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Pyrenean Snowshoeing Mini-breakNot sure if you will enjoy snowshoeing? - these short breaks are the perfect introduction to this fun winter activity. |
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Affordable short break to the
mountains |
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notes on week-long trip To
other winter holidays |
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What is snowshoeing?A basic form of snowshoe, made from hazel twigs and cat gut, has been used by man for many thousands of years for getting about on snow covered lands. The principle of increasing the surface area to reduce sinking is not rocket science, but modern materials have revolutionised the sport, making the snowshoe a versatile ‘all mountain’ bit of kit complete with a ‘free heel’ and crampon style points. The technique is easy to master (and you will be given any instruction needed), opening up the snow covered mountains which were previously the domain of the highly skilled back country skier. Free from the constraints of footpaths and vegetation, we can wander along undulating ridges, through thick forests and over frozen lakes. Is this trip for me?If enjoy being outdoors, and like walking, then this is definitely a winter activity you should try - it takes you to the unexplored corners of stunning winter landscapes, with breathtaking views and hilarious descents by snowshoe or toboggan. These minibreak options provide us with a unrivalled introduction into this winter activity - You will love it! 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 most days there is over 500m of uphill. For more of an idea about the kind of walks you will be doing, have a look at the itinerary below though please note that this is flexible depending on the needs of the group and the weather conditions locally. 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 on snow. If you have any questions about whether this trip is the one for you, then please do not hesitate to contact us. Why choose Marmot Tours?Marmot Tours has been running snowshoeing trips for over 6 years and prides itself on knowing what it is that makes a good activity holiday, not just in terms of leading you in the activity itself, but also in terms of organising the other aspects of your trip. Your guide, James Thompson, is the director of Marmot Tours, and a qualified International Mountain Leader. He loves nothing more than exploring the white winter landscapes by snowshoe, always with a toboggan handy for some speedy and great fun descents. Living locally, James knows the mountains around Ax les Thermes, your base for the week, intimately, and so can tailor the holiday perfectly to the needs of the group, and the snow conditions. He will be able to give you plenty of information about the local natural environment and aspects of winter safety. James will carry all the equipment necessary to safeguard the group. HOLIDAY ITINERARY
DATESWeds 9 Dec - Sun 13 Dec 2009 (Trip code SFW I50)Weds 17 Mar - Sun 21 Mar 2010 (Trip code SFW J12) HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?This trip costs £385. Flights are not included but can be picked up 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.WHAT DOES THE PRICE INCLUDE?3 days guided walks with a qualified Mountain Leader. Snowshoe and poles hire. Airport Transfers (specified times only). Private vehicle support during the weekend. 4 nights in comfortable and friendly 2* hotel, 4 evening meals, 4 breakfasts, 3 picnic lunches.
WHERE DO WE STAY?We stay in the Hotel Terminus, a family run 2 star hotel which provides us with a comfortable base and where our hosts Alain and Elizabeth offer us a warm welcome. They are proud to serve up delicious evening meals using meat and vegetables from local producers. The rooms are large and all have a window overlooking the river Ariège. The hotel is a 5 minute walk from the centre of Ax les Thermes, opposite the railway station. Each room has an en-suite bathroom, as well as a telephone and television. The kitchen produces excellent authentic Pyrenean dishes. Accommodation is normally allocated on a twin share basis. There is a supplement of £65 for single room occupancy, which must be arranged on booking.FOODSubstantial continental style breakfasts are provided at the Hotel Terminus. Comprehensive picnic lunches will be provided on the full walking days which you will be expected to carry with you. The evenings meals are taken in the popular hotel restaurant, where we will be served traditional French cuisine of a high standard. Vegetarians are welcome and will be looked after very well. Wine and coffee/tea are not included.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 leading safe and enjoyable snowshoeing holidays since 1999. 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 best way to use the snowshoes will naturally be given (just walk!). James will carry all the equipment necessary to safeguard the group.
GROUPThere is a maximum of 12 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 snowshoeing weekend you transferred to and from the
walk start points in a 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.
Daily transfers
will be from 30 to 45 mins each way.
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