4-Day Snowshoeing Hut-to-Hut

Please note the trip begins this morning, so if you are travelling from farther afield, we strongly recommend arriving the night before. We can suggest a handful of cosy local hotels, or you might opt for the night train from Paris. We will pick you up in Briançon at 8h30 (station or hotel) and transfer you to meet your guide and group in the charming Alpine village of Névache. Once together, we will run a quick kit check to ensure everyone’s set, then head off on our four-day snowshoe adventure.

Today’s route: We start up the spectacular Clarée Valley, easing through quiet forest before opening out onto broad, glittering snowfields. It’s an ideal warm-up, with big views and an easy rhythm to sink into the mountain spirit.

Distance: 5 km | Ascent: 500 m | Altitude: 1,601 m → 2,059 m

Afternoon options: On reaching the welcoming Refuge de Buffère, you can simply unwind; hot drink by the fire, relaxed chats, and your first night in a genuine mountain refuge. If you’ve still got energy, there’s the option of a gentle extension towards the Col de Buffère or nearby slopes (weather and snow permitting). Best of all, your heavy pack stays at the refuge, so you can travel light.

Evening: Settle in for a magical first night, hearty mountain fare, shared stories, and that special refuge camaraderie high in the snowy Alps.

After a cosy night at the Refuge de Buffère, we set off once more, descending gently through quiet, snow-laden forest towards the river. Breathing in the crisp alpine air, we then traverse the valley before beginning a gradual, steady climb to our next mountain haven, the welcoming Refuge du Chardonnet. Today’s route strings together varied landscapes: tranquil riverbanks, sheltered woodlands, and open snowy slopes with far-reaching views.

Distance: 4.84 km | Ascent: 379 m | Descent: 248 m | Altitude: 1,818 m → 2,194 m

Afternoon options: On arrival at Chardonnet, we will drop the heavier packs, and the adventure can continue. If you are feeling strong, choose from: A snowshoe to a high-altitude lake, tucked under a deep, wintry blanket; or A steady ascent towards a nearby mountain pass for sweeping panoramas (weather and snow permitting). These options are tackled lightweight, so you can move freely and savour the scenery.

Evening: Settle in for a second night, this time in a different refuge ,with the same warm welcome, hearty mountain fare, and the chance to swap stories about the day’s discoveries.

After a hearty breakfast at the Refuge du Chardonnet, we lace up our snowshoes for another day of superb winter scenery.

We begin with a gentle descent, meandering down towards the river where, we may spot delicate icefalls caught mid-flow. From the valley floor, the trail eases into a steady climb, opening onto a broad, snow-covered plateau and the welcoming Refuge de Laval. The ascent is unhurried, giving you time to soak up the quiet, wild atmosphere.

Distance: 5.78 km | Ascent: 346 m | Descent: 529 m | Altitude: 1,868 m → 2,227 m

Arriving at Refuge de Laval, perched high in the mountains, feels like stepping into a winter daydream, remote, tranquil, and wonderfully serene.

Afternoon options: After dropping the heavier kit, you can head out on a light-and-fast afternoon snowshoe. Options abound from the refuge, choose a gentle wander or a more purposeful climb towards nearby tops. Your guide will suggest the best route based on weather and group energy.

Evening: Our final night in the mountains is one to savour. Enjoy a wholesome dinner, trade stories with your companions, and soak up the special atmosphere of being high in the snowy wilderness. A quiet celebration of how far you’ve come and the memories made before tomorrow’s last leg.

After a final refuge breakfast, we strap on snowshoes one last time for the grand finale, a graceful descent all the way back to Névache.

The trail trends gently downhill, shadowing the river and threading through quiet, snowy forest and broad alpine meadows. After days immersed in the high country, today feels wonderfully free and flowing, with ample time to absorb the stillness and beauty of the Clarée Valley.

Distance: 9.77 km | Ascent: 52 m | Descent: 459 m | Altitude: 2,011 m → 1,602 m

It’s almost entirely downhill, with just a few soft undulations, an enjoyable, rewarding finale and the perfect moment to reflect on the journey and savour each final step.

Arrival: We reach Névache by mid-afternoon, ready for a well-earned treat, perhaps a hot drink, a slice of local cake, or simply a deep breath of crisp mountain air. A quiet celebration of what you’ve achieved.

Departure: After farewells and a last photo or two, you will continue your onward journey, legs pleasantly tired, head full of memories from a truly unforgettable winter adventure.

We will transfer you back to Briançon, and we can help arrange an extra night there if helpful. If you’re catching the night train, you will have time for dinner in town, then a night to dream of snowy summits.