10 places to make snowmobile in the Alps

For the winter holiday, are you looking for an atypical activity? Here are the best places to make snowmobile in the Alps.

Snowmobile in the heart of the Alps? What a funny idea! We always imagine that these machines are reserved for the mountains of Alaska or runways Canada but no. It is possible to find places where to make snowmobile in the Alps, at home.

And it’s very easy: the vast majority of ski resorts offer this activity from December to April. In general, the ski areas are open to snowmobiles as soon as the slopes are closed, around 5 pm. These have the free field for zigzaguer on snowy slopes for two or three hours.

Afterwards, the ladies take over and come to flatten the slopes to guarantee the skiers a smooth surface. We have chosen to introduce you to ten of the most friendly spots to try the snowmobile in the heart of the Alps. Ideal to enjoy the mountain without effort and safely!

1. La Plagne

Find Alexis, the snowmobile monitor of La Plagne for a night motorized hike. This unforgettable activity is carried out on snowy trails and marked trails in the heart of the melezes. Because of its privileged location, La Plagne is one of the most beautiful places to make snowmobile in the Alps.

Four departures are planned each day: 5:00 p.m., 6:10 p.m., 7.20 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. After a concise briefing, you will leave for 12 kilometers of unique sensations in the middle of the night. The view is exceptional on the different stations of La Plagne illuminated.

2. Fontcouverte-la-Allsuire

Fontcouverte-la-Allsuire is a splendid French commune located in the department of La Savoie. This mountain village of the Arvan-Villards massif, in Maurienne, is one of the best places to make snowmobiles in the Alps.

You will enjoy the presence of a guide to get away from the beaten paths safely. On the heights of the resort, the hiking trails are transformed into turbulent trails. Here, even the smaller ones have the right to make snowmobile! A closed circuit and suitable machines are offered to them provided they are between 6 and 13 years old.

3. Pra-Loup

Pra-Loup is definitely one of the most beautiful resorts in the South Alps. In the summer you come to enjoy hiking, paragliding or live water sports. And winter skiing, snowboarding and even... snowmobiling! It is a fabulous place to make snowmobile in the Alps.

The site lends itself especially with its lizard trails in the mountain. He is even one of the most beautiful in Europe. A new feature: Snowbike is available. This transformed motocross with a caterpillar breaks the codes and allows access to more crowded places.

What are you waiting for in the winter season?

4. Les Deux Alpes

Why don't you make snowmobiles in the Alps in the Two Alps? It’s an excellent activity to change some of the sempiteral ski descents. In any case, you can link these two activities as snowmobile departures occur at night.

Head behind the rink, at the foot of the tracks, for a circuit of about 15 km on the heights of the station up to 2,500 m. For one hour, it’s four departures a day from 6 p.m. you’ll have plenty of time to admire the view of the Two Alps!

5. Vars/Risoul

The ski area of the White Forest is shared by the municipalities of Vars and Risoul, in the Hautes-Alpes . The place is sunny all year round and makes the happiness of lovers of large spaces. To go through these, you can opt for mountain biking, walking or cross-country skiing.

But we can also choose a more powerful equipment! Riding snowmobiles in the Alps in Vars and Risoul, it is discovering splendid landscapes in the heart of the Queyras Regional Natural Park. This sumptuous show must then be praised by a good cup of hot wine in the resort. Well, if you manage to let go of your handlebars, of course!

6. Arâches-la-Frasse

Funny name for a station! Making snowmobile in Arâches is enjoying the experience of a dedicated guide. It will lead you on forest trails in the heart of the Grand Massif. Flaine , Samoëns and Morillon will be crossed before you stop at the top of the Carroz to enjoy a sublime view of the immaculate massifs.

It’s all la Chaîne des Aravis , Megève, Combloux or Faucigny who offer themselves to your enchanted eyes! Do you see this lake in the form of a crescent far? Yes, it is indeed Lake Geneva...

As for the cold, don’t be afraid: the handles of your bolide are heated.

7. Alpe d’Huez

During your next holiday, why not go snowmobiling in the Alps... of Huez? The resort simply offers the largest snowmobile park in the alpine massif. You will have all the time to discover it during a hike to the summits at 2,500 m altitude.

The ideal thing is to do with your loved ones: you can race under the benevolent eye of your guide. This will ensure your safety and will allow you to progress smoothly. Our advice? Choose the “Rando Evasion”, whose route is followed by a succulent typical meal in altitude chalet.

8. Val Thorens

Val Tho’ is the paradise for lovers of glide. In this savoyard station, one can even learn to the strong sensations offered by snow scooters. Snowmobiling in the Alps is good, but in Val Thorens it’s better! Three departures are scheduled daily at 5:30 p.m., 6:45 p.m. and 7:55 p.m.

Thus, you will be able to explore this sublime setting that is the Tarentaise valley at night. You can be accompanied by a guide if you wish to detach yourself from the group and be even more free during your getaway. Once back, it will be wise to go to the station instead of Caron. Restaurants await you for a well-deserved convivial moment!

9. Méribel

Making snowmobiles in the Alps in Meribel is enjoying what the Savoie has better. From day to night, you can walk along the slopes and trails of the ski area of the 3 Vallées. The latter is located in the heart of the Vanoise National Park, known for its sparkling beauty.

You will have the opportunity to cross amazing animals in the wildest parts. The marmots hibernate but chamois, bouquetins and eagles are part.

The little plus? While the big ones have fun, the little ones can also discover this unforgettable activity. A dedicated and perfectly secure circuit is offered to them: it fits everybody, right?

10. The Orres

The Orres, in the Hautes-Alpes, are a great spot for everything about winter sports. Moreover, the resort is renowned for its beautiful ski area with a human size. To better understand the specificities of the latter, board a snowmobile!

You will devaluate snowy slopes, wander among the conifers and slit the powder under the starry sky. Do not be afraid, the lights are specially designed to perfectly illuminate your trajectory.

A trailer is even specially adapted for your bambins if you come with a family: rather cool, right?

Practical information

Rates

Practice snowmobiling in the Alps remains quite expensive. If you choose to call a company, count 100€ average time per snowmobile. The rates are degressive as part of a half day hike.

Tip: you can take a passenger with you and share the cost. These rates are quite similar to each other, regardless of the station chosen. In addition, a deposit will be requested: these machines are efficient, playful, but expensive!

Additional information

Here are some additional information before you decide to make snowmobile in the Alps:

• Think about it. hot ski clothes. After-ski gloves and shoes as well as a mask are also essential. The NF helmet will be provided by the agency;
• This sporting activity remains weather conditions. In case of heavy snowfall or blizzard, it is likely to be postponed. In addition, the season depends on snow... some times, in March, it is already too late!
• You must have at least 18 years but good news: permit B is not not mandatory as a general rule;
• Children are generally permitted from age 8 (as passengers, of course).
• A reservation is necessary during high affluence periods;
• Be sure to follow the instructions given to make the most of this extraordinary moment!