French Alps climbing holiday, short break

Planet

CARBON REDUCTION

The trip is based entirely within the Écrins National Park and can be reached by public transport. Participants can travel by train to L'Argentière-la-Bessée or Embrun, where our local guide can collect them on the way to the trailhead, reducing the need for individual car journeys.

Once in the mountains, the holiday is entirely human-powered. Over three days, all travel is on foot, with no lifts or motorised transport used during the mountaineering programme. We also plant a tree on behalf of every traveller as part of our wider commitment to reducing the environmental impact of our holidays.

The mountain refuges provide locally prepared meals using seasonal ingredients wherever possible, and vegetarian options are available throughout the trip.

ENVIRONMENT AND WILDLIFE

This holiday takes place within the protected Écrins National Park. Our guides brief participants on the park regulations and Leave No Trace principles, including staying on established routes where appropriate, carrying out all litter and respecting wildlife and sensitive alpine habitats.

We work exclusively with experienced local UIAGM mountain guides who have an excellent understanding of the mountain environment and current conditions. Throughout the trip, they share their knowledge of the park's glaciers, geology, flora and wildlife, helping clients better appreciate and protect this remarkable landscape.

People

LOCAL ECONOMY

The trip includes overnight stays in two independently managed high mountain refuges, directly supporting the local refuge guardians whose livelihoods depend on responsible mountain tourism. We also use local transport services and suppliers wherever possible.

All guiding is provided by qualified local UIAGM mountain guides who live and work in the region, ensuring that the economic benefits of the trip remain within the local mountain communities.

EMPLOYMENT, INCLUSIVITY AND DIVERSITY

We employ fully qualified local mountain professionals and pay fair commercial rates for their expertise. By working with local guides rather than bringing in guides from outside the region, we help support year-round employment and maintain specialist mountain skills within the Southern French Alps.

We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all travellers, regardless of gender, nationality, ethnicity or sexual orientation. Participation on this trip is determined solely by the physical requirements of high-altitude mountaineering and the ability to undertake the itinerary safely.