What is Lugi'Kart?
🛷The Lugi'Kart is a downhill snow sport that is practiced at La Norma, one of the six resorts of Haute Maurienne Vanoise, along with Bessans, Bonneval, Valfréjus, Val Cenis and Aussois.
It's a sled mounted on a brake-equipped chassis, enabling fluid, controlled gliding on a specially laid-out track. Unlike conventional sleds, the Lugi'Kart offers greater stability and a more precise braking system, making the experience accessible to beginners and thrill-seekers alike.
The activity begins shortly after the ski area closes: first you have to take the gondola up to the start of the run, at an altitude of around 2,000 metres. The 6.5 km descent alternates between tight turns, long straights and technical sections, guaranteeing a perfect blend of adrenalin and fun.
Supervised by an ESF instructor, this activity is both safe and suitable for families and groups of friends. Participants receive a briefing on safety instructions and riding techniques before setting off. The sensation of speed, combined with La Norma's snow-covered landscapes, makes Lugi'Kart a unique and memorable winter experience.
A start at 2000m altitude
It all begins at the end of the day, when the ski area of La Norma taking the path to the the Mélézet gondolawhich takes you up to the starting point, perched at an altitude of over 2000m.
Accompanied by my comrades, helmets and sledges in handwe enjoy a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains, between snow-capped peaks and fir forests.
At the top, an ESF instructor from La Norma (French ski school) welcomes us and explains the essential safety rules for sledding: braking, speed management and, above all, safety instructions.
We were a group of eight people, and some of us had never done this activity before, making these instructions all the more important before the start of the race.
Mario Kart on the snowy slopes
Once settled into our sleds, we were ready to go. The instructor had reminded us of the essential instructions, and one of his team took the lead to show us the ideal trajectory. We had to follow it to stay on course and learn how to handle the sled.
The first few metres allowed us to get our bearings, but very quickly the pace picked up. The track alternated between tight bends and long straights where we could pick up speed. The excitement grew as we went deeper into the forest, with a unique sensation of gliding through the snow-covered mountains.
But the descent was more than just a technical exercise! We soon added a touch of fun to the experience. Inspired by the world of Mario Kart, we started throwing snowballs at each other on the way down, adding a dose of fun and competition to an already thrilling adventure. From laughter to friendly rivalry, this improvised touch made the experience even more memorable.
A multi-track descent
The course was divided into several sections, some longer than others. In some places, we even had to pull our sleds forward by hand to reach the next section of the run. These forced pauses also allowed us to catch our breath and enjoy the sensations of the descent even more.
As we made our way down the course, night fell, completely transforming the atmosphere of the descent. Under the light of our headlamps, the snow glistened and the La Norma landscape took on a whole new dimension. The sensation of gliding at full speed through the glistening darkness was both exhilarating and magical. At times, we slowed down to admire the snow-capped peaks standing out against the starry sky, an unforgettable sight that made this adventure even more unique.
Back at the resort, the excitement gradually subsides, giving way to a gentle euphoria. We replay the race in our heads, thinking back to the highlights of the descent, the exhilarating accelerations, the snowball fights and the moments of pure freedom. Everyone shares their impressions, smiles on their faces, as the lights of La Norma gently illuminate the end of this memorable adventure.
Practical information on how to get started
- Minimum age: 10 years and over
- Total duration: approx. 90 minutes, including gondola ride, briefing and descent
- Equipment provided: helmet, vest, sledge and headlamp
- Recommended clothing: warm clothing and gloves suitable for winter conditions
- Reservations: recommended, especially in high season
- Supervision: descent supervised by an instructor to guarantee safety and technical advice
This activity is ideal for thrill-seekers, whether with family or friends. It's an original way to discover the mountains and snow sports in a whole new way.
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