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7 days from 1645 € per participant
Guaranteed departure from 4 people
When the skiing season starts many feel called to ski the mythic path that connects Chamonix to Zermatt: you hear a little voice in your head that says “get up here!” The problem is, is that it seems that lots of people hear that same voice in their head every year. That's why, here at Azimut we've been working on something a bit special, let's call it: “Chamonix to Zermatt redux”. That's right, we wanted you to experience this mythic environment with all the tranquillity that it deserve. But, we've got something else up are sleeve, instead of opting for a classic itinerary we've decided to turn it up to 11 and go rock 'n' roll! We'll take you skiing in some stunning, and accessible corridors, and snow white slopes that are little-known by the crowds. After all, why take the highway when you can take a country lane? If you're looking for something truly authentic, then you've found it! 7 days to go to Mont Blanc to Cervin via our homemade route, guaranteed additive free!
- A Chamonix to Zermatt that breaks the mould and puts the emphasis on downhill sking
- An incredibly varied itinerary
- Stunning panoramas between the glaciers and summits
- Easy Access: We meet up and go our seprate ways in the same place
- Stress free: we take care of everything!
- No extra administrative fees
Meet up with the guide, we’ll check the equipment then head to the cable cars at the the Grands Montets. Descent onto the Argentière glacier then a climb up to the Chardonnet pass to reach the Saleina Hostel (2693m).
A great way to start the trip!
Altitude difference: + 900 / -1300m
Meals included: pick-nick, dinner
Lodgings included: hostel
Departure for the le col de la Planereuse (3030m). Descent onto the glacier of the same name and ascent to the col de Crete Sèche (3024m) before crossing to the col des Essettes (3110m). Another long descent into the charming village of La Fouly. A stunning and unspoilt mountain experience awaits. Another short climb to the col de crête Sèche and a descent to the beautiful refuge of the A Neuve. The 1700m of descent onto the Fouly are superb. The village is charming and very Swiss ...
Altitude difference: + 800 / -1800m
Meals included: breakfast pick-nick, dinner
Lodgings included: hostel
Climb down Val Ferret to reach les lacs de Fenêtre (2495m) to reach the col of the same name (2695m). A descent before going back to the l'hospice du grand St Bernard (2460m). A mountain route that is not often frequented. The arrival at the hostel is superb. The place is amazing and the welcome warm.
Altitude difference: + 1100 / -700
Meals included: breakfast pick-nick, dinner
Lodgings included: hostel
The day begins with a descent under the Swiss col (2200m), mounted by the plane Tcholeire to the south col de Menouve (2756m), descent into the village of Eternon (1280m). Taxi to the village of Bionaz then climb to the charming refuge de la Crete Sèche (2385m). Stage mainly Italian and little attended. The downhill slopes at Menouve is very beautiful. The arrival in the village allows a good hot meal at the hostel (included in the price) and to drink a good cappuccino before climbing back up the Crete Sèche (1h30 / 2h) ...
Altitude difference: + 1300 / -1800m
Meals included: breakfast lunch, dinner
Lodgings included: hostel
Ascent to the Col de Crète Sèche (2896m), possible climb of the Col de Chardonay (3183m). Descent onto the northern valley of the col to the foot of the Ottemma glacier. Short cable car ride to the cabin of Chanrion (2460m). Beautiful views of the Valais mountains.
Altitude difference: + 800 / -800m
Meals included: breakfast pick-nick, dinner
Lodgings included: hostel
Descent onto the cabin Vignettes (3160m). The Pigne d'Arolla is a superb belvedere with views over the whole Valais. We’ll take the path right to the end as it is truly stunning…
Altitude difference: 1300m / -650m
Meals included: breakfast pick-nick, dinner
Lodgings included: hostel
Breakfast before heading for Zermatt: descent on the neck of Charmotane (3024m), climb to the pass of the Evèque (3370m), descent on the high glacier of Arolla then climb to the neck of Mt Brulé ( 3213m). Crossing to the Valpeline pass (3554m) by Tsan glacier Tsan to finally undertake the beautiful and long descent to Zermatt (1690m) at the foot of the north face of the Matterhorn. (climb, about 1000m for almost 2000m of descent.
Altitude difference: 1300m / -650m
Meals included: breakfast pick-nick,
Please note: This itinerary is an example of a mountaineering trip with Azimuth and should only be used as a guide: the weather the conditions on the mountain or the competence of the participants could mean that the guide changes the itinerary, the order of the expeditions or their settings.
