A snowshoe tour of the Queyras region, staying in a gîte.

During the hike, you must have the following documents in your possession:

• Valid identity card or passport.

• Health insurance card.

• Your travel insurance leaflet received upon registration (if you purchased this insurance through our offices) or your personal insurance (contract number + telephone number).

For effective winter hiking, we equip you with a pair of TSL snowshoes suited to your size and walking poles for added stability. The snowshoes, fitted with crampons, ensure good grip on hard-packed snow and optimal comfort regardless of snow conditions.

Safety is our top priority. We provide you with an avalanche transceiver (DVA) to wear, as well as a collapsible shovel and a folding probe to pack in your bag. On the first day, your guide will train you on how to use them during a quick and simple practical exercise.

With this complete equipment and the expertise of your guide, you can enjoy the winter mountains with complete peace of mind.

For a stress-free stay, we arrange for your luggage to be transferred between each accommodation by taxi. You will leave behind anything you don't need during the day (change of clothes, toiletries, etc.).

Namely:

1. Only one soft-sided piece of luggage per person (travel bag type)
2. Maximum weight: 8 kg
3. Hard-shell suitcases are prohibited.

These guidelines help the carrier's job, especially in winter when snow limits access to accommodations. Overly heavy or bulky luggage cannot be handled.

Thanks to this service, you can hike light! All you need to bring is a 35-38L backpack for the day, to hold your picnic, some warm clothes, a thermos and the safety equipment provided by your guide (shovel and probe).

Your survival gear for the day:

1. 35/38 litre backpack with waist belt
2. Waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support and a Vibram sole. (Absolutely avoid boots and après-ski boots, which are not suitable for snowshoes.)
3. 1 pair of high gaiters that cover your shoes and lower legs well
4. Thermos or water bottle
5. Cup, knife and fork for picnics
6. Race supplies to replenish energy along the way
7. A small waterproof pouch for your valuables such as: cash, ID card, bank card, health insurance card, and travel insurance policy. You can leave the rest of your documents and car keys at the hotel during your stay.
8. Emergency survival blanket
9. Toilet paper in a resealable bag to wrap it up and throw it in the nearest available bin

Race food / Snacks:

You must provide your own food for the hike. The nutritional value of the various snacks consumed during the hike should not be overlooked. These snacks can consist of dried fruits (figs, dates, dried apricots, or prunes), cereal bars (feel free to browse the internet for inspiration and homemade recipes – it can be a fun activity during your preparation!), marzipan, quince paste, etc.

For the evening at the accommodation:

Simplify your life by packing only the essentials. For a week of hiking, a few changes of clothes are more than enough. As for toiletries, opt for the essentials, choosing compact sizes, samples, and travel kits, especially if you have to carry your backpack.

Remember that a sleeping bag liner is mandatory as the beds are already equipped with duvets or blankets. Make sure your luggage doesn't exceed 8 kg to facilitate transfers and ensure your comfort throughout your adventure.

Personal pharmacy:

Your first aid kit should be kept to a minimum. In your backpack, only carry your essential personal medications, compresses, elastic bandages, disinfectant, etc.

Adapt your clothing according to the weather and the level of activity. Choose quick-drying clothes, avoid cotton which retains moisture, and opt for materials like wool, silk, and synthetic fibers to stay dry and warm.

For the upper body, adhering to the three-layer principle is essential to guarantee your comfort and safety throughout your journey:

1. Breathable short-sleeved T-shirt: Choose a breathable hollow fiber T-shirt to wick away sweat when you are active.
2. Fleece jacket: This fleece jacket keeps you warm in cool weather by providing extra thermal insulation.
3. Waterproof and breathable windproof jacket (like Gore-Tex or equivalent): This outer layer effectively protects you against inclement weather such as rain, snow or wind, keeping your body dry and sheltered from the elements.

For your lower body, choose trousers designed for winter walking that are warm and incorporate a waterproof membrane such as Gore-Tex or equivalent. Many major retailers offer this type of product, which is perfectly suited to the conditions.

Avoid anoraks and ski suits, which are too hot and bulky.

In addition to the 3 layers, your winter outfit for snowshoeing:

1. 1 down jacket
2. 1 breathable long-sleeved t-shirt
3. 1 beanie
4. 1 pair of warm gloves (bring 1 spare pair)
5. 1 protective cover for the backpack against bad weather (often integrated into the bags)
6. 1 pair of trousers suitable for winter walking incorporating a waterproof membrane (jeans are not allowed as they freeze when wet!)
7. 1 pair of warm underwear or leggings (it can also be used for the evening in the refuge)
8. 2 pairs of hiking socks, high and warm, suitable for walking
9. 1 pair of category 3 to 4 sunglasses