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Snowshoe Weekend in the PyreneesNot sure if you will enjoy snowshoeing? - this weekend is the perfect introduction. |
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2 days in the winter mountains. |
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other winter holidays |
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OVERVIEWThe mountains in winter are fantastic. If skiing is not for you, why miss out on this amazing landscape? Snowshoes provide us with an 'easy to master solution' to the problem of getting about on the white fluffy stuff. The views are breathtaking and the descents hilarious. This long weekend provides us with a unrivaled introduction into this winter activity - You will love it!The week is based in the Spa town of Ax-Les-Thermes, just north of Andorra. Ax is located in the warmth of the picturesque Ariège valley. It has a unique road network which enables us to drive high and explore the "real mountains" with our snowshoes! We stay in a comfortable private lodge just outside Ax where Alan provides us with fine food and a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. . Ax itself has been inhabited since Roman times, due to its thermal springs which still flow freely down the streets. It is now a popular base for summer and winter activity holidays enhancing its charm with lots of interesting shops, restaurants and lively bars. On the day off, you take to the downhill ski slopes or take an aerial view of town from a paraglider. Those wanting to relax could take the train to the medieval town of Foix. The week is led by James Thompson a qualified International Mountain Leader (IML) who has made his home in the valley. He is passionate about the region, its wildlife and forests. He has over 5 years of experience of leading snowshoeing trips IS THIS TRIP FOR ME?The trip is aimed at anyone who wants to have a bit of fun in the snow. A reasonable level of fitness is required as on the walking days there will be over 500m of uphill. If you like summer walking in the lakes, or peaks, then you will enjoy this trip. All you need a good pair of walking boots and a desire to have fun. It is important to us that people book the correct trip. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have have any doubts.
DATESThere are no dates planned for this trip in 2008. Please contact us if you have a few friends who may be interested.HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?The holiday costs £320, starting at Toulouse Airport. Flights are not included but can be picked up very cheaply if booked in advance. Allow about £30 for drinks depending on your thirst. Please note that we offer a 5% discount if you book more than 3 months before the departure date. We also offer group and loyalty discounts. More Info >>WHAT DOES THE PRICE INCLUDE?2 days guided walks with a qualified Mountain Leader. Snowshoe and poles hire. Airport Transfers (specified times only). Private vehicle support during the weekend. 3 nights in thermal spa Hotel. 3 evening meals, 3 breakfasts, 2 picnic lunches.
WHERE DO WE STAY?We stay in L'Alpage, a comfortable Chalet / Lodge 15 min walk uphill from the center of Ax. Alan, our host, creates a warm and relaxed atmosphere in his beautiful house. The spacious lounge and bar opens on to a panoramic south facing terrace - the perfect place to relax with glass of vin chaud at the end of a great day in the hills! Accommodation is normally allocated on a twin share basis with shared facilities.FOOD3 substantial continental style breakfasts are included. Comprehensive picnic lunches will be provided on the 2 walking days which you will be expected to carry with you. The evenings meals are taken at the lodge, where we will be served regional specialties such as Confit du canard and Cassoulet. A moderate amount of wine is included with these meals.. Vegetarians are welcome and will be looked after very well.GUIDING AND INSTRUCTION You be accompanied by James Thompson, a qualified Mountain Leader and member of BAIML (British Association of International Mountain Leaders). James has 5 years of experience in leading safe and enjoyable snowshoing trips. He is passionate about the area and throughout the week will offer informal lectures about the mountains, nature and aspects of winter safety. Instruction on the the best way to use the snowshoes will naturally given (just walk!). James will carry all the equipment necessary to safeguard the group.
GROUPThere is a maximum of 8 people (minimum 2) plus James on this holiday. Bookings from single people are welcome as activity holidays are a great way to make new friends.
Throughout the trip you transferred to and from the walk start points
in a Private minibus. James has lots of experience
of driving in snowy conditions. The bus is naturally fitted with snow
tyres and chains are carried. The unique road network around Ax means
that we can drive high and gain good views with minimum effort. Transfers
will be from 30 to 45 mins each way.
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| HOLIDAY ITINERARY | |
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NOTES |
The itinerary remains flexible to accommodate differing snow conditions and the desires of the group. To get an idea of the kind of walks that are available please look at the notes for the full week of snowshoeing. It would be possible to spend a month exploring the area without retracing you foot steps, so there are plenty of excellent walks to chose from. |
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DAY 1 |
Transfer 1hr 30mins from Toulouse airport to our Lodge in Ax-les-Thermes. |
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DAY 2 / 3 |
On both days we will take a short transfer up to the snow line. The walks will be chosen to get the best from the climatic conditions, but we can expect to be walking in an amazing landscape with good views. |
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DAY 4 |
Time to leave. After breakfast we transfer to Toulouse airport |
