With Animals
With Animals
Get away fromit all on a guided walk
Come on an adventure with your four-legged friends!
Horses, donkeys, alpacas, or dogs: choose your companion and let yourself be guided. Whether it’s a leisurely ride, a family hike, or a unique adventure… there’s a whole new way to explore the mountains, in the company of your chosen companion.
This winter, experience the mountains in a whole new way—to the rhythm of paws and hooves. Slip on your après-ski boots or sturdy shoes, breathe in the crisp air, and set off on an experience like no other: the thrill of a dog-sled ride, the controlled adrenaline rush of skijoring, or gentle, accessible walks with donkeys or alpacas. Whether you’re looking for speed, a sense of camaraderie, or a family outing, our providers tailor these excursions to all skill levels—safety, warmth, and snow-covered landscapes guaranteed.
Horseback Riding: Trails Rides and Introductory Lessons
Just outside the Écrins National Park, the Ranch de Vallouise and Les Poney du Montbrison in Puy-Saint-Vincent welcome riders ages three and up for one-hour pony rides or longer horseback rides. Open every summer from July 1 to August 31, these centers also offer 1-hour-30-minute lessons for all skill levels and five-session courses for riders ages ten and up. Set in the heart of the alpine pastures, riders of all ages can enjoy the experience in complete safety, supervised by attentive professionals.
Ski-joring: Toursand Introductory Lessons
Located at the Vallouise Nordic Ski Area, across from the Écrins National Park Visitor Center, Mélanie and her horses offer introductory skijoring lessons for all ages, as well as horse-drawn tube rides for children ages one and up. The outings take place on marked and secure trails in the idyllic setting of the Vallouise plain.
Donkey Rides
Marion Fantoni, Amandine d’Alpagaga, and Pierre de Gambad’âne offer guided excursions with one or more donkeys, which will carry your luggage and children on trips lasting 1 to 6 days through the magnificent landscapes of the Pays des Ecrins. It’s a wonderful experience to enjoy as a family during your next vacation.
Our World Champions in Ski-Joring and Sled Dog Racing
In the Pays des Écrins, the mountains are also defined by those who share a unique passion for animals. Mélanie Pauget, the French ski-joëring champion, embodies the elegance and bond between horse and skier. Rémi Desoutter, a musher and polar explorer, brings the snow-covered landscapes to life with his teams of sled dogs. These two inspiring figures share a common love: that of the living mountains, guided by the strength, loyalty, and beauty of animals.
Alp’Agaga: Walks with Alpacas
Take your children on a walk at the pace of the alpacas at Alp’Agaga: led on a lead rope, these family walks combine animal encounters, storytelling, and creative workshops, and can range from a short stroll to a half-day or full-day “all-inclusive” experience, depending on the package you choose. You can’t ride the alpacas (they can carry small bags at most); the outings are led by Amandine, who also leads gourmet walks and workshops focused on wool and farm life.
Dog Hiking
The Sled Dog
Dog-sled hiking is a unique activity that combines walking with the companionship of a sled dog. Wearing a harness connected to the dog, you take advantage of its pulling power to move more easily along the trails. Led by professionals, this experience lets you explore the landscapes of the Pays des Écrins in a fun and accessible way for everyone. Whether with family, friends, or in a group, it’s a friendly way to hike while sharing a special moment with a four-legged companion.
Embark on your first dog-sledding adventure and let yourself be swept away by the power and enthusiasm of a Nordic pack. Comfortably seated in the sled, you’ll discover the mountains in a whole new way, to the rhythm of the dogs’ paws as they carve their path through the snow. A magical experience, blending the thrill of the ride with the serene beauty of the winter landscape.
And for the littlest adventurers, the Baby Park welcomes children ages 3 to 6. It’s a fun and safe space where they, too, can experience their first thrill of sliding with the dogs—all on their own level. Smiles guaranteed, and precious memories to last a lifetime.
The Donkey That Bubbles Farm
In the heart of Vallouise, the Ferme de l’Âne qui Bulle raises its donkeys with passion and respect to offer a range of unique cosmetics. Every soap, cream, or balm is made from fresh, organic milk produced directly by the farm’s herd. This local, artisanal approach guarantees natural skincare products that are gentle on the skin and true to the spirit of the Pays des Écrins. Here, self-care goes hand in hand with authenticity, animal welfare, and a love of the mountains.
A FEWTIPS
For your comfort, please wear long pants and closed-toe shoes; helmets are provided by the centers. During peak season, be sure to book at least forty-eight hours in advance to guarantee your spot.
Exploring the trails of the Pays des Écrins on horseback or with alpacas means choosing a leisurely pace to experience the mountains in a different way, while respecting the natural environment.
Book your outing WITH THE ANIMALS
Behind every ride on a horse, donkey, alpaca, or dog are enthusiasts who know the mountains like the back of their hand and love to share them with others. These guides and equestrian centers in the Pays des Écrins welcome you warmly and share their expertise, whether you’re trying it for the first time, going on a family outing, or embarking on a more challenging trek.
They care for the animals, ensure your safety, and, above all, create simple, memorable moments in the heart of nature. With them, every outing becomes an encounter: with the land, with the animals… and with people who are passionate about helping you discover the Écrins in a whole new way.
