Winter Activities and Wellness

Home My desire to My desire for Relaxation Winter Activities and Wellness

We are Marie and François, an active retired couple. As January draws to a close, we’re sitting by the window of our lodging in Pelvoux-Vallouise, in the Hautes-Alpes, savoring the start of the day as we gaze out at the snow-capped mountains bathed in the sun’s first rays. The air is crystal clear, and the sky is pristine. “Exactly what we need,” I think to myself as François checks out the various cross-country skiing trails in the Pays des Écrins. I tell myself that our trip—a mix of Nordic activities and relaxation—is off to a great start.

In this part of the Écrins National Park, we immediately feel that we have found our haven. Far from the hustle and bustle, we discover a different way of experiencing the mountains—one that combines sports, contemplation, and rejuvenation. We are captivated by the hanging glaciers, the jagged peaks, and the villages and hamlets blanketed in snow. The landscapes are breathtaking.

François discovered the Pays des Écrins while watching a video about the opening of the Vallouise cross-country ski area. He fell in love with it right away and immediately suggested we go explore the region ona romantic getaway. I said yes!

As soon as we arrive, we want to go cross-country skiing. We’re having a hard time deciding between the different locations.

Cross-country skiing: Which resorts should you choose?

We agree and decide to start with the slopes in Vallouise. The next day will be devoted to the cross-country ski area in the Freissinières Valley. Two locations and two atmospheres, each special in its own way. The Vallouise trails are located on a vast plain, offering a gentle start, and then run along the Onde River in a stunning valley where the snow is of remarkable quality.

With the same lift ticket, we can even enjoy the trail that starts at the Pelvoux-Vallouise resort and ski all the way to Les Vigneaux. As for Freissinières, the cross-country skiing area offers trails through a beautiful forest along the Biaysse River as well as on the plain just before the village.

Puy Saint Vincent is no slouch when it comes to cross-country skiing

While skiing on the slopes of Vallouise, we met Jeanne and Éric, a couple from Lyon who were vacationing in the valley. They recommended that we try the cross-country skiing area at Puy Saint Vincent. We knew this resort in the Hautes-Alpes had an excellent reputation for downhill skiing, but we didn’t know it also offered cross-country skiing. Jeanne and Éric were enthusiastic as they described their trip the day before to the Col de la Pousterle, including the Fournel lookout and then the Têtes lookout.

Panoramic views guaranteed!

Snowshoeing and Nordic walking: pure contemplation

A change of pace in winter activities: after cross-country skiing, we discover the joy of hiking in the heart of the unspoiled nature of the Écrins Massif. With or without snowshoes—but always with poles—we explore the hidden corners of Pelvoux-Vallouise and Puy Saint Vincent. Since we’re beginners and aren’t very familiar with the area, we’ve hired a mid-mountain guide.

We’re lucky enough to meet Cyril, who takes us on a hike through the powdery fields and along narrow forest trails, with the high peaks of the Écrins towering above us. We spot chamois tracks in the snow and go around a capercaillie conservation area.

Time to recharge and focus on your well-beingafter a workout

Back at our lodging, we discover another side of the Pays des Écrins: wellness. We couldn’t resist the lure of the Norwegian bath, where we toasted with a glass of champagne. What a life! These intimate moments strengthen our bond, which remains as strong as ever after 41 years of marriage.

After the invigorating cold of the day, we enjoy the soothing warmth of the Norwegian sauna, which relaxes the muscles worked hard by our Nordic activities. To round out this moment of relaxation, we treat ourselves to a soothing and rejuvenating massage. We cherish these precious moments we share together!

What appeals to us most during our getaway in this part of the Écrins National Park is the authentic and unspoiled character of the area.
We discover majestic landscapes and enjoy activities that align with our interests. The accommodations, on a human scale, embody the art of living. The cuisine is delicious, with a strong emphasis on local products. And above all, the hospitality is sincere and warm.

We’re so excited that next year we’ll be coming back as a family—with our children and grandchildren. The Pays des Écrins offers a wide variety of activities for all tastes and all ages. We’ll spend unforgettable moments together in a magical setting.