UTracks introduces snowshoeing and ski touring breaks
European activity holidays specialist UTracks is about to launch its first-ever selection of winter breaks. Starting in December, the new itineraries give travellers a chance to experience the exhilaration of snowshoeing or ski touring amidst some of Europe’s most dramatic winter landscapes.
Auvergne Winter Week (8 days)
A fine balance of activity and indulgence and an ideal trip for lovers of good food, mountain landscapes and the camaraderie of other travellers. Based in a converted convent, where your host will immerse you in French culture and old-fashioned hospitality, you will have the opportunity to experience the rugged mountains and authentic hamlets of the unspoiled Auvergne region. Whether you prefer to snowshoe or ski, each day the choice is yours. Warm lunches are provided as a picnic or in a local Inn, while in the evening you can explore the village, relax by the fire, take a sauna or visit the kitchen to witness the preparation of the local ‘grande cuisine’.
PRICE: from £530 per person
DEPARTS: 27 December, 13 February, 20 February, 27 March
Mont Blanc Snowshoe Adventure (7 days)
With many winter enthusiasts rediscovering snowshoeing, use this modern lightweight footwear as an alternative way to explore the stunning scenery of the Alps. Your guide will take you through forest trails, skirting glaciers and ascending mountain slopes, to experience the highlights of the Mont Blanc region. Each night you will return to your comfortable gîte (mountain cottage), to relax by the fire and enjoy traditional alpine cuisine. Also available is a combination snowshoe/thermal spa experience in St Gervais, with five treatments over three sessions during the week.
PRICE: from £470 per person
DEPARTS: Every Sunday from 7 December to 19 April
Ski Touring In The Dolomites (7 days)
A new dimension of winter wonderland awaits you on this ski touring loop amongst the mighty peaks of the Dolomites. Cross Italy's fabled old country in true alpine touring style and enjoy unsurpassed long descents down beautiful snow-laden valleys as you ski through soft virgin powder snow. There is as much fun to be had off the slopes, where you will have the chance to make the most of the sumptuous local cuisine, the charismatic Italian culture and the charming mix of small boutique hotels and rifugios (mountain refuges) in which you’ll stay along the way.
PRICE: £1,480
DEPARTS: 4 January, 18 January, 1 February, 15 February, 1 March, 15 March, 29 March
Haute Route Ski Tour (8 days)
Haute Route Ski Tour is one of the most dramatic skiing experiences in Europe. First travelled in January 1924 by Dr Payot, this challenging traverse between the Mt Blanc massif and the Valaisannes Alps remains a point of reference in the catalogue of famous alpine routes. Winding through the highest, most spectacular peaks of the Alps, it offers breathtaking winter scenery, most notably on the arrival in the picturesque Zermatt resort, at the foot of the north face of the Matterhorn, famed as one of the great north faces of the Alps. Although not a technically demanding tour, a good level of physical conditioning and a competent standard of ski touring are required.
PRICE: £1,520
DEPARTS: Weekly on Sundays from 14 March to 2 May 2010
Book your 2010 UTracks trip before 31 December 2009 and save 5%.
Quoted prices are inclusive of accommodation, most meals, equipment rental, experienced mountain guides, luggage transfers between hotels (where applicable) and clear maps with images. Flights from the UK are not included but can be booked on request.
For bookings and more information go to UTracks.com.
