A guided hike through a valley frozen in winter
Before heading out for a winter hike in the mountains, it’s essential to do your research beforehand to ensure your snowshoe hike is safe. I headto the Bonneval Tourist Office, which puts me in touch withthe ESF (French Ski School) to find a guide.
Preparations and departure in a friendly atmosphere
We meet in front of the ESF office, where I join the rest of the group in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Our guide hands out the safety equipment we’ll need to navigate unsecured terrain during this snowshoe hike: an avalanche transceiver, a shovel, and a probe. After introductions and a brief overview of the outing’s itinerary, everyone straps on their snowshoes: the adventure begins.
A scenic drive above Bonneval-sur-Arc
We leave Bonneval-sur-Arc, taking a route along the southern slope, bathed in soft, golden light. As we climb, the landscape opens up: below us, the village unfolds like a postcard, nestled beneath its blanket of snow, and behind it, the ridges of the ski area stand out sharply against the winter sky. After this gentle climb, punctuated by conversation and breaks, we reach a snow-covered section of the Col de l’Iseran road.
As we round one of the bends, the Lenta Valley suddenly opens up before us: the scenery changes. The Vanoise National Park reveals itself in all its splendor, a pristine, calm, and silent setting stretching out before our eyes. A few isolated chalets dot the landscape, a stone bridge spans an icy torrent flowing down from the pass… The atmosphere becomes almost surreal, as if we were crossing a threshold to enter a world outside of time.
Encounter with the ibex and a break with a view of the peaks
Observing wildlife in its natural habitat
In this pristine setting, a special moment awaits us: on the sun-drenched slopes of the valley, a small herd of ibex appears. At the gateway to Vanoise National Park, wildlife roams here in complete tranquility. The ibex, emblematic of this protected area, stand there, peaceful, almost indifferent to our presence. The silence is total, as if suspended. We watch them for a long time, fascinated by their presence and their impressive calm.
A gourmet break with a view of the glaciers
To make this special moment last a little longer, our guide serves us a tasting of fruit juices, Savoie wines, and local products to enjoy while gazing at the mountain peaks. A few words are exchanged, a few smiles shared, and then silence naturally settles in once more. It’s a true haven of tranquility, surrounded by nature, where everything invites you to slow down and marvel at the world around you.
Then comes the time to head back down, slowly, not wanting to break this spell. The sun is setting gently, casting long shadows across the slopes. The atmosphere grows softer, almost intimate. We make our way down in silence, each of us lost in thought, as if this snowshoe hike had awakened something essential within us. The mountain reassumes its place, immense and benevolent, leaving us with that precious feeling of being fully alive.
Why try this snowshoe hike this winter?
Want to experience the mountains in a whole new way? This snowshoe hike to the Lenta Valley is much more than just a simple walk: it’s a true immersion in unspoiled, silent, and majestic nature.
Led by a professional guide, this accessible and enriching experience offers a unique opportunity to explore the wild landscapes of Vanoise National Park, observe ibex in their natural habitat, and enjoy a moment of timeless tranquility.
Whether you’re a contemplative soul, a lover of the great outdoors, or simply curious to venture off the beaten path, this snowshoe hiking experience is perfect for you. This winter, treat yourself… and enjoy an unforgettable escape into the heart of nature.
Precautions to Take
Conditions can change very quickly: wind, fresh snow, or a warm spell can affect the stability of the snowpack. It’s best to opt for a guided outing led by a professional, especially if you’re new to the activity, and to stick to well-known trails on the outskirts of Vanoise National Park. Finally, letting someone know your route and estimated return time is a simple yet essential precaution to ensure you can enjoy the mountains with complete peace of mind.
Cross-country skiing and pedestrians: sharing Nordic spaces must be respected
Winter sports: everything you need to know about snowshoeing
