From 1.620 €
5 (6 Reviews)
7 Dates
I have some questions 🙋Val di Rhemes is a hidden gem for ski touring, nestled within the Gran Paradiso National Park, just a few kilometers from Chamonix.
Initially, the valley is quite narrow as you ascend, but at the top, it opens up to reveal a vast amphitheater of stunning mountains, right on the border with France and Val d'Isère.
This setting is perfect for ski touring for people with minimal experience! The elevation gains are never excessive (the longest trip we’ll do is about 1.100 meters of ascent), and the slopes are gentle or moderately inclined, ideal for skiing.
Additionally, with its northern exposure, the area retains powder snow well into the season. Due to the unique alpine geography, it’s also common to find good weather here when storms from the north hit Chamonix, just a few kilometers away.
We’ll base ourselves in a traditional Italian mountain hut, where hearty local food and a warm alpine atmosphere make it the perfect place to unwind after a day on skis.
From the hut, we’ll have the opportunity to embark on a different tour each day, traveling with a light backpack and fully enjoying the ascents and descents.
This course is ideal for those who have had some previous ski touring experience but want to refine their skills while spending nights in a hut, in preparation for more challenging tours.
We recommend this tour, for example, before attempting the famous Haute Route Chamonix-Zermatt. Over the years, many groups who have taken this course have successfully completed the Haute Route the following year with confidence.
Meeting on Day 0 (the day before the course starts), in Rhemes-Notre-Dame, at 18.00 at the Hotel (details sent upon booking) with the Guide, who will introduce themselves, review your gear, and go over the week's program along with the latest weather forecast. This night is included in the price.
For this first tour, we will venture into the Vallone di Sort to reach the summit of Testa di Entrelor. The trip will allow us to gently warm up and start practicing kick turns. This valley is one of the wildest in the Gran Paradiso National Park, and in its beautiful larch forests, it’s not uncommon to encounter animals such as chamois and ibex, which take shelter at lower altitudes during the winter weather. After leaving the forest, we’ll ascend the wide upper slopes, with a short climb first leading us to the pass and then to the summit cross. Return to the Hotel.
Today, we'll ascend to the hut, our base for the rest of the week. In the afternoon, if mountain conditions allow, we’ll do a short skinning ascent near the hut, to enjoy the magnificient views.
From day 3 to day 6, we will embark on different tours starting from the refuge. There are plenty of possible destinations (Punta Galisa, Punta Calabre, Punta Palettaz, Gran Vaudala, Punta Basei, Col du Fond, and many others), and we will choose our destination each day based on conditions. Every summit will offer us breathtaking views. We will also cross small glaciers, which make the environment even more majestic. Every afternoon, we’ll return to the refuge, where you can enjoy a fantastic meal! On the last day, after the trip, we'll collect our gear at the hut and ski back to Rhemes for a final celebration together!
The tour is aimed at ski mountaineers who have had some experience in ski touring and want to improve their technique and knowledge of winter mountains, as well as more experienced groups of ski mountaineers (in this case, as a private group) who wish to explore a new and wild location (which they will surely not be disappointed by).
Technical Skills:
Physical Fitness:
Feel free to reach out if you have any questions about the required skill and fitness levels.
The meeting point for the course is in Rhemes-Notre-Dame at 18:00 on Day 0 (the day before the course starts). There is a nearby free parking area where you can leave your car (the details of the Hotel will be sent upon booking).
The most convenient airports for reaching Rhemes-Notre-Dame are Geneva, Milan Malpensa, and Turin. If flying to Milan Malpensa or Turin, renting a car is the best option.
The Guiding Ratio is 1:6 (1 Guide to 6 Guests max) during all the course.
The hut in the Gran Paradiso National Park opens in early March and close around late April/start of May (depending on the snow conditions).
For this tour, lightweight skis are a great choice, but with enough width to provide excellent flotation in various types of snow (88mm - 95mm underfoot). As for bindings, modern lightweight bindings (such as Dynafit, ATK, and similar) are preferable. These types of bindings have now reached optimal levels of stability and performance.
During the daily trip, we recommend bringing easily digestible food (power bars, cereal bars, dried fruit, etc.). At the refuge, each time we return after our tour, an Italian lunch will be available (pasta, soup, selection of Italian affettati...).
The meals at the hut are of exceptional quality and quantity. After all, a ski touring tour in Italy should also feature a fitting gastronomic backdrop! The refuge offers vegetarian options as well as alternatives for specific intolerances (gluten-free, lactose-free, etc.).
The refuge accept credit cards, so you can bring some money just for small expenses.
Sure! Most of our guests come from abroad and often prefer to arrive a day early or extend their stay after the tour to align with their flight schedules, or simply to enjoy a few extra days in the Alps. Just let us know, and we’ll gladly help with your booking.
We always recommend that clients have two types of insurance. One should cover search and rescue expenses and specifically include extreme activities like mountaineering. Additionally, we advise taking out cancellation insurance in case last-minute issues prevent you from participating.
We are always looking for innovative ways to satisfy our clients and stay at the forefront of the industry. That's why, in addition, we haev partnered with WetterHeld, a forward-thinking German insurance provider. Their parametric insurance is designed to automatically refund you if it rains during your course, ensuring that you’re covered no matter what nature throws your way. With this partnership, we’re making sure that your experience is as seamless as possible, even when the weather doesn’t cooperate. Get a quote directly on their website by clicking here (please check the specific conditions on their website).
