My first family trek in front of the Meije glaciers

Forests, mountain pastures, lakes, marmots, chamois and eagles are all ingredients for unforgettable memories. Facing the glaciers of the Meije, your little ones will experience the joys of backpacking for the first time. The week ends on a high note, with a chance to reach the glaciers at 3200m.

A 6-day stay with walking times of 3h30 to 6h.

• Day 1: From La Grave to Besse-en-Oisans

Departure from La Grave at 5:30pm (Col du Lautaret on the Romanche side)

Transfer by cab to Besse-en-Oisans.

• Day 2: Besse-en-Oisans (1550m) / Refuge les Mouterres (2245m)

Today, you'll discover the different levels of mountain vegetation. From forest to alpine pasture, you'll reach the Plateau d'Emparis (2365m): one of the most beautiful balconies in the Oisans, with a breathtaking view of the Meije glaciers. The arrival at altitude will be an opportunity to discover the first lakes of the week and dip your feet in... or more!

Optional: several lakes to discover on the Plateau.

Ascent: 762m,

Negative ascent: 75m,

Walking time: 3h45.

Lakes option: 1h45 round trip

Lodging: refuge on a magnificent plateau (with luggage transfer)

• Day 3: Refuge les Mouterres (2245m) / Vallon de la Buffe (1940m)

Here we are on the trail once used by peddlers. Today, the mountain is inhabited by shepherds. This stage symbolizes pastoralism. This is your chance to explain and understand the role played by livestock farming in enhancing the natural environment. At the foot of the Vallon de la Buffe peaks, culminating at around 3000m, you'll reach your unusual nest for the night in the heart of the mountain!

On this particular evening, you won't find your luggage.

You'll sleep in the magnificent valley, either in a yurt or in a comfortable refuge, depending on availability when you make your reservation.

As an option, you can summit the Tête du Vallon off-piste or the Pic du Mas de la Grave.

Ascent: 120m,

Negative ascent: 435m,

Walking time: 3h30 - excluding options

• Day 4: Vallon de la Buffe (1940m) / Villar-d'Arène (1650m)

After leaving the Vallon de la Buffe, we take a panoramic path to reach the small town of La Grave, the mountaineering "capital" of the Oisans massif. As you look out over the landscape, you can see the work of man over the centuries.

In the afternoon, stroll along the Romanche and let your children build the dam of their dreams.

This evening you'll be back in your luggage.

Ascent: 200 to 450m,

Negative ascent: 680m,

Walking time: 4h

• Day 5: Villar-d'Arène (1650m) / Lac du Goléon (2450m) or Lac du Pontet (1990m) / Villar-d'Arène (1650m)

Today you'll discover a fragile environment: high-altitude lakes. Two levels of difficulty are available:

- Lac du Goléon (2450m): this high-altitude lake, the remnant of an ancient glacier, dominates the valley. It's a must-see on every postcard! You can also enjoy a sweet or savory break at the refuge overlooking the lake.

Elevation gain: +700m, -700m, +200m, -350m, Walking time: 6h

- Lac du Pontet: easier to get to, this small lake nestled in alpine meadows offers younger climbers a picture-postcard view of the easily accessible Meije massif.

Elevation gain: +380m, -504m, Walking time: 4h

Whichever option you choose, a short cab transfer will take you to the start of the hike in the morning.

Overnight at the Villar-d'Arène gîte.

• Day 6: Villar-d'Arène (1650m) - La Grave (1480m) / Les Glaciers (3200m)

To round off the week, we invite you to experience the exhilaration of the summits! On the high-altitude glaciers, at over 3200m, your children's eyes will wander over the Alpine Arc. Who will be the first to find Mont-Blanc?

There are several choices for this day:

- Choice 1 : A glacier discovery hike with a mountain guide (extra charge): enjoy a unique experience at 3200m, at the top of the cable car, roped up with a mountain guide, come and discover the secrets of the Meije glacier.

Duration: 1h30 from the terminal station - Technical equipment provided. Rides take place on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays: 8:30 a.m. at the bottom, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. at the top of the cable car.

- Choice 2 : Hiking. You can climb to the top at 3200m, to touch the ice and observe the eternal snows. Then it's on to the last lake of the week: Lac de Puy Vachier. If you're feeling brave, you can even return to the valley on foot.

The cost of the cable car ride must be paid on site.

For choice 1, the glacier walk will be booked by us and paid for directly on site.

End of stay around 4.30pm.

-> Stay from June to September, departure according to your choice.