Ski touring, an adventure within reach.
Leave the lifts, and the crowds, behind.
REQUEST YOUR ITINERARYSki touring is more accessible than it looks: with the right itinerary, it isn't just for experts. Around Val d'Isère and Tignes, the choice runs from gentle introductory climbs to full days on skins, and your instructor or mountain guide plans the route around your level, fitness and pace.
Choosing the right outing
Ski touring offers very different days out, so the right outing starts with your level, your experience and what you want from the day.
If you are unsure which outing is right for you, tell us what you usually ski and how long an ascent you feel comfortable with. We will help you identify a suitable first outing.
Three kinds of outing
Ski touring for beginners
This outing is for skiers who are new to ski touring, not necessarily to skiing: you do not need to have toured before, although for most outings you should already be comfortable skiing off-piste. A gentle ascent gives you time to learn the basics: how the skins work, how to find a steady rhythm and how to turn on the way up. The descent is on terrain suited to the group. It is a good way to find out whether ski touring is for you.
A longer day in the mountains
For skiers already comfortable off-piste. The route is selected on the day, taking the snow and weather conditions into account. It combines a longer ascent with a descent away from the lifts.
A more demanding objective
A summit, a glacier or a longer route. These outings are planned in advance, taking into account fitness, timing and equipment. Outings on unmarked glacier terrain, or on terrain that calls for mountaineering techniques, are led by a mountain guide.
What to expect during the day
The ascent takes time, and the pace is different from a day on the pistes. The group moves at a pace that suits everyone, with pauses along the way. The descent is chosen according to the conditions and the group’s ability.
A typical outing lasts a full day. Conditions — not ambition — set the plan for the day.
A break along the way
After the climb, the group stops for a bite to eat.
It is a chance to catch your breath, take in the view and share a relaxed moment together before the descent.
Level, age and group size
Level and fitness
For most outings, you should be reasonably comfortable skiing off-piste and have a good general level of fitness. The level required also depends on the season: ski touring on spring snow is generally more accessible than in powder. The ascent requires a steady pace, adapted to the group, and the touring technique is explained during the outing.
Children
Children can take part from the age of 8, because ski-touring equipment for younger children is very hard to find.
They need a solid skiing level, as for any off-piste outing, to try a little ski touring.
For children aged 8 and over, we can lend a pair of children’s touring skis from Völkl, our partner brand, subject to availability.
Group size
Our off-piste group policy also applies to ski touring: a maximum of five clients per instructor or mountain guide.
Equipment
Touring skis, boots and skins can be rented locally. We can help you arrange the rental.
For children aged 8 and over who are ready to try ski touring, a pair of children’s touring skis may be available to borrow, subject to availability. Children’s touring equipment can be difficult to find locally.
Avalanche safety equipment (transceiver, shovel, probe and airbag pack) can be provided on request, subject to availability.
Conditions and decisions
Ski touring takes place away from the pistes and lifts, in terrain that is not patrolled or secured. Avalanche conditions, wind, temperature and visibility all influence the route and may mean turning back.
Your instructor or mountain guide assesses the conditions and discusses the plan with you throughout the outing.
Questions before you begin
Can I try ski touring without previous experience?
Yes. You do not need to have toured before. An introductory outing includes a gentle ascent, time to learn the basics and a descent on terrain suited to the group.
What skiing level and fitness do I need?
For most outings, you should be reasonably comfortable skiing off-piste and have a good general level of fitness. The season matters too: ski touring on spring snow is generally more accessible than in powder.
From what age can children try ski touring?
Children can take part from the age of 8. A pair of children's touring skis may be available to borrow, subject to availability.
Can I rent ski-touring equipment?
Yes. Touring skis, boots and skins can be rented locally. We can help you arrange the rental.
How many clients can join a ski touring outing?
Our off-piste group policy applies: a maximum of five clients per instructor or mountain guide.
Do you only cover Val d’Isère?
Our network covers Val d'Isère, Tignes, and the Tarentaise valley more broadly.
What if my group has mixed levels?
Tell us the full range. We can arrange one instructor experienced in mixed-level teaching, or coordinate separate instructors so the group can spend as much of the day together as possible.
Skiing with children? Read our parent's guide to skiing with children in Val d'Isère & Tignes.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Cancellation on weather grounds alone isn't accepted, since most conditions are still skiable with the right terrain choice. Your instructor will adapt the day rather than cancel it. An exception is made only in cases of force majeure or a full closure of lifts across the sector.