New adventures on the slopes

You can experience the thrill of the slopes in many different ways.© Le Studio

Treks

The three biggest resorts in the southern Alps - Auron, Isola 2000 and Valberg - all offer a wide range of non-skiing activities. At the top of the list has got to be a walk in the snow beneath blue skies and through pine scented forests. Why not try the easy-to-use, modern 'raquette' snowshoe, which are available to all ages? 

All you have to do is choose a path suitable to your ability and strap lightweight plastic shoes to your feet, allowing effortless treks though the crisp snow. Set out on your own or join a group to explore the hidden parts of the three valleys.

Discover mountain flora and fauna and learn the histories of the resorts. This is a perfect activity for poor weather conditions, as well as non-skiers, walkers and nature lovers. So grab your raquettes for an outing with a twist!

Tubing and tobogganing

Snow tubing and tobogganing may sound a little ambitious to many, but fear not - the thrills of speed can be suited to all. Experience downhill exhilaration to the max in a   toboggan. Or bounce and bump your way down on a specially designed snow tube, with the added convenience of having a lift to get to the top and do it all over again!Take family fun to the extreme without even laying a finger on skis!

Climbing icefalls

During the winter months, waterfalls in the European Alps freeze, providing varied and challenging ice climbs.From single pitch falls located minutes from the road, to hundreds of metres of twisting and undulating ice carving through mountain valleys, this activity is suitable for all ages and levels. 

Alpine ice climbing is the perfect platform to kick-start a mountaineering hobby, as well as a fun activity in its own right. Whether you prefer a more relaxing rhythm and easier grades, or for adrenaline junkies who wish to be tested to the extreme, Chamonix, La Grave and Gavarnie in the French Pyrenées offer a range of courses on icefalls. There are even excursions available in Cogne in Italy if you fancy venturing a little further beyond the Alps.

From Friday 21st until Sunday 23rd January, Saint-Dalmas will be welcoming keen explorers to discover the spectacular ice waterfalls. With mountain guides and equipment provided, enjoy the breathtaking views while getting close and personal with nature's finest creations.

Paraskiing

Try your hand at gliding over the mountains at the École de Parapente in Chamonix Mont-Blanc, with this magical mix of paraskiing and picturesque, snow-capped mountains.Aided by experienced instructors, Chamonix offers first timers and those at an advanced level the perfect medium. Learn to paraski in three days! 

Dog sledding

Courchevel and Meribel give snow fanatics the chance to embrace the famous dog sledding. Buckle up and get in the driving seat, as you take charge of your own sled with up to four dogs pulling you. Speed through woods, up and down hills, and occasionally under trees. Don't forget you will have to help the dogs up hill too! This exhilarating frenzy is the pinnacle of a snow lover's dream.

Driving on the snow

Fancy learning to drive in the snow? Why not whiz around the station of Isola 2000 by snowmobile or wrap up well and take a leisurely journey in a horse-drawn carriage. Ecole du Ski Français at Isola 2000 also take groups of snow lovers out on treks on sealskins.  Parking P1 at Isola 2000 offers the latest routes, open from December until April. Or enjoy an exceptional adventure departing from Isola 2000 at 7pm for a snowmobile hike and dinner in a mountain chalet. Available December until April. 

Go-karting

Go-karting in the snow? Yes, you heard right! Compete on the ice circuit at Isola 2000 for the race of your life!

Ski pods

The Pinatelle cable car, which links Auron and St Etienne de Tinée doesn’t have to be used for skis. Just imagine taking a  journey up the slopes and along the ski lines of the southern Alps in the comfort of your own ski pod. If this sounds like you then head for Domaine Blanc and the ski resorts of the Mercantour National Park, which straddle the Franco-Italian border only an hour and a half from Nice. Alternatively, wander around Isola, exploring the splendid Saint Pierre clocher alpine bell tower. The remnants of a 16th century church stand at the entrance to this enchanting medieval village, offering a variety of breathtaking views.

Spoil yourself 

After a busy day of ice waterfalls and other activities, unwind at the Aquavallée aquatic centre. Splash around in the pool, sweat it out in the sauna and bask in the jacuzzi. Alternatively, relax at the Vinadio thermal spa. Located 1,320m up in the high Stura Valley, it is one of the least contaminated spots in the Maritime Alps. Due to its special microclimate, the resort is in an ideal position for guests to immerse themselves in the warm open pool when all around them snow covers the landscape. Enjoy mud, balneal, hydropinic and inhalatory therapy after a chilly day in the snow.         

Louise Kirby