Self-guided winter hiking in the Vercors

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.

Snowshoes and poles not provided: rental possible, see options.

You can also plan to bring small "forest crampons" for days/periods when there is less snow cover.

In your bag for the day:

1. 1 small backpack (35 to 40 L) equipped with a waist belt, which must allow the snowshoes to be attached to the bag.
2. "Forest hiking crampons".
3. 1 thermos or a water bottle, preferably insulated (2 litres minimum).
4. Picnic supplies (reservation required): 1 pocket knife, 1 fork-spoon.
5. Race snacks (because being outdoors can make you a little hungry, don't hesitate to bring: energy bars, dried fruit or a few squares of chocolate for those with a sweet tooth).
6. 1 small pouch (preferably waterproof) to put your identity card, health insurance card and assistance contract received when you registered if you took out this insurance or that of your personal insurance.
7. 1 personal first aid kit (see complete kit suggestion below)
8. 1 pack of tissues
9. 1 pair of sunglasses + sunscreen.
10. A scarf or a "buff" (neck warmer) provides a solution for all situations to cover the neck and head, whether it is hot or cold.
11. 1 beanie
12. 1 pair of gloves + 1 additional pair of spare gloves.
13. Optionally: a rain cover (to protect it from snow) + 1 sturdy plastic bag (to protect the inside) + 1 headlamp or flashlight + 1 survival blanket.

Understanding the mountain environment and its unpredictable weather, which can quickly shift from one extreme to the other, is important. Being well-equipped will allow you to enjoy your holiday even more!

Clothing, the principles :

For both your upper and lower body, opt for layering. This means wearing several layers of clothing that you can add or remove depending on the temperature and activity level. For example:

1. A thermal undershirt with short or long sleeves made of breathable material (hollow fiber).
2. A warm fleece jacket or a down jacket.
3. A windproof, waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex type jacket.

When hiking in calm, sunny weather, a base layer may suffice. In rainy or windy conditions, a waterproof jacket or rain poncho is recommended. In all seasons, especially in the mountains where it can get cold, or during breaks, a fleece or down jacket is essential. Don't neglect your lower body. The "layering" principle also applies: trousers + over-trousers, or tights + trousers.

Choose clothes that dry quickly , so avoid cotton. Opt for synthetic fibers that will keep you dry and warm for as long as possible.

Remember to dress warmly before you get cold , but especially to remove layers before you get too hot . Sweat is a hiker's enemy, as it dampens clothing that quickly becomes icy during breaks. Therefore, it's very rare to undertake a climb wearing a fleece jacket.

Avoid ski suits, which are too warm and bulky.

Your complete luggage:

1. 2 short-sleeved t-shirts made of breathable material.
2. 1 long-sleeved undershirt made of breathable material.
3. 1 fleece jacket or 1 down jacket.
4. 1 waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex type windproof jacket with hood.
5. 1 rain cape or a bivvy bag if you own the jacket above.
6. 1 pair of soft, thermal, comfortable and water-repellent trekking or outdoor trousers. Alpine ski trousers are not recommended.
7. 1 pair of waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex type overtrousers.
8. Hiking socks. Opt for wool or specific hiking socks like terry cloth, which will prevent your feet from overheating prematurely. Be careful with cotton, as it can cause blisters.
9. One pair of hiking boots in good condition, with high-top ankle support and waterproofing , with Vibram-type soles. Remember to "test" new boots and those that haven't been used for a long time beforehand (check in particular if the sole glue is still holding and re-waterproof them).
10. 1 pair of lightweight casual shoes for the evening.
11. 1 comfortable outfit for the evening.
12. 1 pair of gaiters. If your trousers have "gussets", this is not necessary.
13. 1 swimsuit + 1 bath towel for the wellness area. In the room, you will find a bath towel for the shower.
14. Toiletries (opt for the essentials, small sizes and travel kits).
15. Earplugs or ear pads (optional).
16. If you wear prescription glasses, remember to bring a spare pair.

Suggestions for a personal first aid kit:

1. Your usual medications.
2. Pain medication: paracetamol preferred.
3. Lozenges for sore throats.
4. Elastic adhesive strip, Elastoplast type, 8 cm wide.
5. Sets of adhesive bandages + disinfectant compresses.
6. Double skin (like Compeed or SOS blisters).
7. Vitamin C.
8. 1 pair of tweezers.
9. Hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes.

And then:

1. Board games if you're into that sort of thing.
2. And if you are a musician, feel free to bring your instrument of choice or your sheet music, the house piano is waiting for you.