Charmey has quite a lot to offer for winter enthusiasts. 30 km of slopes, snowshoe paths and a ski-touring slope. It is a perfect place for the whole family. Enough of that though. Monday morning I decided I will explore one of the snowshoe trails (without snowhoes).
Start of the hike 
You start your hike at the intermediate station of the gondola (933 m). Next to it you will find a map that describes some of the snowshoe paths that start there. Nothing easier. You just follow the signs and you’re good. The only thing that might be confusing to some is that sometimes the path that I took is marked ‘nr 2’ and sometimes ‘271’.
The hike starts really easy. You walk through a forest and it’s quite flat. Not that much later you find yourself in front of quite a steep slope and yes, this time I wish I took the snowshoes. Looking back you already can admire the beautiful panorama of Moléson, Dent de Broc, Dent du Chamois…
Hello not so little friend 
Stunning panorama 
It is not the easiest snowshoe hike. So yes, would be good if you’re quite fit. Just before getting to your target (which is Vounetz) there’s still few ‘ups’ to conquer. The views and silence will for sure be a lovely reward for all that sweating.
Doesn’t look steep but it is 
Following the signs 
By the slopes 
On the other side 
Can already see Vounetz 
To go down you have few options. You can either take the same path down, take the gondola, or path nr 4 (which was closed on Monday) or nr 7 and then take a chairlift up and back with the gondola.
Practical information:
Starting point: intermediate station of gondola (933 m)
Target: Vounetz, Restaurant des dents vertes (1424 m)
Hike lenght: 2,6 km
Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Tip: It is quite a difficult snowshoe hike. Check the snow conditions if you need snowshoes. Take the hiking sticks. Stop for a coffee, beer or lunch in Restaurant des dents vertes. They also offer evening snowshoe escapades on Fridays (with fondue!) that you can sign up for with Charmey Tourisme Office.
Text: Agnieszka Wajs
