Snowshoeing holidays in the Alps

Snowshoeing - Western Alps

8 Days Introduction to Snowshoeing based in Zinal

Snowshoeing is a relatively unknown activity and offers the perfect way to get deep into the beautiful winter mountains that can be accessible to everyone with a little training.

The Western Alps have a multitude of wild valleys, frozen lakes and rolling ridges many benefitting from the proximity of high ski roads which provide easy access to deep snow.

In this environment it is impossible to walk in the Alps; however, a winter wonderland awaits those who are equipped to walk the hills on snowshoes where previously rough terrain is rendered smooth and you have the pleasure of travelling on virgin snow.

On snowshoes you will discover a fabulous winter world, whether it is in the forests during heavy snowfall where the silence is palpable, or on high summits in the sunshine when the blanket of snow gives the glaciated peaks a glistening beauty: In winter the landscape offers tranquillity and solitude and you can experience the pleasure of cold, clear alpine air, whilst enjoying the satisfaction of completing a winter alpine walk.

High in a remote valley deep in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Zinal is a charming low-key resort blanketed in snow from December to April. High altitude glaciated peaks circle the valley and the views are as reminiscent of a Himalayan vista as they are Alpine.

From the door of our comfortable 3 star hotel we have numerous snowshoe walks available to us and using the excellent local bus service we can explore further a field to find the best snow and routes to suit you and your group. On the free day the nearby thermal baths are perfect cure for tired legs. Alternatively if you are still brimming with energy why not try skiing on the slopes above.

Using experienced guides, we offer introductory snowshoeing trips based in the Dolomites and Western Alps where you can make fresh tracks in the snow and find a perfect wilderness away from the bustle of the ski resort and busy mountain trails.


Our Snowshoeing routes are graded to suit beginners as follows:

Grade 1 An easy walk, usually half a day, with no steep slopes or associated difficulties.
Grade 2 Full day walk, quite long with an amount of height gain, but few technical difficulties.
Grade 3 Some steeper slopes, maybe some traverses, route-finding and considerable height gain.

For this holiday you will require the following clothing:

Clothing / footwear Other useful items
   
  • Sturdy, waterproof walking boots
  • Day rucksack (around 30 litres)
  • Warm walking socks
  • Sun block and lip balm (Factor 25+)
  • Comfortable walking trousers/leggings
  • Personal first aid kit
  • Synthentic base layer
  • Water bottle
  • Warm jumper or fleece
  • Walking poles
  • Thermal underwear
  • Ski goggles
  • Waterproof jacket
 
  • Waterproof trousers
 
  • Gaiters
 
  • Sun hat/peaked cap
 
  • Sunglasses
 
  • Woolly hat, scarf and waterproof gloves
 
  • Swimming costume (for thermal baths)
 

What's included

  • An experienced qualified guide
  • Hotel accommodation - half board
  • Snowshoes
  • All local road transport
  • Discount outdoor clothing voucher for Cotswold Outdoor and Montane

What's not included

  • Flights
  • Transfer by local train and bus to/from Geneva Airport
  • Personal expenses, lunch, daytime snacks and drinks
  • Travel insurance

ITINERARY

Day 1 Fly to Geneva and transfer by local train and bus to your hotel in Zinal
Day 2 Introduction to snowshoeing - an interesting day where you will discover snow safety and snowshoeing techniques and have a short session on the snow.
Day 3 Full day's snowshoeing
Day 4 Full day's snowshoeing
Day 5 Free day - Thermal Baths in St Luc
Day 6 Full day's snowshoeing
Day 7 Full day's snowshoeing
Day 8 Depart after breakfast for transfer by local train and bus to airport

RESERVATIONS

Availability Western Alps: December to April / Dolomites: December, January and March
Spaces 12
Reservations Please call or email to check latest availability
Comments A superb way to get to know the mountains at a relaxing pace. These holidays provide an exhilarating experience in a high mountain setting which is ideal for families with active teenagers ((over 14 yrs) and adult groups from beginner to intermediate level.
 

INFORMATION

  • Suitability: Adults and over 14's

  • Difficulty: Moderate

  • Group size: 6-12

DATES AND PRICES

December to April: €996 to €1059

Snowshoe tracks in virgin snow

Snowshoe group trekking in the Alps

Snowshoeing holidays

Snowshoeing forest trails

Snowshoeing in the Western Alps

Snowshoeing in the Alps