Typical itinerary
Meet in front of the esf office in Chantemerle at 08:30, then drive to Le Laus de Cervières, at the foot of the Col d’Izoard. We begin by skinning up alongside the cross-country ski trail before heading into the forest. As we emerge from the trees, the impressive Pic de Rochebrune comes into view, towering over the surrounding landscape.
We ski back down along our ascent route, with the option to add one or two extra sections depending on what you feel like doing and the conditions on the day.
Weather and snow conditions may affect the outing. If conditions are unsuitable, the itinerary will be adapted accordingly. Your instructor will contact you the day before to discuss the latest conditions.
We ski back down along our ascent route, with the option to add one or two extra sections depending on what you feel like doing and the conditions on the day.
Weather and snow conditions may affect the outing. If conditions are unsuitable, the itinerary will be adapted accordingly. Your instructor will contact you the day before to discuss the latest conditions.
Full day
7h
7h
Detailed itinerary
- Your instructor will contact you no later than the day before the outing to discuss your equipment, skiing ability, meeting point and arrangements for the day.
- 08:30 – Meet at the esf office in Chantemerle.
- Safety is our top priority, so before setting off we have a short briefing to go over the planned route and equipment. Avalanche safety equipment is provided (shovel, probe and transceiver), and the day before the outing we will advise you on where to hire your ski touring equipment.
- If you do not have your own transport, we may be able to give you a lift.
- Set off from Le Laus between 09:00 and 09:30.
- Our first landmark is the footbridge over the Oules stream, where we leave the cross-country ski trail and continue up through the forest.
- As we emerge from the trees, spectacular mountain scenery opens up around us.
- We continue climbing to the Col Perdu. If your ability allows, there is the option to carry on to the summit of the Arpelin – although at this point, it is no longer an introductory route!
- Once at the top, we take in the spectacular views and stop for something to eat, weather permitting, before beginning the descent. Throughout the day, your instructor will help you improve your technique while sharing their knowledge of snow and avalanche conditions, local wildlife and animal tracks, geology, history and life in the valley – a fascinating insight into the local mountain culture.
- During the descent, we will also take some time to practise a mountain rescue exercise.
- We finish the descent and return to the esf office in Serre Chevalier Chantemerle by 16:00 at the latest.
A true back-to-nature adventure!
- No ski lifts
- Spectacular mountain views
- Progress at your own pace
Provided
- Avalanche safety kit (shovel, probe and transceiver)
Meet your guides and hear from those who have experienced it
The perfect introduction
“A full day discovering ski touring, with no ski lifts in sight.”
MD
Marc D.
esf customer