Idées de voyages
Where to trek in the Alps around Mont Blanc or elsewhere!
There are many possibilities for trekking and hiking in the French Alps over several days, with trails adapted to all physical and technical levels, with a guide or on your own if you are experienced.
How to start hiking in the Alps?
Hiking in the Alps can be a very rewarding experience, but it is important to be well prepared before setting out. When preparing, you should assess your fitness level, choose the right equipment and footwear, and plan your route. Once these steps are complete, you can start your week-long trek in the Alps!
Set off with a Mountain Leader who will manage the choice of route, the weather, the walking pace so that everyone follows along and has fun. He will help you discover the fauna and flora found in our Alpine mountain ranges. All of this is done through balcony trails and technical passages that will blow your mind!
Esprit Montagne is a small family travel agency that takes you far from the beaten track in the Alpine Arc between France, Switzerland and Italy to immerse you in the great diversity of landscapes that the Alps offer!
Where to do your first mountain trek?
Dare to be adventurous on the Tour du Mont-Blanc: this 170 kilometre circuit passes through France, Italy and Switzerland, and offers spectacular views of the Mont-Blanc massif... This trip between the 3 countries will take you on a cultural and gastronomic journey.
The Tour des Aiguilles Rouges can last 4 days and 3 nights, and is located in front of Europe's highest peaks, above the Chamonix valley, the birthplace of mountaineering. This summer trek is perfect for a short holiday, or in preparation for a longer trek. You will have the privilege, for a few days, to be on remote paths, between 1000 and 3100 meters of altitude.
A trek in the heart of the Vanoise Park: this easy 5-day trek will take you on a journey of discovery, both in the refuge and with wild animals. You and your guide will be immersed in the playground of the marmots and chamois between the domes of the Vanoise. You may even be lucky enough to spot some Griffon Vultures!
Other ideas for treks in the Alps are available on Esprit Montagne
What to do in 4 or 5 days in the French and Italian Alps?
The Vanoise Glacier Tour: This 5-day trek in the Alps is a must. You will be guided around one of the largest ice caps in Europe with breathtaking views of glacial lakes up to 3850 meters!
Trek between France and Italy : Departure from Bourg Saint Maurice to Italy for 5 days out of time, passing by paths with the roof of Europe and the exceptional flora that nature offers us as a backdrop.
Hiking in Italy, Courmayeur / Mont Blanc : This tour lasts 5 days. It will make you discover the Alps from another angle with an unusual itinerary passing through the Italian border to Switzerland.
Grand Paradis Sauvage : This 5 day Alpine trek takes place in Italy in the Val d'Aoste. The trek passes through the Valsavarenche valley and the Val de Rhêmes in the Gran Paradiso Park.
Trekking in France with a Guide to become autonomous in the mountains:
The French Alps offer many possibilities for trekking. Whether you are a beginner or more experienced, trekking with a guide can be a good way to acquire all the skills needed to become autonomous in the mountains.
For us, trekking with a professional allows you to discover the mountain by acquiring autonomy through learning about meteorology, mapping techniques, equipment management, risks or even knowledge about the surrounding plants at the beginning of the season.
It is important to choose a qualified and experienced guide to maximise your experience and learning. Before you leave, make sure you discuss your objectives and level of trekking experience with your guide. This will allow the guide to tailor the training programme to meet your specific needs.
Ultimately, trekking in the Alps with a guide is an incredibly rewarding experience that will allow you to develop a passion for the mountains and gain valuable skills for a lifetime of safe, independent hiking over several days.
Where to bivouac in the Alps?
There are many places in the wilderness where you can bivouac, but it is important to respect local regulations and minimise your impact on the environment. Here are some suggestions for places to bivouac in the Alps:
The Ecrins National Park in France: there are plenty of opportunities to bivouac along hiking trails and in designated bivouac areas near guarded refuges (check with the refuges).
The Mont Blanc massif in France and Switzerland: there are many places to camp in the wild along the route, but in Italy wild camping is forbidden below 2,500 metres. However, there are many campsites in Val Veny and Val Ferret.
The Vanoise National Park in France: Bivouacking in this area is strictly forbidden except near certain refuges.
Must-see spots for bivouacking in the Northern Alps:
Lake Braies, Dolomites, Italy: This mountain lake in the Dolomites is famous for its crystal clear waters and breathtaking scenery. There are places to camp around the lake, as well as a refuge nearby. A well-cleared spot, away from light pollution, will allow you to have an astronomical evening with the possibility to observe shooting stars!
The Garmil, Andermatt, Switzerland: This Swiss Alpine valley is a popular destination for hikers and climbers. There are many places to bivouac along the hiking trails, as well as mountain huts to rest. Exceptional views of Lake Geneva will be revealed to you as you walk along.
How to prepare a bivouac?
Find the flattest possible spot away from paths and streams to avoid humidity. The place where you are going to spend the night must be ideal, even if it means adding a few hours of walking. Safety, serenity, calm and beauty are the criteria to be respected.
Going on an adventure is fine, but you must make sure that your bivouac equipment is complete to guarantee a 100% successful night under the stars. Take a warm sleeping bag and plan meals!
Make sure you know the current regulations for bivouacs.
Never leave a trace behind. Take garbage bags and make sure you leave the place as you found it before you left.
