Snowshoeing in Chamonix, Mont Blanc

This is an ideal trip for those who enjoy taking long walks in the mountains and who also want to experience one of Europe's most magical Winter destinations. You don't necessarily need any previous experience to take part in the trip, but you'll need a decent level of fitness and a readiness to snowshoe off-piste.

Using the beautiful and famous Chamonix Valley in the French Alps as your base, you'll set out to explore the deep valleys and snowy peaks in the Mont Blanc Massif, always with the stunning Mont Blanc in the background. You'll also be only 30 minutes from both Switzerland and Italy so there's also the chance to explore several different cultures.

A fantastic snowshoe week for beginners, complete with a night in the famous Grand St Bernard Monestary!

Minimum numbers: The trip requires a minimum of 4 clients to run and we will take a maximum of 8 clients.

Day 1
Arrival in Chamonix Valley

Day 2
Introduction - Chalets de Chailloux
We aim to spend the day enjoying a walk with views of the Mont Blanc Massif from the Chalets de Chailloux, a fabulous vantage point that gives superb views of the Chamonix Valley and glaciers. If we have time we plan to spend a little time in Chamonix itself before heading back to our accommodation. Ascent 570m.

Day 3
Loriaz, Vallorcine
Chalet Loriaz is above the hamlet of Vallorcine. The Vallorcine valley, which means ‘valley of the bears', used to easily be cut off during the winter months due to it's access being two mountain passes. Unfortunately because the locals used to pay their taxes in bear meat there are none left today! Ascent 700m.

Day 4 Mont de l'Arpille, Switzerland
We head up initially through pine woods, watch out for squirrels and roe deer, and then into more open ground as we arrive at the alpage. We then head for the summit which offers incredible panoramas of Mont Blanc, the Dents du Midi, and the Rhône Valley. Ascent 770m.

Day 5 Tête de la Sallaz
After leaving the tiny ski area of Romme we head up through the pine forests before emerging to wonderful views of the region. The forests are magical in fresh snow, a real winter wonderland. Our goal is the summit of the Tête de la Sallaz, which offers a stunning panorama. Ascent 700m.

Day 6 Grand St Bernard Monastery
We head off today for our overnight stay in the famous Grand St Bernard Monastery which sits on an historic high pass at 2469m. The Monastery is isolated in winter, and can only be accessed by snowshoes or on skis making it a very special experience. This area is steeped in history and we follow in the footsteps of Hannibal, and Napoleon as we climb its snowy slopes. Ascent 900 metres.

Day 7 Grand St Bernard Monastery
Today we plan to soak up the atmosphere of this high pass, and explore the area around the Monastery. Tonight we return to our chalet in Argentiere. Ascent approx 600 - 800 metres.

Day 8 Departure

What's not included

• Insurance
• Lunches and drinks
• Any lift passes