Winter is here! This week I have been running in fresh snow in Chamonix. The temperatures have been sub zero keeping it light and fluffy underfoot. Over the past few weeks the Alps have been receiving regular snowfalls which enabled the partial opening of the Swiss resort of Verbier to open and this weekend the Grand Montets Ski Area in Chamonix will also be partially open.

Lindsay and I were joined by a Nordic Walking group from Ashbourne, Derbyshire at the weekend. Working in conjunction with their local Instructor, Sam, we arranged for a group of 20 walkers to spend a relaxing weekend based in the Chamonix Valley. Using Argentiere as our base we enjoyed walking in 3 countries in 3 days.

Just back from a great trip round the Dents du Midi range in the Swiss Valais region. This is the most westerly massif in Switzerland and on the whole not too many people visit the area. This in itself is surprising because it is absolutely stunning, the seven jagged summits of the Dents du Midi provide a great centerpiece for this 'tour'.

I have been on an adventure today searching for more interesting snow shoe routes to share with you - and have had one of the best days out ever. Blue skies, powder, and stunning views. Join us on a snowshoe holiday this winter season - we now offer trips in France, Switzerland, Italy, Bulgaria and Germany. 

Winter has definitely arrived here in Chamonix.

Over last night and this morning we have had at least 2 feet of snow fall at our front door here in Finhaut, at 1340m. This added to an already good base. Today I woke to a very quiet, magical, snow drenched village.

Snow has arrived in the Alps! 

It's only early October and the snow has already arrived!

I headed off to Swiss Val Ferret today for a very wintery walk with snow shoes. We were heading for Le Chantonet which is a wee summit near the Petit Col Ferret. It was very atmospheric as we headed up the first part of the climb with larch trees coated in fresh powder - really beautiful. I think my friend Barry and I got a bit of a shock when we realised how much snow had fallen overnight as we were up to our knees in places. The compass was out for the first time in ages with visibility down to about 20m.