Snow Shoe Walking Weekends
For those not wishing to ski or snowboard, one of the most popular and highly recommended activities in the area is snow shoeing or "racquettes" as it is known in France. The region's terrain consists of woodland tracks of varying degrees of steepness, gentle snow-clad meadows and high, open peaks with stunning views.
For beginners it is good to get used to the technique and sensation of snow shoe walking in areas such as the gentle Beauregard plateau - a flat sector with 8km of walks, reached by cable car with wonderful views of the Aravis Mountains and over to Mont Blanc on a good day. There are also many other lower, gentle walks allowing you to explore the region and still have the energy to go again the next day!
As you get more adept at snow shoeing you may wish to walk over Danay - a tree lined mountain ascent leading to a startling 1700metre open peak. Situated just behind the chalets it is easy to access and thoroughly worth the walk on reaching the top, with amazing 360degree views of the whole area. You may also be able to experience the delights of the mountain buvette if open, half way up the walk.
For
snow shoe walking experts you can attempt the advanced Mont La Chat, a full
day walk to the 2000metre summit. Starting in St Jean itself this is a hard
walk but well worth the effort for the incredible views over to Lake Geneva,
the Jura Mountain range and down towards Annecy. This walk is only for the
experienced however as the climb is over 1000 vertical metres up rocky scree
slopes covered in a blanket of snow.
No matter what standard or level of fitness you are, the Aravis area is a joy to explore by 'racquette' during your holiday. Take a pair of our new snow shoes to explore on your own using our maps, let us hire you a guide for the day to lead you to unchartered territory or join one of the accompanied walks organized on a regular basis by the St Jean tourist office. A growing sport, you'll be really pleased you tried this quiet and relaxing pastime. Please visit our dedicated WalkWeekender short break walking site for details on the Winter Snow-Shoe Walking Weekends.
We also offer 'taster' snow shoe sessions to all our guests a couple of evenings a week with an hour-long walk around the river gorge behind the Aravis Lodge.