NEW: Snowshoe Adventure in Briançon
A fabulous winter escape in Briançon, known as one of the best areas of France for snowshoe adventures. With its reputation for upwards of 300 days of sunshine a year, and reliable snow record it makes for the perfect base. The city, in the Haute Alpes, is the highest in France sitting at an altitude of 1,326 metres (4,350 feet), surrounded by stunning mountain terrain. There is a rich history to this mountain town - its strategic position near the Italian frontier and the former territories of the Duchy of Savoy made it a vital defensive stronghold. In the 17th century, under the reign of Louis XIV, the brilliant military engineer Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban designed and reinforced an extraordinary network of fortifications here and throughout the surrounding valleys - many of which still dominate the skyline today.
Highlights
- A medievel citadel in the city's Vieille Ville
- Hidden valleys and historical mountain forts dating back to the time of Louis XIV
- A huge selection of snowshoe routes with stunning vistas and authentic mountain culture
- A modern and vibrant winter mountain town in the truest sense which still holds on to its history and roots
Briançon sits close to the Italian border and is at the crossroads of five main valleys; the Clarée, the Guisanne, the Durance, the Ayes and the Cervyrete with expansive views across Frances most rugged and arguably spectacular national park the Ecrins. Views to celebrated peaks such as the Mieje, Pic Sans Noms, Barre des Ecrins and Pelvoux. All this makes it a Briançon a stunning location from which to explore and in winter, snowshoes are perfect to get off the beaten tracks and escape the crowds. Even in the peak periods of the winter Briançon seems to manage to maintain its sleepy relaxed mountain town vibe while other locations have fallen foul to the mass influx of winter tourism. Here we can escape into the mountains and have the trails entirely to ourselves for hours at a time.
Grade: Advanced
READ GRADE DESCRIPTIONAt a Glance
| Holiday Type | Snowshoeing |
| Duration | 8 Days |
| Group Size | 4-8 |
| Minimum Age | 18 |
| Maximum Altitude | 2640M (8660ft) |
| Countries Visited | France |
| Meet In | Briançon, France |
Dates and Prices
2027 Departures
2028 Departures
What's Included
- Professional guiding services of a qualified International Mountain Leader
- Snowshoe equipment; poles, snow shovel, avalanche probe, transceiver
- Half Board accommodation in a 3*** hotel, based on two people sharing
- Transfers to and from the snowshoe walks
What's Not Included
- Lunches
- Travel Insurance - required
- Travel to & from meeting point
- Miscellaneous personal spending
Itinerary
This evening, before dinner, we meet at our cosy mountain accommodation in Briançon when your guide will be available to discuss the itinerary and answer any questions about the week ahead.
Today we set out from the edge of Villar-Saint-Pancrace, beginning our ascent at the entrance to the beautiful Vallée des Ayes. High above us on the left rises the imposing Fort de la Croix-de-Bretagne, while behind us lies the historic fortified town of Briançon. Our objective today is Le Mélèzin, a historic alpine pasture perched some 600 metres above the valley floor, offering views over the entire landscape. The name “Mélèzin” derives from the mélèze - the European larch (Larix decidua) - whose forests cloak these slopes. Known locally as the “Pin de Briançon,” this tree is emblematic of the region, its soft green needles turning a luminous gold in autumn before falling for winter. Our route winds steadily upward along a mix of narrow mountain paths and broader alpine tracks. As we gain height, the forest gradually opens into wide, snow-filled meadows where the panorama expands dramatically - rugged peaks, fortified ridgelines, and the deep-cut valley below. After our picnic lunch the descent leads us via the Chalets des Prés du Vallon, traditional alpine dwellings that evoke centuries of pastoral life in these high pastures. A day of climbing, history, sweeping alpine scenery, and the enduring presence of the mountains - a perfect blend of nature and heritage.
Ascent: 650m (2130ft) Descent: 650m (2130ft) Distance: 10.3km (6.5 miles) 5.5hrs
Today’s transfer takes us over the breathtaking Col du Lautaret, one of the great high mountain passes of the French Alps, before descending towards the foot of La Meije, the most iconic summit of Écrins National Park. Our destination is the legendary mountain village of La Grave, long renowned among alpinists and off-piste skiers. We park in the small hamlet of Le Chazelet, perfectly positioned opposite the immense north-facing, glaciated wall of La Meije - an awe-inspiring sight and a constant presence throughout the day. From here we begin our ascent towards the Refuge Pic du Mas de la Grave. The atmosphere today feels markedly different. Surrounded by the towering peaks of the Écrins - many rising above 4,000 metres - we are immersed in a true high-mountain environment. Though Le Chazelet functions as a small ski village during the winter months, it takes little time to leave behind the last signs of infrastructure as we move steadily up the valley. Our companions will likely be few: perhaps a ski tourer tracing elegant lines through the snow, or the sudden silhouette of an ibex or chamois poised effortlessly on a distant ridge. At this time of year, the refuge itself is unstaffed. Nevertheless, its winter room offers simple but welcome shelter. Here we will pause for lunch, lighting the gas stove provided to prepare hot drinks while the vast alpine silence surrounds us. For our return to Le Chazelet, we traverse along the western side of the valley, allowing us to fully appreciate the spectacular panorama ahead.