Training is essential for a safe and successful ski touring adventure. Over the years, we’ve seen that specific preparation significantly improves your experience and increases your chances of completing challenging tours. Ski touring demands a combination of fitness, endurance, and technical skills.
That’s why we partnered with Steve House and Uphill Athlete, the leaders in mountain sports training, to support your preparation.
When you sign up for any of our courses, you’ll receive a voucher for:
From 1.620€ ・ 7 Dates
5 (6 Reviews)
Ski touring boots should be lightweight for efficient climbing while offering solid robustness for descents. Look for models with a comfortable fit, excellent flex, and reliable buckles to ensure performance.
Lightweight touring skis (88-95mm underfoot) offer the perfect balance of agility and flotation in various snow conditions. Modern lightweight bindings are essential for energy efficiency.
Ski poles for touring should be lightweight and durable, featuring adjustable or fixed lengths. Look for ergonomic grips and large baskets to enhance performance in soft snow.
Opt for models with a back clip attachment and and strong glue to prevent them from coming off during frequent changes. A mohair-nylon mix offers the best grip-to-slide balance.
A transceiver, shovel, and probe are essential for backcountry safety. The shovel should be metal (not plastic) for durability, and the probe must be at least 270 cm for effective snow burial rescue.
Lightweight crampons are essential, offering secure traction on icy, steep terrain. Choose durable, 10-12 point models compatible with your boots for efficient climbing.
A 30-40 liter backpack is ideal, providing enough space for essentials while remaining lightweight. Look for a pack with secure attachments for skis and an ice axe.
A lightweight harness designed for ski touring. It should be easy to put on over your boots, ensuring quick adjustments and comfort while maintaining safety on the climb.
A ski-touring helmet provides protection while remaining lightweight and well-ventilated. Choose a comfortable fit with easy adjustments to enhance your experience on the Haute Route.
Ski crampons are designed to attach to your specific bindings, providing essential traction on icy slopes. Choose lightweight models with aggressive teeth to enhance performance.
Bring sunglasses with high protection (grade 3 or 4) to protect your eyes from intense sunlight and glare at high altitudes, ensuring clear vision and reducing eye strain.
Bring ski goggles to protect your eyes from blizzards, strong winds, and cold. They ensure clear vision and shield your face from harsh weather conditions.
Bring a headlamp with new batteries, with a minimum output of 300 lumens. It’s helpful in low-light situations when staying in the huts.
Pack a down jacket to ensure warmth in cold conditions. Its insulation traps body heat, making it ideal for high altitudes and freezing temperatures, while remaining lightweight and compressible.
Your hardshell jacket must include a hood for full protection from wind, rain, and snow. Waterproof and breathable, it serves as a critical outer layer, ensuring comfort and mobility in harsh conditions.
Bring full-finger thin gloves for dexterity and light protection. They offer warmth in mild conditions while allowing precise hand movements.
Full-finger softshell gloves are essential for protection against wind and light moisture. They offer warmth, durability, and flexibility, ensuring ease of movement while handling gear in cold conditions.
A buff is versatile and provides essential protection against wind, cold, and sun. It can be worn around the neck, over the face, or as a head covering, offering warmth and comfort in changing conditions.
A warm hat is crucial for retaining heat during cold conditions. It provides insulation for your head and ears, ensuring comfort while climbing in low temperatures and protecting against wind chill.
A sun hat is essential for protecting your face and neck from harmful UV rays. It offers shade and breathability, keeping you cool and comfortable during long hours in sunny conditions.
Lightweight leggings are ideal for base layer during cold days. Merino wool is preferable for its moisture-wicking properties and comfort, providing warmth without adding bulk and helping regulate temperature.
Stretch softshell pants offer flexibility and comfort. They provide a balance of breathability and weather resistance, allowing for ease of movement while protecting against wind and light moisture.
Hardshell waterproof pants are vital for protection against rain and snow. Choose ones with full-length separating side zippers for easy access and ventilation, ensuring comfort and mobility.
A lightweight long-sleeve sun top is essential for UV protection. Opt for merino wool or synthetic materials instead of cotton for better moisture management and comfort.
Pack three pairs of ski touring socks, long ones, for added protection. They help prevent blisters and ensure your feet stay comfortable throughout your trip.
A midlayer top is essential for insulation and must fit comfortably over your baselayers. It provides warmth while allowing for breathability, making it ideal for varying temperatures during your tour.
A sleeping bag liner is essential for comfort, with silk being preferable due to its lightweight nature. It’s mandatory in all huts in the Alps, used alongside the blankets provided for a cozy sleep.
A hydration system with at least 1 liter capacity is essential, depending on your drinking habits. Camelbacks work well but may freeze in cold conditions, so plan accordingly to stay hydrated.
A personal care bag is essential for your trip. Include a toothbrush, toothpaste, first-aid tape, Band-Aids and any personal medications or prescriptions for a safe and comfortable journey.
Sunscreen with SPF 50 is essential for high mountain conditions, providing superior protection against harmful UV rays. Apply generously to all exposed skin to prevent sunburn during the tour.
A high-protection lipscreen is essential for shielding your lips from UV rays and harsh weather in the mountains. It helps prevent chapping and sunburn, keeping your lips moisturized and safe.
Earplugs are a must-have for your trip, especially if you find yourself in a hut with a neighbor who thinks they're auditioning for a snoring competition. Enjoy some peace and quiet!
Keep your personal documents in a waterproof bag to protect them from moisture and damage. This ensures that essentials like your ID, permits, and insurance information stay safe.
