Ski touring in Bessans
Two marked and secured climbing routes
Discover the joys of ski touring at your own pace thanks to the marked trails in Bessans
Claret: a great place to start
Starting from the downhill ski runs, put on your climbing skins and take the Claret route, which offers a gradual and safe introduction to ski touring. It’s the perfect route for beginners, allowing you to enjoy the descent on the slopes or off-piste back to the village.
Le Clot: To Reach New Heights
From the summit of Claret, you can continue on the Clot route, which takes you above 2,000 meters in elevation. Please note: part of the descent on this route is off-piste. Before setting out, check the weather, snow conditions, and avalanche risk.
Guided tours: go with a pro!
Just starting out? Want to improve your skills or head out for a day on more alpine routes? Call on the guides in Bessans. Whether it’s a half-day or full-day trip, an introductory session, a summit climb, or a multi-day trek with overnight stays in mountain huts, there’s something for every skill level.
Safety First
The mountains are a place of freedom and adventure. But before you put on your skins and head off the open, marked trails, always make sure to follow safety guidelines:
- Check the snowpack quality by consulting resort staff, the weather report, and the BERA (Avalanche Risk Assessment Bulletin, which rates the risk on a scale from 1 [low] to 5 [very high]). This is a technical document that you need to know how to read and understand.
- Required equipment: shovel, probe, avalanche transceiver
- Travel with someone else and let at least one person know your itinerary
The easiest option is to hire the resort’s professionals, instructors, and guides, who will ensure your safety as you enjoy the fresh snow and wide-open spaces.
In the mountains, you also have to know when to give up. It can be tempting to set off down an untouched slope, but if safety conditions aren’t right, always err on the side of caution and turn back or choose a less exposed slope.
Averole Mountain Hut and possible long hikes
Ski touring in Bessans isn’t limited to beginner-friendly routes: numerous trails start from the Averole Refuge, the starting point for some of the region’s most beautiful high-altitude tours.
Perched at over 2,500 meters, the refuge provides access to a variety of routes for all skill levels, set against an exceptional alpine backdrop.
Note: TheAverole Mountain Hut is a strategic base for planning multi-day trips. Be sure to check the conditions, make reservations, and pack accordingly. The hut has an unstaffed section. It is generally staffed from mid-March to early May for spring skiing.
Label Terre d'alpinisme
The Bessans Nordic ski area
The Bessans alpine resort
Bessans French Ski School
Play areas
