Discover the art of ski touring - Briançon, Ecrins & La Grave
6 days from 1095 € per participant
Guaranteed departure from 5 people
FRSR602 FALPSR02 
Maximum altitude 3600 m
Stamina level : 2 
Direct train from Paris Pros
- A trip designed to help you discover the art of ski touring
- Expert advice from our mountain guide to help your progress quickly
- A mountain range that gets heaps of sun even in wintertime
- You'll be staying at our lodge, where you can spend some great evenings and meet some new people (single room available as an option)
In a nutshell
Keen to try ski touring ? Come and discover our favourite playground in the Ecrins, get a pleasant dose of physical effort and adrenaline, get lost in contemplation whilst enjoying the pleasure of downhill skiing in virgin snowfields. This trip takes place between the French-Italian border and the mythical Meije. We alternate from days ski touring near the borderline facing the Ecrins glaciers to days with time to train skills in all kinds of snow so you can enjoy uphills as well as descents. The unspoilt and unique environment surrouding you, will convince you that ski touring is THE way to get around and about the mountains in wintertime. In a relaxed atmosphere, this trip is a unique chance to learn the basics and discover the thrills of ski touring, whilst progressing.
We take care of everything from your accomodation to your gear, without omitting the best places for ski touring in the backcountry... Just enjoy, no more no less !
Our lodge: a cosy simple hotel, nestled in the Col d'Izoard valley, in a wild, unspoilt setting. The lodge is mainly dedicated to skiing and mountain biking, with the workshop and stock of equipment just below, the Azimut agency and all the staff not far away (not far from the bar either). The large room downstairs is perfect for chilling out, having a drink by the fireplace or spending a day relaxing in the lounge areas in the sunshine. The cuisine is simple, as local as possible and delicious. Welcome and service are our obsession: you'll be in good hands, trust us... So much so that going home will seem complicated.
The best thing to do when it's snowing: enjoy a glass of white wine with a platter of charcuterie and cheese on the terrace between the river and the lodge, next to the spruce tree.
Day to day
Day 1 - Warm up
Pick up at Briançon train station, from where we head off in the minibus.
Please be wearing your ski outfit upon arrival.
We meet up with our guide and off to Clavière (Italy) or Montgenèvre ski area, on the France-Italy border. On our first day together, we take it easy. Handing out gear may take some time, but don't worry, we'll make up for it, today and the coming days. On and off-piste sessions enable us to warm up and get back into skiing.
This first day is dedicated to off-piste skiing in the resort to get into the swing of things: assessing everyone's level, learning and/or revising safety techniques, and a short ascent in skins to start to see how things work. No pressure, just getting to know each other. At the end of the afternoon, we transfer to the little village of Cervières, to our lodge (depending on conditions and ability, we can even ski straight down to our lodge!), right next to the agency and all the equipment, where we settle in for the next few days. The welcome is incredible, the evenings by the fire are endless and the encounters unforgettable. Just relax!
Ascent/descent: + 50 m / - 1500 m
Meals included: picnic and dinner
Accommodation included: gîte
Day 2 - Skiing below Arpelin, the summit of the coinc
An ideal hike with a gentle start in larch forests. As we leave the forest, a superb view awaits us of Arpelin, Côtebelle and Rochebrune. The atmosphere here is unique! Climb to Col Perdu for a breathtaking panorama. You can also climb to the summit of Arpelin, 120m higher.
Ascent/descent: +/- 700 m
Meals included: breakfast, picnic and dinner
Accommodation included: gîte
Day 3 - Aiguillette du Lauzet
We have a short transfer to get the Pont de L’Alpe on the other side of the Lautaret pass. This is one of the local classics and favorites, with different options and room for everyone. We set off for the Aiguillette du Lauzet mountain pass (2537 m) at the foot of the impressive Tour de l'Aiguillette du Lauzet. The descent is like a sweet stand on the market: there something for everyone's taste: all difficulties, easy slopes, plenty of powder or nicely transformed springtime snow, we can criss cross the mountain slopes wherever we feel like ! After a great day's skiing, let's head over to the hot springs at Les Bains de Monêtier (swimming baths, hot springs and spa), just a stone’s throw away to chill out after a hard day’s skiing.
Ascent/descent: +/- 800 m
Meals included: breakfast, picnic and dinner
Accommodation included: gîte
Day 4 - Off piste special - La Grave
We take off for the famous cable cars at La Grave. Today is off piste skiing special in all different kinds of snow and possibly glacier skiing, weather permitting. La Grave is a world famous off-piste mecca where you'll be able to experience some of the "must be done" itineraries. If the cable cars are closed, as they often are before Christmas, then we go skiing at some neighbouring ski area.
Meals included: breakfast, picnic and dinner
Accommodation included: gîte
Day 5 - Col des Ourdeis (2421m)
This morning, we're staying home! We're off into the large, sunny valleys to the right of the Col d'Izoard. It's a magnificent place, with vast slopes for free skiing on the way down! Once you reach the summit, you'll be able to appreciate the views over the Queyras massif. Descend and chill out on the terrace at the Lodge.
