As spring gradually takes hold in the Valais with the first flowers blooming, Arolla remains “the place to ski”. Spring is the season of all contrasts in the Val d’Hérens.
At the entrance of the Val d’Hérens, the apricot trees start to bloom, while at the end of the valley, the snow-covered peaks attract ski tourers. We’ve already told you … lovers of wide open spaces and those who can’t ski enough meet in Arolla.
Springtime skiing happens here with beautiful freeride outings … Dédé, our freeride pioneer , won’t say otherwise!
Let’s set the scene again! Arolla is located at an altitude of 1998 m, at the bottom of the Val d’Hérens and enjoys an exceptional setting at the foot of the prestigious mountains which have made the region famous since the end of the 19th century. Mont-Collon, Pigne d’Arolla, Aiguille de la Tsa… mythical summits. Since 150 years, high mountain enthusiasts have been coming to the small village-station of Arolla in all seasons. Its altitude and location guarantee a good level of snow until spring. Easily accessible by car or public transport, it is the starting point of a beautiful ski tour.
Every two years, at the end of April, the Patrouille des Glaciers, an international ski-mountaineering event, passes through Arolla, as does the Haute-Route from Arolla to Zermatt, a ski raid considered to be one of the most beautiful routes with its glaciers, wide open spaces, huts and mountain refuges. The spring season is a great time for mountain huts. Until the beginning of May, the wardens open the doors of the huts to mountain sportsmen and women for timeless moments of conviviality and good humour. Cabane Bertol, Cabane des Vignettes… refuges like eagle nests.
At the foot of the Pigne d’Arolla, the Cabane des Vignettes, looked after by Karine and Jean-Michel Bournissen, culminates at 3160 m after crossing the Pièce glacier, while the Cabane Bertol, known as one of the most beautiful huts in the Alps, is perched at 3311 m. with a unique view of the surrounding peaks: Dent Blanche, Mont-Collon, Cervin, Dent d’Hérens. Wonderful high altitude landscapes await you before a perfect descent on the slopes or in powder snow.
The adventure begins at the door of the Grand Hotel & Kurhaus and takes you to the immaculate heights.
A good advice, before you get close to the exhilaration of the peaks, ask the local experts about the conditions, the weather and think about the professional guides to accompany you in this beautiful adventure in complete safety… then share the dream through your images and experiences using the hashtag #lostintimeinarolla.
Category : English