France · Alps
Snowshoeing Tour with Mountain Refuge Night
Want to spend 2 days in the heart of winter mountains and sleep in a scenic mountain hut lost in the wild?
This snowshoeing adventure takes you away from it all, far from roads, villages, and crowds, to experience the magic of a winter night at altitude.
Our certified Nature and Mountain guides lead you through pristine snowscapes to a cosy mountain refuge where you’ll share a convivial evening: local wine on the terrace at sunset, a hearty meal prepared together (perhaps a traditional raclette), and stories by the wood stove.
The next morning, wake to a world transformed, perhaps freshly powdered with overnight snow, before snowshoeing back through the silent winter landscape.
Highlights
- Escape to remote wilderness: Sleep in a mountain refuge accessible only on foot (or snowshoe!)
- Convivial atmosphere: Share meals and stories in the warm glow of a wood stove
- Complete immersion: Experience the profound silence of winter mountains
- Expert guidance: Your guide ensures safety and shares local knowledge
What it takes
Effort level
This 2-day adventure suits anyone in reasonable physical condition. You’ll carry a backpack with your overnight essentials (we keep it light). Daily snowshoeing ranges from 3 to 5 hours depending on the route. No previous snowshoeing experience needed, we’ll teach you everything.
Difficulty: 2/5 (Moderate)
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Day by day
Program
Day 1 – Snowshoe to the Refuge
Meeting point at 9:30 AM at a location easily accessible from Gap or Grenoble (exact location confirmed at booking based on conditions and your preferences).
After equipment fitting and a brief technique introduction, we set off through the winter landscape. The route climbs gently through frosted forests and open alpine meadows, with regular stops to admire the views and spot wildlife tracks in the snow.
Arrival at the refuge in the late afternoon. Time to settle in, explore the surroundings, and watch the sunset paint the peaks in shades of gold and pink. Evening spent preparing dinner together and enjoying the unique atmosphere of a mountain refuge in winter.
- Duration: 3-5 hours snowshoeing
- Elevation: +400 to +700m depending on route
- Accommodation: Mountain refuge (dormitory, wood stove heating)
Day 2 – Return Through Winter Wonderland
After breakfast, we pack up and set off on a different route back. The return often feels easier, with the rhythm of snowshoeing now familiar. We might take a longer, more scenic route if conditions and energy allow.
Return to the starting point in the early to mid-afternoon, allowing time for onward travel.
- Duration: 3-4 hours snowshoeing
- Elevation: mainly descent
The program may be adjusted by your guide based on weather conditions, group abilities, and refuge availability.
Life at the refuge
What to Expect at the Refuge
Mountain refuges in winter offer rustic comfort in a spectacular setting:
- Heating: Wood stove keeps the common area warm
- Sleeping: Dormitory with blankets provided (bring a sleeping bag liner)
- Facilities: Basic but functional (sometimes dry toilets, limited electricity)
- Meals: Prepared together from quality ingredients we carry up
The simplicity is part of the charm, it’s about slowing down, disconnecting, and fully experiencing the mountain environment.
Dates and prices
Booking 2026
Price
From A$331 per person
Price varies based on group size and refuge choice.
Price Includes
- Professional state-certified mountain guide
- Equipment loan: snowshoes, poles, avalanche safety gear (transceiver, shovel, probe), sleeping bag liner, backpack if needed
- Picnic lunches (x2) prepared with organic, local, and seasonal products
- Half-board at refuge (dinner, overnight, breakfast)
Price does not include travel insurance, personal expenses, and transport to/from meeting point.
How to Book
This experience runs from December to March depending on snow conditions.
Contact us directly to discuss dates and create the perfect winter escape:
Email: heyaltimood.com Phone: +33 7 69 44 78 66
This experience also makes a wonderful gift, ask us about our gift vouchers.
Before you go
Practical Information
Meeting Point
The exact meeting point depends on snow conditions and which refuge we’ll use. Common starting points include locations in the Dévoluy, Vercors, or Champsaur massifs, all easily accessible from Gap or Grenoble.
What to Bring
- Warm, layered clothing (wool or synthetic base layers, insulating mid-layer, waterproof outer layer)
- Waterproof hiking boots or snow boots
- Warm hat, gloves, and buff/scarf
- Sunglasses and sunscreen (snow reflection is intense)
- Personal toiletries and any medications
- Change of clothes for the evening
We provide a complete kit list upon booking.
Requirements
- Valid ID
- Travel/health insurance (European Health Insurance Card for EU citizens)
- Civil liability insurance covering outdoor activities
- Assistance/repatriation insurance is mandatory
They walked it
Customer Reviews
★★★★★ Team Building Weekend Snowshoeing + RefugeWe went on a weekend-raquette with my company. We were a group of 10 people, and Robin gave us an exceptional weekend. Robin shared his passion for fauna, flora, history and other subjects while hiking and being attentive to all members of the group. We had an unforgettable evening in the refuge. Many thanks to Robin and his team (Alice and Simon) for a wonderful time!
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