Snowshoeing and Trekking in Chamonix, France

On top of being one of the greenest winter activities, snowshoeing and trekking is probably the best way to explore the wintry wilderness. The beauty of it lies in the fact that you can just strap on and go, wandering out onto fresh snow with nothing but the sound of the snow crunching underfoot for company. This 8-day snowshoeing and trekking holiday based in Les Houches will provide you with ample chance to do just that, all under the watchful eye of Oliver Ensor, recognised mountain leader and owner of the Chalet Savoy, your base for the duration of the trip.

You'll climb to Ayeres des Rocs to gaze out at the largest limestone plateaux in the world, Fiz Mountain, follow a section of the famous Tour du Mont Blanc and visit the Le Chatelet refuge for a sit down and a coffee while looking out over the mighty Mont Blanc. There's also a free day that you can spend as you wish, although we'd recommend trying out one of the many winter activities in the area, from a glacier walk alongside a trained mountain guide to one of the highest cable car rides in Europe at Aiguille du Midi. If you're more in the mood for relaxation, visit the sauna and pool at Chamonix's sports centre. Perhaps the ultimate highlight comes at the end of the tip, when you'll pass through the Berrard Valley and ascend the Loriaz plateau, thus getting to see three countries (France, Italy and Switzerland) all at once!

Here's a brief overview of the itinerary:

• Day 1: Transfer to Les Houches
• Day 2: From Plain Joux, climb to Le Chatelet. Climb to Ayeres des Rocs
• Day 3: Explore the village of Les Contamines and reach the Truc plateau
• Day 4: Reach the Chalets de Chailloux and explore
• Day 5: Free day
• Day 6: Trip to La Charme, descend to the Col de Voza and explore Bionet Valley
• Day 7: Discover Berrard Valley and witness three countries at once
• Day 8: Depart