A Winter Family Vacation in the Mountains : Land of Jewel Boxes
Micro-Adventure
Winter in the Mountains with the Family: Shared Moments of Joy
Here we go. For these February vacation days, we’re heading to the mountains for a family getaway. Our little family consists of Zoé and Léonie, our daughters, and Hugo and me, Zélie, the parents. Last winter, we stayed at the Pelvoux-Vallouise resort and absolutely loved our trip. That’s why we’re doing it again this season.
Skiing: a sure bet for ourfamily winter vacationin Pelvoux-Vallouise
The whole family agrees: we want to ski! Zoé and I decided to give snowboarding a try. Before our trip, I booked beginner-level lessons for the two of us, as well as 2-star alpine skiing lessons for Léonie. I was just as eager as Zoé to try a new winter sport, even though I was a little nervous about falling. Once the lesson started, thanks to our instructor’s advice, my fear disappeared.
Little by little, I’m gaining confidence and making noticeable progress… although I have to admit that I’m improving much more slowly than Zoé.
But what a wonderful feeling it is to discover a new way to hit the slopes! Outside of class, the four of us get together and ski on the slopes of Pelvoux-Vallouise. We share some precious moments together.
Sled Dogs:Léonie Takes the Whole Family on an Adventure
Léonie has loved animals ever since she was a little girl. She’s dying to go dog sledding. It doesn’t take her long to convince us because we, too, are thrilled by the idea of spending some timeless moments in the great outdoors with the dogs. Luckily, I had planned ahead and made a reservation a few days earlier.
Exploring the Great Outdoors by Sled
We chose the “Family Sledding Experience , ” which takes place in Puy Saint Vincent. When we arrive, we get to meet the dogs. It’s a wonderful , heartwarming experience. Then we settle into the sled. All bundled up, we set off on an adventure worthy of the Far North—it’s magical!
We’re impressed by the strength and energy of the dogs led by the musher. We glide through a magnificent, powdery landscape, surrounded by snow-covered larch trees, and feel the fresh air on our faces. We’re lucky: the weather is splendid. The sun is shining, and the snow sparkles brilliantly. Léonie is delighted and laughs out loud. Once the ride is over, we say goodbye to the dogs, showering them with hugs and cuddles.
The package we chose is truly a wonderful way to experience this activity. And I have to admit, for me, letting someone else take the lead without having to worry about a thing suits me perfectly.
Become a musher for awinter family vacationin the mountains
Captivated, we decided to continue our adventure with the Nordic dogs by learning how to drive a sled. It’s no longer a matter of letting ourselves be guided—now we have to take the reins. Our instructor, a state-certified musher, taught us the essentials about sled dogs and driving techniques. It wasn’t easy for me at first, while Zoé, Léonie, and Hugo were right at home from the start. I’m definitely falling behind in both snowboarding and mushing during this snowy vacation in the Pays des Écrins! But I’m taking it in stride—everyone’s gently teasing me, and we’re all having a good laugh.
Anyway, I can beat them all at cross-country skiing! I can’t wait to go skiing at the Vallouise Nordic Center before our vacation ends.
The girls, Hugo, and I all agree: a family vacation in the mountains in winter is a breath of fresh air. We’re so happy to be together and to take the time to share simple activities and moments. The mountains in winter are a joyful escape for the family, set against a backdrop of snow-covered landscapes.