After the exceptional snowfall of the last few days we decided to venture out and check-out what is normally a reasonably well trodden trail! 

Much to our surprise (and delight) there was only one set of tracks ahead of us which meant that for the majority of the hike we were making fresh tracks, however, as our heart-rate rose quickly to over 150bpm we realised that 40cm of powder really was better suited to snowshoes than just normal walking boots!

The amount of snow in the trees was unbelievable. In many cases the weight of the snow had caused trees to bend and contort into fantastic shapes. Whilst it was a truly magical scene, it was also a little eerie listening to the creaking of straining boughs followed a couple of seconds later by the “whomph” as a tree released the pressure, dumping the snow in a mini-avalanche. 

Given the conditions we didn’t make it as far as we’d hoped, so a beer at the Refuge de la Golèse will have to wait until another time but we were very thankful to the owners of the chalet d’alpage where we found a sheltered bench for a well deserved and much needed picnic lunch!

If you’ve ever wondered about mixing-up your next winter holiday with something a little different then we hope you might be inspired to try snowshoeing . . .   although just remember to actually take your snowshoes  

We work with a few amazing local guides who will be able to see to all your needs (equipment, transport, warming tea) as well as show you some hidden gems around the mountains of the Vallée du Giffre.