Snowshoeing immersion in the heart of the snow-covered Swiss Jura
In summary
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Sports
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Duration3 days
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LevelConfirmed
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DestinationBurgundy-Franche-Comté / Jura
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AgeFrom the age of 18
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CO₂-Emissions13.82 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
English
In a few words
This snowshoeing trip offers three days of winter immersion near Les Rousses, in the heart of the Swiss Jura . From the moment you arrive, the scenery is breathtaking: vast snow-covered plateaus , silent forests , and gentle hills sculpted by the winds and pastoral traditions. Here, winter reveals its purest form in a luminous Nordic atmosphere, sometimes reminiscent of Lapland .
Often traversing above 1,400 meters in altitude , the route generally benefits from abundant snow cover , offering ideal conditions for snowshoeing. With each step, the feeling of being in a completely different world intensifies. The Jura crêts , long, rounded ridges typical of the massif, create a soothing horizon and invite contemplation.
The journey unfolds at nature's pace: gentle ascents, soft descents, changing light, and absolute silence . Snowshoeing in these unspoiled landscapes is about reconnecting with slowness , savoring the present moment, and experiencing a true escape into pristine nature in the heart of winter.
The highlights
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Breathtaking panoramas from the ridges connecting to the summit of Mont Tendre
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Authentic mountain refuges where the mountain atmosphere reigns
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A small group of a maximum of 8 people
Photos
Sport
Level
Snowshoeing
In figures
Snowshoes
- Average duration/day: 7h
- Average distance/day: 14 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 324 m
- Average daily descent: 320 m
Management
French
English
From a very young age, I discovered the joys of the mountains, and I quickly knew that my place was where they allowed me to gain a new perspective. From a passion, the mountains became the guiding thread of a career rich in discoveries and unexpected turns. My time in the mountain troops and the gendarmerie allowed me to acquire a thorough knowledge of the Alps and the Pyrenees, and later, the Jura Mountains, where I eventually settled. Earning my State Diploma as a Mountain Guide (AEM) in 2012 allows me to now fully live my passion and share my experience with you.
For over 13 years now, I've had the privilege of leading trips in regions as diverse as Morocco, the Arctic, and the Antarctic—extreme environments that I truly appreciate. Today, I primarily work in the Alps and the Jura Mountains as a guide. I'm not a smuggler, but I like to think of myself (and us) as guides of history, culture, and the environment. Through a variety of activities, from day hikes to multi-day treks, whether self-supported or staying in guesthouses or mountain huts, to bivouacking, wildlife observation, impromptu fondue dinners in cabins, sledding, orienteering, and much more, I love sharing my passion with you. It's in these multifaceted mountains that I invite you to join me.
Program
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The thatched cottages – Tender mountain – Cunay hut
- Activity Snowshoes
- Duration of the activity 7h
- Distance 11 km
- Positive elevation gain 450 m
- Negative elevation 190 m
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
We'll meet at 9am in Bois d'Amont, near the Tourist Office, before heading towards the Marchairuz pass in Switzerland, a 20-minute drive away. We'll have a briefing and check our equipment before starting our trek.
The vast open spaces of the Swiss Jura evoke a sense of Lapland. A feeling of freedom is guaranteed!
The goal is to climb Mont Tendre, the highest point in the Swiss Jura (1679 m)! From up there, there is an unobstructed view extending over the Alps and the entire Jura mountain range.
We will then continue our journey towards the Cunay cabin, a secluded refuge nestled in the heart of the mountains. Its location facing the Alps and its atmosphere make it an ideal haven of peace.
Day 1 -
Cunay hut - Marcahairuz pass - Pralets refuge
- Activity Snowshoes
- Duration of the activity 7h
- Distance 15 km
- Positive elevation gain 150 m
- Negative elevation 460 m
- Accommodation Refuge
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After a good night's sleep, the longest day of the year awaits us. We begin our route with a gradual descent to the Col du Marchairuz (1447 m), before plunging into the Combe des Amburnex, a true geological masterpiece. It is one of the longest and most majestic valleys in the Jura Mountains, alternating between open landscapes and shaded areas with majestic spruce trees.
