The preparations
For this outing, we approached mountain professionals to find the most appropriate route, while guaranteeing our safety. After all, we mustn't forget that the mountains, even in winter, can be dangerous - especially when avalanches or bad weather could obstruct our progress, or even get us lost.
The first step is to find out about the various outings offered by the ESF (French ski schools), which bring together ski instructors and mountain guides throughout the winter. The choice of outing depends on your level, with an itinerary adapted to reach the famous Vallonnet glacier cave.
The day before, we get in touch with the ESF to check whether the outing is still on, thanks to the weather forecast and the BRA (avalanche risk bulletin). The signals are all green, and it's time to go to a sports store to reserve our ski touring equipment.
Let the adventure begin!
This time it's the right time! We meet in front of the ESF office, just before the lifts open, with our ski touring equipment, and our off-piste gear (avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe) in our rucksack, along with water and a small snack. Then our instructor arrives, introduces himself and explains the program for the outing.
Once the discussion was over, we set off in the direction of the Vallonnet chairlift, using the lifts to get to the top of the Mulinet ski lift at 2260m altitude, where the start of the ski touring begins.
The climb to the foot of the glacier is both demanding and rewarding. The silence of the mountain, interrupted only by the sound of your footsteps on the snow, creates an almost mystical atmosphere. Entering the glacier valley, the panorama is breathtaking, with surrounding peaks such as the Pic Régaud and behind us the peaks of the Iseran valley, reminding us of the grandeur and raw beauty of the Alps.
Each step brings us a little closer to our goal. In the distance, the glacier reveals itself, and the discovery of the glacier grotto is a magical moment. As you enter, you're struck by the clarity and shades of blue emanating from the thousand-year-old ice. Once inside, the cave's natural beauty leaves you speechless. The floor, made entirely of live ice, presents an additional challenge: moving forward without slipping is almost a feat. However, the effort is well worth it, as the interior of the cave reveals crystal formations of rare beauty, as if frozen in time.
Did you know?
The Vallonnet glacier is in two parts. The first, the upper part, lies at the base of the Pointe de l'Albaron and is visible from the village and the ski area. The second, lower part, lies at the bottom of a wild valley, outside the ski area, at the foot of the Col du Greffier. It is accessible by snowshoe, ski touring and off-piste. This is where you can discover the Vallonnet glacial cave.
The pleasure of skiing in fresh snow
After exploring the cave and taking plenty of photos and videos, it's time to head back down. The descent is made in light powder snow, offering unrivalled pleasure to glide enthusiasts. The contrast between the effort of the climb and the fluidity of the descent is exhilarating. With every turn, the snow flies around you, creating a sensation of absolute freedom until you return to the the ski area and reach the foot of the slopes.
Back in civilization, we warm up over a hot drink, exchanging our impressions of this unforgettable day. This professionally supervised ski touring adventure enabled us to discover one of the hidden wonders of the Alps, in complete safety.
The combination of physical exertion, the discovery of a natural site as exceptional as the glacier cave, and the intense pleasure of the powder descent makes for an unforgettable experience that is sure to remain engraved in our memories. A precious memory, a shared adventure that leaves a lasting impression, reminding us of the splendor and challenges of the mountains in winter.
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