Please be wearing your ski outfit upon arrival.
The last day, we try to get back to Oulx by 5 pm to catch the TGV, but we cannot guarantee this (weather, traffic). We recommend you to get tickets that can be changed.
Getting there
Train & TGV access: www.voyages-sncf.com
Car access : www.mappy.fr
Car pooling: www.blablacar.fr
Parking
Free public parking can be found in Briançon and Oulx (both unattended) or just in front of our accomodation.
Skill level
The slopes may have some short steep sections. You should be at ease with ski touring techniques and skiing on all types of snow. We may also ski on glacier terrain. You should master uphill kick turns without hesitation.
Stamina level
Good physical condition is required, some uphill sections may have to be done on foot. Ascents and descents vary from 800 to 1000 metres per day.
Good to know: if you don't have the level required, the guide may ask you to leave for the well-being of the rest of the group if necessary. If any doubt, please do not hesitate to ask us !
5 to 8 participants
Only skiers, sorry no splitboard accepted
Azimut qualified mountain guide.
All our mountain guides are certified. We choose them for their sympathy, their teaching and organisational skills. We stay tuned in, work hands in hands, and make sure their working conditions are the best.
Meet our guides just around the corner.
Bring a small day pack large enough to carry your personal belongings for the day such as (extra) clothing, your picnic, a few snacks and security equipment.
Considering the itinerary may be modified due to mountain and snow conditions, ski lift fares are not included in the price. The definite day to day itinerary will depend on local conditions. Budget approximately € 70 for ski lift fares.
The price includes
- Trip logistics & organisation upon arrival
- Minibus transfers upon arrival from one of the indicated meeting points
- 5 nights accommodation (half-board) and picnics for 6 days
- Safety & rescue equipment training/reviewing
- Certified and expert mountain guide services for 6 days (all the guide's expenses are included: meals, accommodation, transportation, ski lift fares)
- Safety & rescue equipment sets are provided (tracking device, shovel and probe), if you don't have your own gear
- Extra fees for Xmas & New-Year
- AZIMUT welcome pack
The price does not include
- Transportation to/from the meeting point
- Ski lift fares
- Gear rental if required
- Your personal insurance
- Drinks (including those with meals at the hotel), personal extras, and any other expenses not mentioned under the above section “the price includes”
A 30% deposit, as well as the insurance cost if you choose to subscribe the latter, is required to secure your booking. You will receive a reminder email 35 days prior to departure for the outstanding balance that is due latest 30 days prior to departure.
We strongly recommend you to be properly insured for the chosen activity, medical expenses, personal accident & liabilité, third party risks and rescue (helicopter), as well as trip cancellation or curtailment.
Insurance related to repatriation and research are mandatory when booking a trip with Azimut. We have a full range of insurances on offer to suit the trip you select and the risks that it may incur.
Tipping is no obligation. However participants usually hand round an envelope for those who wish to tip the guide.
Azimut's minibus is used throughout the whole trip. Not only does this make the trip easier, but it also makes it more pleasant: we can chat, sleep and listen to our own music !
In case of emergency or delay, you can either contact your guide (a phone number will be provided before departure) or contact Azimut on: (+ 33) 04 92 23 07 24.
Please inform your friends and family with these details before departure.
Wifi is not available.
Poor mobile & 4G coverage.
During the trip
Depending on the size of group, you might end up sharing a room with someone of the opposite sex.
- Half board in a gite, shared showers and toilets. Bed sheets are supplied, towels are not supplied.
- Accommodation is possible in a hotel room in the same building as the gite (with private toilets and bathroom), but is subject to availability. Single supplement: € 140 per person, supplement for a double: € 120 per person
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner: breakfasts and dinners are at the gite, and we provide picnics for lunch. Picnics consist of good quality products: ham, cheese, bread, a chocolate bar and a piece of fruit or a compote.
- Snacks: to boost your energy we've chosen to provide Mulebars, tasty and top quality energy bars, no additives, coloring nor conservatives.
Before & after ski touring trips
Once we've received your booking, we'll provide you with a list of accommodation in case you need to book accommodation before or after the trip. All accommodation on the list is close to the meeting points and you may often benefit from preferential rates.
Make sure to wear bright colours, it's good for the soul and give photos a funky edge !