We'll wait until we reach the Neuve alpine pasture before descending to the Refuge des Pralets, an authentic Jura mountain chalet. A friendly atmosphere awaits us there, ideal for enjoying a good meal!
Day 2 -
Refuge des Pralets - Mont Salaa - Combe des Amburnex - Les Chaumilles
- Activity Snowshoes
- Duration of the activity 7h
- Distance 14 km
- Positive elevation gain 370 m
- Negative elevation 310 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
For this final day, we'll head towards the Combe des Bégnines at almost 1500m altitude. It's a perched syncline, a vast grazing area in summer that takes on a far north feel in winter. The walk is pleasant until you reach the view of Geneva and the Chalet à Roch, an area of alpine chalets.
Last picnic in the great outdoors.
The Sèche des Amburnex awaits us before a very short climb back to our starting point.
Day 3
Accommodation
Cunay Hut
Pralets Refuge
Access
Go to the starting point
- From Morez train station, take a taxi or local bus to Bois-d'Amont (approximately a 15-20 minute drive).
Price details
The price includes
- The trip will be led by an experienced and passionate mountain guide.
- Accommodation in unguarded cabins and mountain huts (overnight stay in dormitories)
- Dinner on Day 1 and picnic on Day 3
The price does not include
- Transportation to the meeting point
- Personal expenses and drinks at the guesthouse
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
- In case of minor injuries (your guide will also have a group first-aid kit, please note that no medication will be provided by the guide)
Equipment to bring
Clothing for hiking:
- 1 sun hat or cap,
- 1 BUFF-type multifunctional beanie or neck warmer
- 1 pair of lightweight gloves to protect against the cold at altitude,
- 1 short-sleeved t-shirt suitable for exertion (synthetic or natural microfiber type),
- 1 insulating garment type: fleece or down jacket,
- 1 waterproof and breathable windproof jacket with a hood if possible (Gore-Tex type or equivalent), or 1 rain poncho
- 1 protective cover for the backpack against bad weather (often integrated into the bags),
- 1 pair of loose-fitting trekking trousers, or 1 pair of shorts or bermudas suitable for walking.
- 1 pair of hiking socks.
- 1 pair of hiking shoes that provide good ankle support and are waterproof, with Vibram-type soles. Remember to "test" new shoes and those that have not been used for a long time beforehand (low shoes are not recommended).
The essentials:
- One backpack of at least 45 liters with a reinforced frame and a hip belt. Please note: choosing the right backpack is crucial! To avoid back pain and fully enjoy your trip, it must be suited to your body type and the weight you will be carrying. Backpack rental available (€5).
- 2 telescopic poles, available for loan
- 1 large plastic bag to protect the inside of the backpack,
- 1 pair of category 3 sunglasses,
- 1 water bottle (allow 1L to 1.5L/person) or hydration bladder such as a CamelBak with a drinking tube,
- Race food, and snacks for breaks…
- 1 small pouch (preferably waterproof) to put your money, identity card, bank card, health insurance card, assistance contract (the rest of your papers and car key can be left at the hotel during your stay),
- 1 survival blanket,
- Toilet paper with a zip-lock bag to put it in.
- Sunscreen without nanomaterials, SPF 4.
- 1 headlamp,
- A whistle, to hang on the strap of your backpack.
Change of clothes:
- 2 changes of underwear.
- 2 pairs of socks
- 1 short-sleeved t-shirt, 1 long-sleeved t-shirt
- 1 pair of trousers or shorts
Your toilet:
- The essentials you'll need: keep them to an absolute minimum! A toothbrush, an open tube of toothpaste (or better yet, your homemade biodegradable toothpaste), a bar of soap (like Marseille soap) or a tube of liquid soap, a small microfiber towel, a washcloth. Two clothespins
In case:
- Earplugs if you are a light sleeper (or in case of snorers!),
- Your prescribed medications (see your prescription)
- Pain medication: paracetamol preferably,
- Elastic adhesive tape, Elastoplast type, 8 cm wide.
- Sets of adhesive bandages + disinfectant compresses, Double Skin (Compeed or SOS Blister type)
Clothing to bring
REQUIRED EQUIPMENT
- An airtight container for picnics
- Silk cloth
- Your knife, fork, spoon
If you have your own equipment and would like to bring it, please let us know.
