Snowshoeing in the Haut-Giffre valley above Samoëns
In summary
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Sports
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Duration2 days
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LevelConfirmed
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DestinationSamoëns / French Alps
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AgeFrom 16 - 70 years
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CO₂-Emissions7.31 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
English
In a few words
Soar above the snow-covered peaks of the Haut-Giffre on a two-day snowshoeing adventure starting from Samoëns . Far from the crowds, this exclusive route through the Chablais massif alternates between peaceful woodlands and more rugged, rocky landscapes. After a beautiful day of hiking through the forest, the evening unfolds with a warm, traditional meal and a peaceful night at the Bostan refuge , nestled at the foot of the impressive Dents d'Oddaz . The next day, the adventure continues with a loop back to the sublime Tête de Bostan , offering a spectacular panorama of the Alps. An ideal immersion in the heart of unspoiled nature, perfect for experiencing the mountains in winter at your own pace.
The highlights
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A snowshoeing touring experience
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A night in a mountain refuge
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Superb views of the Chablais massif
Photos
Sport
Level
Snowshoeing
The expert's opinion
- Physical condition: I am in good physical condition. I do some kind of sport at least once a week. I enjoy pushing myself with sometimes long efforts, but I sometimes need rest between activities.
- Elevation gain: 600m to 900m maximum elevation gain per day
- Maximum duration of effort: 6 hours per day
- Experience required: Snowshoeing experience recommended
- Carrying method: Backpack
- Technical difficulties: Some sections may take place on steep slopes requiring a certain level of technical skill and physical fitness.
In figures
Snowshoes
- Average duration/day: 5h
- Average distance/day: 9 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 700 m
- Average daily descent: 703 m
Management
French
English
A professional snowshoeing instructor, he will share his passion for the mountains with you through numerous anecdotes.
During this stay, you will be accompanied by a mountain guide. He will be there to guide you, share his knowledge, and ensure your safety.
Program
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Ascent to the Bostan refuge via the Col de la Golèse
- Activity Snowshoes
- Duration of the activity 3h35
- Distance 6 km
- Positive elevation gain 725 m
- Negative elevation 80 m
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
The first day of hiking begins at the Allamands parking area at 1096m. We ascend a forest track towards the Col de la Golèse pass. Upon exiting the forest, the view opens up. We continue our trek to the Col de la Golèse before reaching the Dents d'Oddaz peaks. After passing a shoulder of the mountain, we descend into the valley where our refuge for the night is located.
Day 1 -
Loop via Bostan's head
- Activity Snowshoes
- Duration of the activity 6h
- Distance 12 km
- Positive elevation gain 675 m
- Negative elevation 1325 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
On the second day, we ascend the wild valley beneath the Dents d'Oddaz towards the Col de Bostan. We then continue our trek towards the Tête de Bostan, which rises to 2406m. The view over the Chablais region and the Dents du Midi is magnificent. We follow the ridge path and descend towards the Bostan forest to return to our starting point.
Day 2
Note
The program is provided as a guide only. The mountain guide may modify or adapt the itinerary daily depending on:
- weather conditions;
- snow conditions;
- the actual technical and physical level of the participants;
- security requirements.
Accommodation
The Bostan refuge has 72 beds spread across 7 dormitories. Duvets, blankets, and pillows are provided. Don't forget your sleeping bag liner!
Access
Appointment
Meet on day 1 at 9:30 am in the Allamands parking lot for the briefing and to check each participant's personal equipment.
Meeting point address: Chem. du Crêt Vosy, 74340 Samoëns. Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/nAQC3SA6HVq8fTrD6
End of stay
Return to the starting point the following afternoon (around 4pm). You will need a personal vehicle equipped with winter gear to reach the start of the trip.
Go to the starting point
From the train station to the starting point:
- By bus (Cars Région Haute-Savoie - Line Y92 / Y93) + Taxi: Regular buses connect Cluses train station to Samoëns bus station (approximately 35-minute journey, ticket price approximately €3.00 to €6.00 ). From the center of Samoëns to the Allamands parking area (7 km uphill), complete the journey by local taxi or dedicated shuttle.
- By taxi / private hire vehicle: The direct taxi journey from Cluses train station to the Allamands car park takes approximately 30 to 35 minutes (estimated fare between €60 and €90 depending on the time slot and the season).
Price details
The price includes
- The trip will be supervised by a state-certified mountain guide.
- Accommodation in mountain huts and dormitories (bunk beds available)
- Half-board (dinner and breakfast) at the refuge and the picnic lunch on day 2
- Loan of snowshoes and poles
- Loan of rescue equipment (avalanche transceiver/shovel/probe)
The price does not include
- Day 1 picnic
- Transportation to the starting point of the stay
- Drinks and your race snacks (dried fruit, cereal bars)
- Your hiking equipment adapted to winter conditions
- Anything not listed under "Price includes"
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
- Loan of snowshoes and poles
- Loan of rescue equipment (avalanche transceiver/shovel/probe)
Equipment to bring
- High-top hiking boots suitable for snowshoeing ( warm and waterproof are essential ).
- Backpack with a minimum volume of 40L.
- Thermos or 1L water bottle ( No camelback ).
- Headlamp.
- Sunglasses (masks are preferable in snow and wind), sunscreen, lipstick.
- Ultralight toiletry kit.
- Personal pharmacy.
- Snacks for hunger pangs (cereal bars, dried fruit, etc.).
- Meat bag.
Bag weight:
Take your time packing your bag, choosing each item with the idea that you'll be carrying it for the duration of your trip. Organize it cleverly; don't pack your picnic or raincoat at the bottom. The goal is to balance it as much as possible to make carrying it as comfortable as possible.
Clothing to bring
Exploring the mountains in winter requires being properly equipped to ensure that the experience remains as enjoyable as possible.
Below is a list of minimum equipment you should bring on your adventure. You can add to this list, but be mindful of the final weight.
Essential personal equipment:
- Goretex type trousers + tights + gaiters or ski trousers ( must be warm and waterproof ).
- Waterproof hiking jacket, Gore-Tex type.
- Warm and "breathable" underwear.
- Polar or equivalent.
- Warm down jacket for the evening.
- “Buff” style hat and neck warmer to protect the face.
- A pair of warm gloves (waterproof overgloves in addition, mittens are preferable in very cold weather).
- Spare underwear to dry off in the evening.
Textiles:
When it comes to underwear (T-shirts, boxer shorts, socks), avoid cotton, which dries very slowly. Opt instead for synthetic technical fabrics or merino wool. They are warmer and dry very quickly.