Ascent/descent: +/- 700 m
Meals included: breakfast, picnic and dinner
Accommodation included: gîte
Day 6 - Col de Serre Chevalier (2350m)
Departure for the village of Puy Chalvin, set against the backdrop of the Ecrins. We climb up the Combes valley into the Partias nature reserve, before reaching the Col de Serre Chevalier, where a gigantic view awaits us. This spot is often sheltered from the wind, making it the perfect place to enjoy a picnic. Separation in the late afternoon, at Briançon and Oulx-Cesana.
Ascent/descent: + 700 m / - 900 m
Meals included: breakfast and picnic
Please note this itinerary is an example of a ski touring course in the Ecrins and La Grave. The guide may adjust certain itineraries and ski areas according to weather and snow conditions as well as participants' abilities. We kindly ask you to respect such decision. Ski touring may take place in France and Italy. We may also change accommodation, maintaining the same standards, according to logistics and availabilities.
Meeting and leaving
Meeting points
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Briançon in front of the Train Station
Meeting time: 8:30 am
Leaving time: in the afternoon, at the same meeting place
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Cervières - in front of our Lodge Le Petit Cerf
Meeting time: 8:10 am
Leaving time: in the afternoon, at the same meeting place
Get together - practical information
Arrival and departure
Please be wearing your ski outfit upon arrival.
Azimut is not responsible for the loss of transport tickets in the event of delays. 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 or just in front of our accomodation (both unattended).
Group size
5 to 8 participants
Guiding
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.
Getting around
Azimut's minibus is used throughout the whole trip. Not only does this make the trip easier, but it also makes it more pleasant and open: we can chat, sleep and listen to our own music !
Daypack
Bring a small day pack large enough to carry your personal belongings for the day such as (extra) layers, a few snacks, your picnic and security equipment. We strongly recommend that you wear an airbag (we rent some if you need).
Ski lifts
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.
How technical does it get ? How fit should I be ?
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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 300 to 1000 metres per day.
Good to know: if you don't have the required level, the guide might ask you to leave the group for your own safety, that of the group or the well being of the group as a whole. don't hesitate to ask us if you have any doubts!
Pricing and insurance
Price
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
- Quality cereal bars
- 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”
Payment
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 due latest 30 days prior to departure.
Insurance
We strongly recommend you to be properly insured for the chosen activity. You should be covered for medical expenses, personal accident & liabilité, third party risks and rescue (helicopter), as well as trip cancellation or curtailment.
Repatriation and research insurance 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
Tipping is no obligation. However participants usually hand round an envelope for those who wish to tip the guide.
Phone & WiFi
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 available in the common areas.
Poor mobile & 4G coverage.
Accommodation & meals
During the trip
This trip takes place in our Lodge nestled in the village of Cervières at the foot of the Col d'Izoard. The welcome is exceptional, and the living space has been designed to allow you to spend some quality time in peace and quiet. The food is simple, natural and of high quality, with a choice of good beers and wines. Rental equipment is located under the hotel, and our agency and team are just a stone's throw away.
For this stay, you are in a shared room (maximum of 3 people) with shared WC + showers on the landing (bed linen provided, towels supplied).
Depending on the composition of the group, you may be with someone of the opposite sex.
- Hotel single room supplement: €195/person
- Hotel double room supplement: €100/person
Breakfasts and dinners are taken at the lodge, picnics at lunchtime, our picnics are made up of quality produce, cold meats, bread, cheese, a bar of chocolate, fruit or dried fruit, seeds.
Snacks: Details are important, especially during exercise. We have chosen to provide tasty, high-quality cereal bars.
Depending on the configuration of the group and availability, we may use a triple room.
If the lodge is unavailable, the trip will take place in a comfortable gîte in the area.
For double or single room options, please ask us directly!
Before & after ski touring trips
As soon as you register, we'll send you the contact details of the Lodge so that you can book a night before or after your trip.
Equipment - clothing & gear
Make sure to wear bright colours, it's good for the soul and gives 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
- 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 32 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):
|
|
|
|
Full Pack (ski, boots, skins, ski-crampons, poles) |
235€ |
|
Skis (skis, skins, poles, ski-crampons) |
210€ |
|
Airbag Backpack |
75€ |
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 (strongly 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 !
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 / Crocs recommended for evening wear.
Odds & ends
- a 1 litre flask (Thermos or Camelback)
- a pocket knife
- duck tape
- factor 50 suncream
- a duffle bag holding up to 110 litres to leave at the hotel or in a vehicle. No suitcases.
Toiletries and first aid kit
- Personal toilet bag
- To make up a first aid kit, please find all relevant information on the Ifremmont website.
In partnership with
Our guides use the following brands for their gear and you'll have the opportunity to test them during the trip:
And last but not least...
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 European health card (EU member states) -
- 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
- 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 !