In Isère, the mountains are reinventing themselves to offer unparalleled winter experiences. Between the high peaks of the Oisans and the Vercors massifs, the département offers enchanted forests, fun slides, ice diving and starlit nights to share with family and friends. Here are 6 experiences you can enjoy this winter.
With 120 medium- and high-mountain communes and 21 ski resorts, some of which are home to some of the most legendary runs in the French Alps, Isère will appeal as much to thrill-seekers as to those in search of nature, landscapes and heritage. For several seasons now, all our destinations have been coming up with new ways of experiencing the mountains, proving that winter here isn't just about descending powdery slopes.
Auris-en-Oisans - The Yooner, the new way to hit the slopes
Halfway between sledding and skiing, the Yooner is the new winter fun activity. Accessible from the age of 6, this light machine perched on a single runner can be mastered in just a few descents. Every Thursday, the ESF in Auris-en-Oisans organizes a “Sunset Yooner” outing: gondola ride up to Les Sûres (1,600 m), then panoramic descent facing the Grandes Rousses and Écrins massifs. A real fun machine for young and old in search of thrills and laughter.
Price: €20 - Duration: 1 h.
http://aurisesf.com/experiences-inedites/yooner-sunset
Chartreuse, Belledonne, Vercors - A dreamy night under the Igloo
Mountain guide Thomas Séramour plunges his apprentice adventurers into a waking dream: a night in an igloo in the heart of a snow-covered landscape. After reaching the base camp on snowshoes, the igloo is built and a meal is shared. Afterwards, we snuggle up to spend the night in this unusual refuge. The following day, snowshoe trekking to discover the wildlife and panoramic views, in an experience combining sensations, nature and conviviality.
January to March. 2 days and 1 night. Price: 195 €/pers. Bivouac equipment pack: 60 €/pers.
http://thomastrekking.fr/index.php/activite-hiver-micro-aventure
Chamrousse - An ice bath at 2,000 metres altitude to awaken body and mind
A new extreme adventure in Chamrousse: an icy bath in 1°C water, combining the thrill of the cold with the breathtaking beauty of the Alpine landscape. At an altitude of 2,000 m, the crystal-clear waters of Lacs Robert offer a truly icy and invigorating interlude. Supervised by professionals: a warm-up prepares the body before immersion, and gradual recovery prolongs the benefits.
Accessible from age 16. From December 15 to April 6, every day. Price: €30 per person.
http://www.chamrousse.com/bain-gele-en-lac-de-montagne.html
Auris-en-Oisans - Trapper adventure and dog sledding
A unique winter experience with this trapper's evening, which begins with an introduction to communicating with dogs, followed by a sled dog ride on the La Rochette plateau, at an altitude of 1600 meters, supervised by experienced mushers. The outing continues with a traditional Scandinavian meal cooked over a wood fire, in the spirit of Far North raids, before a snowshoe descent to the resort, accompanied by the dogs. A complete experience combining nature, sensations and authenticity in the Belledonne massif.
From 27/01 to 07/03/2025, every Thursday at 6.30pm. Adult €90, Child €75. https://www.alpes-isere.com/sit/soiree-trappeur-6371232/
Villard-de-Lans, Bois Barbu - A nocturnal legend in the heart of an enchanted forest
Looking for the most magical night-time experience in the heart of the Vercors? At Bois Barbu (Villard-de-Lans), the forest is transformed at nightfall into a magical spectacle for young and old alike. A signposted, illuminated trail lets visitors discover snow-covered landscapes, local biodiversity and the legends that shape the Vercors. The experience is guided by Papito and his granddaughter, who share anecdotes and knowledge about the flora and fauna of the massif, offering an original way to experience winter in the Vercors.
Open for Christmas vacations. From €10 to €49 (family package).
http://www.vercors-lumieres.com
Massif des Ecrins - Winter bivouac
Far from the resorts, winter bivouacs offer total immersion in nature. Hikers venture out in search of the ideal spot to set up camp. The program includes collecting dry wood, preparing a convivial meal based on local produce and stargazing in absolute silence. The following day, a magical sunrise at an altitude of 2,000 metres brings this timeless experience to a close. This professionally supervised activity combines relaxation, learning and respect for the environment.
Price: €250. Duration: 2 days and 1 night. 5 pers. minimum and 8 pers. maximum.
Contact: florent.naud@yahoo.fr
Isère in figures :
- 1 National Park: les Écrins
- 2 regional nature parks: Vercors and Chartreuse
- 21 ski resorts
- 2e French department with the highest altitude difference: 3,954m
- Snow as a natural backdrop: 52 % of the Isère region is classified as a mountain and nature area
- 5th International Dark Sky Reserve
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