Ski touring is not just a sport; it’s an adventure that combines physical exertion with the serenity of the mountains. It offers a unique way to explore the alpine wilderness, far from the crowded slopes and bustling ski resorts.
Consensio sat down with the experts from the Elite Ski Team, renowned for their ski touring lessons in the French Alps, to learn more about this exhilarating winter activity.
The Essence of Ski Touring
Unlike traditional downhill skiing, ski touring is about the journey up the mountain. It’s a slower, more meditative approach, allowing you to connect with nature and enjoy the surroundings. As the Elite Ski Team explained, it lets you climb up special slopes and paths, offering a peaceful escape from the resort’s hustle and bustle. For the experts, it’s an opportunity to ski off-piste in search of pristine powder snow on the descent.
Essential Gear for the Adventure
Ski touring requires specific equipment. The skis are lighter and equipped with “skins” (peaux de phoques) that attach under the skis for uphill treks. The bindings differ to facilitate comfortable walking, and the poles are adjustable. Lightweight, flexible boots are used, and for off-piste adventures, safety equipment like a beeper (DVA), a probe, a shovel, and sometimes an ABS airbag are essential.
Elite Ski Team’s Unique Offerings
Elite Ski Team provides instructors to help you master ski touring and familiarise you with the equipment. They guide you through various itineraries, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Besides the physical aspect, Elite Ski Team offers a “Mountain Therapy” programme, which transforms it into a meditative exercise, promoting relaxation, mindfulness, and a deeper connection with nature.
Unexpected Joys
The beauty lies in its ability to take you into the wilderness, away from the crowds, offering a sense of solitude and connection with the environment. It’s an excellent way to improve cardiovascular fitness, expand your knowledge of the area, and venture further into the mountains.
Ideal Locations
Every ski resort has backcountry areas suitable for ski touring, offering numerous routes to explore. You can also venture beyond the resorts into the vast alpine wilderness. We recommend exploring the 3 valleys in France – this is where the Elite Ski Team are based, so you can explore confidently with an experienced guide.
Getting Started
For those considering it, the advice from Elite Ski Team is simple:
Don’t hesitate, and ensure you have the right instructor to guide you.
To book a lesson with the Elite Ski Team, you can reach out via phone/WhatsApp at +33 (0)662 039 402 or email them at contact@eliteskitravel.com.
In conclusion, ski touring offers a unique way to experience the mountains, blending physical activity with the tranquillity of nature. Whether you’re looking to explore the wild parts of the mountains or simply try something new, ski touring with Elite Ski Team in the French Alps promises an adventure you won’t forget.