Ascent: 715m (2345ft) Descent: 750m (2460ft) Distance: 14.5km (9 miles) 6.5hrs
This is a true classic winter outing, famed throughout the region whatever your chosen mode of snowy transport. Along the way we’re likely to encounter ski tourers carving their way uphill, cross-country skiers gliding through the valley, dog sled teams in full stride, and families enjoying the simple thrill of a luge run. But don’t worry, it won’t take long before we leave the bustle behind as we begin our steady climb out of the valley and into quieter terrain. Snow conditions will determine our precise route, but our goal is the magnificent Col d’Izoard, one of the great alpine passes. Towering above at 3,320 metres stands Pic de Rochebrune, its striking summit dominating the skyline and marking one of the gateways to the beautiful Queyras Regional Natural Park. After taking time to absorb the high mountain views, we begin our descent, stopping en route at the renowned Refuge Napoléon. Here we’ll warm up with hot drinks and sample one of their famous tarts - myrtille (wild blueberry) or framboise (raspberry) - a well-earned alpine indulgence.
Ascent: 815m (2273ft) Descent: 815m (2273ft) Distance: 14.3km (8.8 miles) 6.5hrs
The Vallouise Valley curves gracefully around the quieter, wilder flank of the Écrins, tucked beneath the towering summits of Mont Pelvoux and Barre des Écrins. Around the hamlet of Ailefroide, the landscape rises dramatically - jagged granite walls, glaciated faces, and deep-cut valleys that have drawn climbers here for generations. This is one of the historic heartlands of French mountaineering, where early alpinists tested their skill and nerve on serious alpine routes, and where that spirit of adventure still lingers in the air. In winter, the valley transforms into a cathedral of ice. Countless frozen waterfalls cling to the cliffs, some delicate and chandeliered, others thick blue pillars plunging from high ledges. We may be lucky enough to watch ice climbers carefully picking their way up these vertical sculptures, their movements precise and rhythmic against the stillness of the snow-covered valley floor.
Alternatively, if sunshine calls, we can head toward Puy-Saint-Vincent and enjoy a more open, sunlit panorama. From here, a rewarding journey leads us up to the Col de la Pousterle before continuing on to the summit of Tête d’Oréac. As we gain height, the views expand in every direction - snow-draped ridgelines, distant peaks, and the vast sweep of the valley below. From the summit, sheer cliffs drop away dramatically beneath our feet, revealing the winding course of the Durance far below. It is a place of exhilarating exposure and immense perspective, where the scale of the Alps is truly revealed.
Ascent: 660m (2165ft) Descent: 640m (2099ft) Distance: 10.3km (6.4 miles) 6hrs
Today, we return to the Col de Lauteret for a journey that will take us to our highest point in the valley this week. Starting from Briançon at 1,300 m, we gain a little extra height in comfort we will drive up 700 m before we disembark at the Col at 2000 m. From there, we begin our ascent towards the Col du Galibier at 2645 m, one of the highest paved roads in Europe and a regular feature in the Tour de France. Our route follows the ancient road built in the 1800s, which remained in use until 1938 when the modern road was constructed. As this newer road is buried under several meters of snow for eight months each year, our journey immerses us once again in the wild mountain landscapes, offering breathtaking views of the Écrins, the summits of the Hautes Alpes, and across the Italian border. Upon arrival at the refuge, we’ll be welcomed by our hosts, Isa and Sam, with a homemade meal and hot drinks. They’ll share stories of the col’s local history and its iconic role in the Tour de France, one of the world’s most widely watched sporting events. Our return to the Col de Lauteret follows a similar path, though if conditions allow, we will take time to explore the varied terrain of the Cirque, soaking in the natural beauty that makes this area so special.
