Ski touring from Besse-en-Oisans

The village of Besse is a lovely starting point, not only on account of its picturesque, snowy lanes, but also its geographic position, offering a host of possibilities around the village.

SUGGESTIONS FOR SKI-TOURING
> Discovery day routes :
- La Quarlie (2314 m) + 800 m
Easy ski-touring starting at the village. A lovely climb up the south-west face via the Bonnefin oratory. Take care however because these are all grassy slopes and can be prone to avalanches.
- Col de Sarenne (1999 m) + 600 m
A discovery route up to the Col de Sarenne. You can follow the summer road or else climb up the east-facing slopes to the Col.
> Classic day route
- Tête du Vallon (2582 m) + 1150 m
La Tête du Vallon passe dans un premier temps par l’itinéraire de la Quarlie. Suivre ensuite la croupe en direction nord est jusqu’au sommet. Belle sortie facile, attention aux conditions de neige, les pentes exclusivement herbeuse (ou en ardoises) peuvent s'avérer délicates.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION
> Getting supplies: Besse and Mizöen: Grocer's, bar and restaurants. Auberge in Clavans le Haut.
> Accommodation: Besse et Mizoën: hotels and gîtes.
Clavans: auberge, B&Bs and gîtes.

PLATEAU D'EMPARIS SECTOR
This small part of Les Grandes Rousses is one of the "great" for ski touring discovery. Around le Signal de l'Homme, le col de Sarenne or on le plateau d'Emparis : sun, panorama and gentle slopes. A big resort, a more intimate one or a mountain village: as many possible points of departure;
Le plateau d’Emparis : resembling Arctic tundra and located between the Grandes Rousses and the Ecrins, this plateau is a unique place in Oisans and even in Europe, since it is home to a number of outstanding wet zones. The peat bogs form a contrast to the minerality of Oisans and are included in the Natura 2000 biodiversity preservation network. The view of the Meije and the Râteau from the Col du Souchet is breathtaking and perhaps one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the Alps. As there are few access routes from either side, the sector remains magnificently untamed and little visited.

/!\ IMPORTANT
Ski mountaineering and touring involves risks and all skiers are responsible for their own safety. Make sure you follow ANENA guidelines: anena.org