2 days of ski touring adventure from Paris

Are you looking for a car-free winter getaway for the weekend? Want to explore the mountains and snow-capped peaks without spending hours on the road? Head to the Hautes-Alpes, and more specifically to the Clarée Valley, for a ski touring adventure, accessible by night train from Paris.

In just two days, immerse yourself in a magical setting, between cozy lodges and pristine slopes.

C. Tempier – Hautes-Alpes

The night train journey

Friday evening, the end of the week and the hectic pace of Parisian life, I pack my backpack with the bare minimum and board the night train to Briançon.

The journey begins as soon as I lie down in my bunk: a night lulled by the rolling of the train, the landscape changes but I feel we are getting closer to the mountains, the streetlights become fewer and the buildings turn into lower, detached houses. The shadow of the sleeping mountains looms large, and the sky offers us a vibrant and luminous spectacle!
Heading for Briançon, where I will arrive tomorrow morning for a busy day in the mountains.

Book your train

Checklist for traveling light and well equipped

– A backpack with a minimum capacity of 30 liters
– Clothing suitable for ski touring: consider the 3-layer system (breathable, insulating, waterproof)
– Two pairs of gloves (one light and one warm), hat and/or headband, neck warmer, sunglasses, ski goggles, and helmet
– Sunscreen, a water bottle, and snacks
– For the shelter: a sleeping bag liner, a headlamp, a toiletries bag, a small towel, and a charged phone with an external battery

Tips for dressing well in winter

The train arrives in Briançon at 8:20 a.m. A shuttle bus is waiting to take me to Névache, the starting point of my adventure.

Briançon-Névache shuttle bus timetable

Once you arrive in Névache, don't forget to stop by the Névasport to rent ski touring equipment and safety gear (avalanche transceiver, shovel, probe) before meeting up with my group of friends and the mountain guide who will be accompanying us throughout the weekend.

Find a mountain guide

“Following a guide means giving yourself the freedom to explore the mountains in complete safety.”

Day 1 Ascent to the Buffère refuge – 2,076 m

Practical information: 1.5 hours of climbing 500 m elevation gain

The climb begins gently on a groomed trail before tackling a short steeper section and ending on the gentle slopes of the mountain pastures.

When we reach the refuge, we are speechless! The charm of this little chalet lost in the heart of the mountain pastures and the vast white expanses.

The refuge has an authentic and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a well-deserved break. On the menu? Spaghetti carbonara, which is reputed to be the house specialty... and we can confirm that it is!

I'm making a reservation at the Buffère refuge

Ski touring - Buffère Refuge - ©C.Tempier

S. Morattel

Afternoon outing La Buffère Trace

La Buffère Trace - Ski touring - ©C.Tempier

Practical information: 500m elevation gain to the Echaillon ridge – 2,578m Marked but unsecured route

In the afternoon, we set off again to try a beautiful route: the Buffère Trace! A 500m climb that takes us to the Echaillon ridge, at 2,578m! A breathtaking panoramic view and a fun descent into the powdery valleys at sunset!

After this intense day, return to the refuge for a convivial moment: a cozy atmosphere, a hearty meal, and a peaceful night's sleep. And the icing on the cake: a panoramic view of the mountains before the next stage.

Day2 Crossing to the Chardonnet refuge and return to Paris

On the second day, we cross over to another refuge: the Chardonnet refuge.

After a hearty breakfast, head for a second refuge. The route alternates between snow-covered forests, with pine and larch trees heavy with snow, and panoramic ridges, offering an immersive and magical experience.

In 1.5 to 2 hours, you will reach a refuge at an altitude of over 2,200 meters, ideal for a gourmet lunch: home cooking, local products, and a mountain atmosphere guaranteed!

Refuge du Chardonnet - Ski touring - ©C.Tempier

In the afternoon, the descent to Névache is gentle. Before departure, we have time to stroll around this charming mountain village before taking the shuttle back to Briançon.

Why try it?

– A weekend getaway without a car
– A sporting adventure accessible to ski touring enthusiasts
– The unique atmosphere of mountain huts
– An eco-friendly option for exploring the Southern Alps

So, are you ready to put on your skis and set off on an adventure?

Would you rather go on an adventure with snowshoes? You can!

You can also reach the Buffère refuge on snowshoes or opt for the Laval refuge at the foot of the Cerces massif.

Reserve at the Laval shelter

C. Tempier – Hautes-Alpes

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