8 ECO-RESPONSIBLE ACTIVITIES TO PRACTICE THIS WINTER IN THE MOUNTAINS

When it comes to planning your holiday in a winter sports resort, we all dream of wide open spaces and nature. The mountains are, of course, not spared by climate change, as evidenced by the impressive images seen during the summer heatwave with the melting of the glaciers. In order to preserve our fragile ecosystems, we have selected for you 8 mountain-friendly activities in winter.

For some eco-responsible holidays in the mountains, there are some good reflexes to have this winter. First of all, it is best to choose a station having the Green Snowflake label which implies that the latter is engaged in an ecological transition process. Then, it is ideal to rent your ski outfits and winter sports equipment during your stay.

Now that you are equipped and have chosen your destination, discover our selection ofeco-responsible activities in the mountains.

Activity #1

A snowshoe hike to meet nature

A perfect activity to observe winter flora and fauna, snowshoeing is accessible to everyone. It is a great experience to get started in mountain sports activities, in a friendly atmosphere and in natural settings that will leave you with unforgettable memories. And what's more, snowshoeing accompanied by an instructor is often synonymous with tasting local products!

Activity #2

Cross-country skiing for a sliding ride

Cross-country skiing is probably the most complete sliding activity. As with alpine skiing, after a few sessions of acquiring the basic gestures, you can start out on walks with complete peace of mind. Cross-country skiing is practiced on groomed trails with light and very comfortable equipment compared to alpine skiing. This activity will give you great sensations of sliding and speed, once you have mastered the techniques: classic or skating. It's up to you.

Activity #3

Snowshoeing, the perfect mix between ski touring and snowshoeing

Little known to the general public, this activity will offer a unique sliding sensation! If you like snowshoeing but are looking for a little more sliding, snowshoe skiing is for you! This sliding device is equipped with metal bars and a synthetic seal skin that are integrated directly under the soles to be able to climb effortlessly to the summit. It is an activity for the whole family because it is very easy to access even for beginners and non-skiers. For the more experienced, it is even possible to telemark or have fun linking bumps and valleys.

Activity #4

Nordic ski touring to explore wild nature

Nordic ski tours are for lovers of the great outdoors! In the history of skiing, the development of skiing has never stopped and its goal is to allow human beings to have fast and reliable transport across the mountains in winter. The principles of practical skiing have somewhat disappeared over time, giving way to cross-country skiing and downhill skiing. The peasant common sense of our ancestors is making a strong comeback today. In the spirit of the times, the skis of yesteryear seem to us to be the skis of freedom, walking and exploration par excellence. Here, it is no longer a question of following groomed slopes, but improvised paths.

Activity #5

Icefall: climbing in winter mode!

Derived from rock climbing, ice climbing is practiced with ice axes and crampons on frozen water. In winter, when the waterfalls have frozen, it's time to have fun. Each one is unique in its shape. We're talking about columns, jellyfish, bumps, curtains and many others. This is what makes ice climbing so fun and varied. In magical settings, you can discover climbing techniques on ice surfaces. Accessible to all, the activity is supervised by a high mountain guide.

Activity #6

Escape Game: escape into the great outdoors!

You already know about escape games, where the goal is usually to get out of a closed place by solving puzzles, but did you know that there is a version in the great outdoors? The goal is always to have fun in a group, but by discovering nature. This fun and unusual adventure is accessible to the whole family and especially to fans of snowshoeing and investigations.

Activity #7

Biathlon: right on target!

Want to slip into the shoes of a champion? It's possible! During the winter, biathlon initiations are numerous in the mountains, with a safe experience for children thanks to the laser rifle. For adults, air rifle or real 22 long rifle, your choice. As a reminder, biathlon can be practiced on cross-country skis but also on snowshoes or on foot. The ultra-complete sporting experience is suitable for beginners and experienced players alike and will make you work on cardio and concentration.

Activity #8

Igloo or yurt: sleep in nature

What if you spent the evening in a real Igloo or even in a Mongolian yurt? An ideal activity for several people, after skiing, to enjoy the nightlife in the mountains. Often the evening begins with a snowshoe walk to access the spot and once there the festivities can begin with the tasting of local products or the legendary marshmallows on a wood fire. If you choose the igloo, you can even learn how to build one! An outdoor activity in a friendly and gourmet atmosphere. What else?

You can find all these eco-responsible activities in the mountains and many others on our partner's website ESI, International Ski School. ESI is a network of more than 75 schools in France and Switzerland with a ski teaching philosophy that aims to be more human and personalized, which particularly speaks to us at O'rentees!

In the midst of an energy and climate crisis, it is important to remember that cleaner and more responsible alternatives exist even in the mountains. It's your turn to play, now!