Nordic site and activities on site: our answers to all your questions!

Many of you have discovered the Nordic site of Peisey-Vallandry in winter 2020/2021. And we understand why... A sumptuous setting, a mountain of possible activities and total rejuvenation! It is therefore normal that such a nugget arouses so much interest. In this article, Peisey-Vallandry has gathered all the questions you asked us last winter so that you too can discover all the riches of our magnificent Nordic site.  
1. Where is the Peisey-Vallandry Nordic site located and how do I get there?
 
The Nordic site of Peisey-Vallandry is located at Pont Baudin in the commune of Peisey-Nancroix. It extends from Pont Baudin to the bottom of the Rosuel valley. It is located in a grandiose setting at the gateway to the Vanoise National Park. To get there, nothing could be easier! There are many free shuttles that run between the different villages of the Peisey-Vallandry destination. The shuttle timetables can be consulted on our website in the "Access and shuttles" section. You can also get to the Nordic site by car. It takes 5 minutes to drive from the resort, 5 minutes from Peisey village and about 15 minutes from Landry.
 
2. What are all the activities offered on site?
 
The Nordic site of Peisey-Vallandry offers a wide range of activities suitable for all age groups. You can explore the valley floor and its surroundings on the snowshoeing and walking trails, or on the cross-country skiing trails with skis on. You can also walk around the site with the animals on dog sleds, reindeer or horseback! If you're more of a thrill-seeker, you'll love being a mountaineer climbing the icefalls or learning about endurance and precision with the biathlon. If you want to share good times with your whole family, you can always opt for the traditional toboggan ride on the luge area or learn to read a map in a fun and rewarding way with the "l'hivernal" orientation course. Finally, if you are a fan of history, you can visit the site of the Palais de la Mine by following the museum trail. 

3. I want to go cross-country skiing. What technique do you recommend to start? Classic or skating?
 
If you want to start off with a good grounding in cross-country skiing, we strongly advise you to begin with an introductory session supervised by instructors. However, if you prefer to discover Nordic skiing independently, we recommend that you start with classic cross-country skiing. The technique is easier to learn than skating because of its movement, which is similar to the sliding walk. As skating consists of a sliding step like an ice skater or roller skater, it requires more effort and is therefore recommended for experienced skiers. Please see our video explaining these two different techniques here.

4. I would like to spend a few hours in the shoes of Martin Fourcade. Can you tell me more about biathlon?
 
Biathlon combines cross-country skiing and rifle shooting. These two disciplines are antagonistic, as one involves intense effort and the other requires calm and concentration. That is the beauty of this discipline! If you would like to learn about biathlon and try your hand at rifle shooting, you can only do so with the ESF of Peisey-Vallandry. More information on the subject here. 
 
5. What is the ideal equipment to spend a day at the Nordic site?
 
It all depends on the activity you want to do. For cross-country skiing, you will need a pair of cross-country skis (classic or skating), a pair of ski boots and a pair of poles. As this is a more cardio intensive activity than downhill skiing, you will need to adapt your equipment to the intensity of your activity. A jacket and light trousers are preferable, especially with the return of the warm weather! For other activities, you can take snowshoes if the snow conditions require it, otherwise mountain boots are sufficient. And don't forget the sledges for the little ones, as well as a backpack with water, a pair of glasses, sun cream and a snack!
 
6. Where can I hire my equipment (cross-country skis, sledges and snowshoes)?
 
The Peisey-Vallandry Nordic Centre offers snowshoe and cross-country ski hire for half a day or a day only. However, no reservations are possible! Two other sports shops in the resort offer cross-country ski hire: Skimium and Vallandry Sports Go Sport. As for the Centre Nordique, no reservations are possible and the number of pairs available is limited. As for snowshoes and sledges, all our sports shops offer them for hire. 

7. I want to go cross-country skiing, where can I buy my ski pass?
 
As a reminder, the purchase of a ski pass is compulsory for cross-country skiing. You can buy your half-day or full-day ski pass directly at the Pont Baudin Nordic Centre at the same time as you rent your equipment. It is not possible to buy your ski pass by the week; only by the half-day or the day. 

8. I would like to take cross-country skiing lessons, who should I contact?
 
You can book ski lessons directly at the Centre Nordique with the ESF of Peisey-Vallandry. They can be private or group lessons and are available from 5 years old.
 
9. Are there public toilets on the Nordic site?
 
Yes, they are located at the Nordic Centre.
 
10. Are there any restaurants on the Nordic site?
 
Yes, Le Fer à Cheval and Le Petit Hibou are open and offer menus, drinks and snacks to take away or enjoy on site. 
 
11. How many ski runs does the Peisey-Vallandry Nordic site have?
 
The Nordic site of Peisey-Vallandry has 13 cross-country ski runs ranging from the green run (easy) to the black run (difficult). In total: 43 km of pure skiing! See the map of the trails here.
 
12. How many hiking routes are available on the Nordic site?
 
There are 8 snowshoeing and walking routes on the Peisey-Vallandry Nordic site. Consult the map of the walks here. 

13. Can I observe animals on site? 
 
Of course you can! Whether you are on your own or with mountain guides who offer wildlife observation sessions with a spyglass, you will not fail to observe animals in their natural environment. We strongly advise you to take a pair of binoculars with you and take a look in the air to try to spot an eagle or a bearded vulture, but also in the mountains to catch a glimpse of ibex, chamois and deer among the foliage of nature. You'll be amazed!

14. Are there any activities on offer at the Nordic site? 

Many activities are offered throughout the winter season: igloo building, musical walks, animal watching, etc. 
 
15. Are dogs allowed on the Nordic site?
 
Yes, but only on footpaths and on condition that they are kept on a lead. It is important not to disturb the wildlife or the sledges.
 
16. Is there accommodation near the Nordic site?
 
Yes, there are several! Please consult our Reservation Centre here to see all the properties available for rent near the Nordic site. Our accommodation consultants will be happy to help you in your search.
Editor: Sahra Ronc
Photo credits: OTPV