance (the remaining 70%) must be paid no later than 30 days before departure.
- ✅ Of an amount greater than €300.
- ✅ Whose departure is in more than 30 days.