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--- Alps FAQs ---

  • How fit do you need to be?
    All our courses and activities require a reasonable level of fitness. Previous hill-walking experience is a plus. Activities will be tailored to suit your requirements and ability. However, with the huge variety of terrain in the region we guarantee that there is something for everyone. Please contact us should you need any advice on this matter.
  • Equipment:
     For day trips and courses, basic walking equipment is required:
    • Walking boots with good ankle support
    • Full waterproofs (jacket and over-trousers)
    • Walking trousers
    • Layered warm clothing such as breathable tops, fleeces
    • Gloves and warm hat
    • Day pack
    • Packed lunch and water bottle
    • Walking poles
    • Sunglasses and goggles
      On the majority of activities/courses, technical equipment will be provided, but clients are welcome to bring their own.
  • Acclimatisation:
    Le Chazelet is at an altitude of 1800m - whilst not that high most people notice the thinner air on arrival. Initial activities will be in the valley around 1400m although after a day you will ready to go higher. We may go to heights of 3400m but mainly the walks range from 1500-3000m.
  • Weather:
     The Ecrins Alpine region experiences a drier and warmer climate than the other more northerly alpine regions. Summer temperatures can be fairly hot in the valleys, though much cooler at altitude and afternoon thunderstorms are not uncommon. Winter is often clear and cold although the ample sunshine makes for pleasant walking conditions.
  • Other activities:
     In addition to walking and snowshoeing there are opportunities to rock climb, via ferrata, raft, mountain bike, horse ride, ski, snowboard, ski tour, paraglide and ice climb. We can arrange any of the activities in conjunction with local guides and activity providers.
  • Group v Private guiding:
    Whilst we endeavour to provide group dates for all activities, at certain times we can only provide private guiding. If you have a definite goal or agenda in mind then Private guiding is the answer.
  • Alpine huts:
     There are numerous mountain huts and refuges in the area. It is possible (and recommended) to experience an overnight stay sometime during your trip. The costs vary but are generally not that expensive.
  • Getting to the French Alps - go to Travel Information
  • Types of Accommodation:
    We usually provide self catering accommodation in local Gites but there are a full range of options from camping through to hotels. Just let us know your preference and we will arrange the details.
  • Flora and Fauna
    The Ecrins National Park is host to many rare animals, birds and plants. Common encounters includes marmot, chamois, bouqueton (ibex), golden and imperial eagle, crossbill, chough and numerous plants and flowers.
  • Insurance Cover
     Safety is the primary concern of Hebridean Pathways throughout any activity. To ensure this, all clients agree to act upon any request or action that our leaders believe appropriate. Clients must accept that mountain activities are potentially hazardous and thereby acknowledge some risk. All under 18's must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
    Hebridean Pathways accepts no liability for loss, personal injury, or accident caused by any person (or personal equipment) during our activities or resultant of them. We therefore strongly recommend you take out your own insurance cover for accident recovery (helicopter rescue is not free in the Alps), equipment, personal injury or cancellation. Please see our Links section.
  • Bad Weather and Fitness Disclaimer
     In the event of bad weather (yes, sometimes this does occur in the Alps), every effort will be made to continue with the planned itinerary. Clients must therefore be prepared to go out in cold, wet, windy conditions and carry/wear suitable clothing for such conditions.
    However, if the weather conditions are deemed to jeopardise safety on any planned activity, an alternative will be offered. In the case of snowshoe activities, this may be in the form of a low-level walk, nordic ski or alternative activity. If conditions are so bad as to make any planned activity unsafe (or un-enjoyable) and no alternative is available, a full credit day will be offered.
    If at any time the Guide/Leader feels that safety is a concern due to the fitness of a client, the activity may be amended to suit. This ensures that safety is preserved whilst maintaining full enjoyment of the alpine scenery.
    If you are in any doubt regarding fitness, equipment or general conditions, please do not hesitate to contact us at any time.