Ski Touring in the Grand Massif

Looking to explore beyond the Grand Massif’s beautifully groomed pistes? Do you picture yourself discovering new routes and exploring further afield in the mountain environment?  Are you yearning for first tracks in untouched snow?

Ski touring might be the answer! Here are  3 reasons why you should give it a try :

Skiing in the back country is the perfect way to reach untracked areas

Have you ever seen seemingly inaccessible, untracked slopes and thought it would be amazing to be the first to ski down that slope?  Ski touring offers the answer!  These days, you don’t need to book a heliskiing trip; you can trust one of ZigZag’s expert Guides or Instructors to accompany you onto beautiful untracked slopes (including those that you never knew existed)!   Just grab your skins and skis, book a local expert and get out there.  Your up-hill efforts will be well rewarded with fresh tracks on the way back down.

Overnight activity

One of the great things about Ski Touring is that you aren’t limited by usual lift opening hours.  Ski Tourers can head out early in the morning or late in the evening.  There’s no feeling quite like skiing under a beautiful sky full of stars over fields of moonlit snow!

It’s a great work out !

The basic principle of Ski Touring involves climbing uphill under your own steam in order to enjoy an untouched off piste descent as your reward.  It means you have to get the cardio working!  Ski Touring requires you to earn your downhill turns with the pure strength of your legs and arms.  On the way up, you’re likely to shed your outer jacket while your body is warming up with the effort you have to put in.  Once you reach the top, you’ll feel great and you’ll know you’ve earned those turns on the way back down.  If you’re looking for a workout, there is nothing like it!

Get away from the crowds

The best thing about ski touring?  You’ll get go to ski in an area that very few people can access, which means no more lift queues! Ski touring allows you to enter a quiet and peaceful environment in which the silence and beauty of the alpine wilderness offers a serene new ski experience.

How can I go ski touring in the Grand Massif?

If you are new to ski touring (or just new to the area), the best way to tour in the Grand Massif will be with a qualified Guide.  A High Mountain Guide or a certified French ski instructor will be able to Guide and instruct you in order to enhance your ski touring adventure; whatever your level of ability or experience.

If you do not know the area well and you want to enjoy ski touring safely, with expert guidance in regard to itineraries, snow conditions, weather conditions and routes, then the best way to do it is in the company of a qualified local Guide.  The mountains of the Grand Massif hold no secrets for our ski instructors and High Mountain Guides, who know where conditions are best to ski, and where it is safe to go.

Whatever your level, there are ski touring routes available to suit your style. If you want to have lunch in a restaurant near the pistes or maybe spend the night in a refuge, our guides will arrange it for you to ensure you the best experience possible on the mountains.  Avalanche kit will be provided to ensure your safety and your Guide will also be on hand to assist with equipment hire for you if required.

Book a professional Guide for your next ski touring session for a half day, a full day – or even for multiple days, with a night in a mountain hut!

To book your next ski touring experience in the Grand Massif, simply contact us at the ZigZag booking office by telephone on +33631204410 or via the button below.