Discover the Vallons de la Meije on off-piste skis with Hôtel Le Faranchin

There are no marked or groomed pistes here, just off-piste itineraries that attract skiers, snowboarders and telemarkers from all over the world in search of new experiences!

The 2 classic freeride itineraries are the Vallons de La Meije and the Vallons de Chancel. Departure point is at 3550 or 3200 meters above sea level at Col des Ruillans, where you'll find the finish of the second section of the Glacier Ropeways of La Meije.

This route follows the various valleys formed by the moraines of the former Râteau and La Meije glaciers. Starting at 3200m, we glide down to La Grave, with a possible return to P1 or 2400m.

Technically not very difficult, altitude difference between 1800 and 2150 meters of Pure Happiness.

It's here, in the land of the Meije, that the doors to the end of the world open.

5 days / 4 nights / 3 days of activity

▶ Day 1 - Arrival :
Installation, equipment pick-up if rented and aperitif with your guide depending on your arrival time, meal at the hotel.

▶ Day 2 - Vallons de Chancel:
Departure is from the top of the second section of the Glaciers de La Meije 3200m cable car.
We can glide down to the La Romanche river 1400m via various couloirs or return to P1 1700m.
The Chancel valleys are the most accessible descents in the La Grave area. The slopes are gentle and steady above the Puy Vachier lake.
The Refuge de Chancel is at 2508m, where a good meal awaits you with a panoramic view of the different couloirs.

▶ Day 3 - Vallon de la Selle:
This is a short trip to the high mountains. Depart from the summit of the Dôme de la Lauze at 3568m, which you'll reach by leaving from the cable car arrival station at 3200m, then taking the poles onto the Lauze glacier.
This off-piste descent will take you to the village of Saint Christophe en Oisans, in the Vénéon valley at 1440m.
This freeride outing at La Grave is one of the more accessible descents, provided you enter the slope at the right time.

Departure after this second day



This program is given as an indication only and may be modified according to weather and snow conditions.

Off-piste skiing requires a minimum of technique. A 3-star level is required for this trip. You need to be in good physical condition. You should be comfortable on red and black runs.