Skiing material (all in excellent condition)
- Ski touring skis with appropriate bindings. We advise freeride type skis so you can enjoy powdery descents and skiing on all types of snow
- Ski skins
- Ski crampons (i.e. "couteaux")
- Ski poles
- Ski touring boots
- Ice axe
- Harness
- Avalanche kit: transceiver, shovel and probe (please let us know if you have your own, if not we lend them for free)
- Backpack: capacity of 40 liters
Security advice: avalanche airbag backpacks are highly recommended.
They help to stay on the surface in case of avalanche and minimize the risk of burial. Our guides systematically use them and we highly recommend you to opt for high quality and reliable gear. If you don't have an avalanche airbag we rent them out at a very competitive price.
If you don't have the adequate equipment for the trip, don’t worry and travel light: we rent out the required gear and hand it over at the start of the trip ! Our equipment is relatively new, if not brand new, of good quality and adapted to your choice of activity.
Prices of rental equipment during the entire trip (these competitive prices only take into account the number of days of the trip):
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You can choose to rent equipment when booking your trip, or lateron by clicking on “my account”. If any of the equipment that you’ve chosen is out of stock you’ll be notified and reimbursed.
Clothes
This list of clothes is designed to give you an idea of clothes that it may be a good to have with you. By no means do you need to have the latest brands or the latest gear, but if you need to renew your wardrobe, this guide would be a good start.
Headwear
- Warm hat or buff/scarf
- Ski goggles (2 pairs) and sunglasses: UV factory 4 protective lenses. Photochromic glasses adapt to light intensity and are very useful
- Helmet (highly recommended)
Bodywear
- Under layer: breathable long sleeved tops to maintain heat. A tip: merino wool is breathable and has anti-bacterial properties and is therefore less likely to smell as opposed to synthetic fabrics. Take this into consideration if you need to update your wardrobe.
- Middle layer: a light polar or synthetic jacket for an extra layer of heat during breaks
- Outer layer: a Gore-tex or similar type of jacket with a breathable waterproof membrane. Make sure it's lightweight and compact so it doesn't take up too much space in your backpack
- Bottom layer: trousers with a breathable waterproof membrane (Gore Tex or similar) with long side zips allowing air to flow, recommended on climbs
- Hands: light fleece or soft shell gloves, a pair of silk glove liners to go underneath, warm gloves with a breathable and waterproof membrane. Mittens are always a good idea for really cold days of for those of you who feel the cold !
- Swimming gear: it takes up such little space, it would be a shame not to bring it just in case. Avoid swimming shorts or bermudas, they are not usually allowed.
Footwear
- Ski socks: merino wool socks are breathable and have anti-bacterial properties and are less likely to smell as opposed to those made of synthetic fabrics. Think about them if you need to stock up.
- Slippers recommended for evening wear. Try charentaises they’re really comfortable !
Odds & ends
Toiletries and first aid kit
- Personal toilet bag
- To make your a first aid kit, please find all information on Ifremont's website.
If you book a trip with Azimut, you'll get a 10% discount code on your confirmation page that you can use at our friends Glisshop.
Just go straight to glisshop.com ! Established in 1996, our partner stands as a leader for online winter sports equipment. Based in the centre of the volcanoes of Auvergne (France), they help every passionate skier and powder addict to find the gear they need by offering a huge and unique choice of clothing and gear available throughout Europe.
With close to 250 brands and 10 000 items for sale, Glisshop simply is the ideal partner to equip you from head to toe whathever activity may be your preference.
Our guides use the following brands for their gear and you'll have the opportunity to test them during the trip:
Official partner and service provider for Terres d'Aventure
Don't forget to
- Leave contact details with your friends and family
- Bring your papers and I.D. (passport and visa if necessary)
- Bring your contract number and documents related to your insurance (if you've chosen not to have insure coverage with us)
- Bring your “carte vitale” and your European health card (EU member states) - if you don't have one you can order one for free online www.ameli.fr
- Check that you have the right equipment
- Take spare batteries and a charger for your electronic devices (camera, video recorder, tracking devices etc)
- Bring some cash and your credit card
- Bring a delicacy from your home country or area to share with the group
- Leave in a good frame of mind: we're going to have a great time even if we may not happen to not make it to the summit !
- Before leaving: water the plants, empty the rubbish bin, turn off water and gas, and tell your partner that you're going to have a good time (please not by text message), that you've well deserved... If you don't follow the latter recommendation, you'll most probably kick yourself when you get back!
See you on the slopes !
Have great runs with AZIMUT !