Ascent: 665m (2181ft) Descent: 665m (2181ft) Distance: 12.9km (8 miles) 6.5hrs
This morning we drive into the stunning Vallée de Clarée to conclude our week of winter exploration. Nestled at altitudes ranging from 1400 to 2000 meters, the Clarée Valley is a haven for winter enthusiasts, offering a wide variety of activities from ski touring to cross-country skiing. Yet, for us, the focus is on the serene pleasures of snowshoeing: wandering through golden larch forests, marveling at dramatic limestone cliffs, and immersing ourselves in the valley’s remarkable biodiversity, which has been preserved for centuries. Our snowshoe journey begins along what, in summer, are gentle riverside pastures. In winter, however, these same paths transform into a snow-covered landscape, where we carefully navigate fresh snow drifts, hop across frozen streams, and enjoy the solitude of a winter forest. As we ascend the snow-laden branches form natural arches above the trail, and the quiet is punctuated only by the crunch of our snowshoes. If time allows we may pause at one of three manned refuges scattered throughout the valley where we can enjoy a hot drink and warm ourselves by the fire.
Ascent: 700m (2296ft) Descent: 700m (2296ft) Distance: 12-17km (7.5-10.5 miles) 7h
Tracks and Trails services end after breakfast.
We aim to follow the itinerary outlined above whenever possible. However, your guide may need to make changes due to weather conditions or in the interests of the group's safety and enjoyment. Snowshoes are used to assist with winter hiking, but if there is insufficient snow to require them, the trip will still go ahead as planned. Our kit list includes microspikes, as these may be needed in low-snow or icy conditions. Please let us know in advance if you would like to borrow a pair.
Accommodation
We aim to accommodate our guests in well-situated, clean, characterful, family run accommodation. Our trip fees are based on two people sharing a bedroom, what we call a 'twin' means two single beds in one bedroom. If you are booking as a single traveller you will share with someone of the same gender. A single room may be available for your private use, but requires early booking and will incur a supplementary charge. For further details refer to Trip Information > Single Supplements. Our suggested accommodation, listed below, is subject to availability at the time of booking and is an indication of our accommodation, not a guarantee. Note it is unusual to have air conditioning in bedrooms in the mountain areas where our trips take place. If you have any questions about the accommodation please contact us.
Hotel de la Chaussée, Briançon
Hôtel de la Chaussée is a charming, family-run hotel and restaurant in the heart of Briançon, in the Hautes-Alpes region of southeastern France.
The Hotel was established in 1892 and still managed by the Bonnaffoux family across generations, it combines traditional alpine hospitality with modern comforts in a mountain chalet-inspired atmosphere. It is a perfect place to relax after a day of snowshoeing, by either having a hot drink in their cozy lounge, or walking around the streets in the historic town center.
Trip Information
Arrival & departure by train
One of the ways to get to Briançon is to travel by train from the UK - take the Eurostar from London to Paris, from Paris gare de Lyon you can take the TGV to Oulx and from there the regional train to Briançon. Another option is to take the overnight train from Paris to Briançon.
Arrival & Departure by air
Turin airport is the closest, and most major UK airports fly into Turin during the ski season, and is located 120km from Briançon, with a transfer time of between 1.5-2 hours. You can either take the Link bus, which operates every 2 hours and goes from Turin airport directly to Briançon. The information for Winter 2027 will be online in the fall. Reservations can be made until the day before the trip , however it is possible that they get sold out so it's recommended to book your tickets as soon as possible. Make sure to get off the bus in Briançon at the Prorel stop and from there it's an 8 minute walk to the hotel. Another option is to take the bus or train from Turin airport to Turin Porta Nuova. From there you take a Trenitalia train to Oulx, and from there the regional train to Briançon - this journey is slightly longer and has more transfers.
It is your responsibility to ensure any insurance taken out is appropriate for your trip and the activity you will be undertaking. Tracks & Trails cannot advise on insurance policies or be held responsible if, in the event of a claim, your insurance is inadequate.
Activity, Injury and Mountain Rescue It is a condition of booking you are insured for mountain rescue, medical expenses, injury, illness, death, cost of repatriation and personal accident risks. The exception to the mountain rescue insurance requirement is if the trip is taking place in the United Kingdom or Norway where mountain rescue is free of charge. Ensure your insurance covers you to the maximum altitude given on your trip itinerary. The maximum altitude can be checked in the 'At A Glance' box on the trip page.
Trip Cancellation/Curtailment Insurance Insurance should be booked as soon as we confirm your trip is going ahead. Deposit and balance payments are non-refundable unless it is Tracks and Trails who cancel the trip due to a failure to reach the minimum numbers required. In this case we offer a full refund or the option to transfer to another trip.
Baggage Loss/Equipment Damage We advise insurance which covers baggage loss/equipment damage.
All the above is detailed in our Terms and Conditions. For further information on insurance options click here.
When packing for a trip in the mountains it is important to have the appropriate equipment and clothing. This kit list features items we believe are necessary for the weather you might encounter and the accommodation you will be staying in.
Generally clothing for snowshoeing should be equivalent to that used for walking in the mountains in winter. For this trip all the necessary snowshoe equipment is provided free of charge. This includes snowshoes, walking poles, snow probe, snow shovel, and avalanche transceiver. The carrying of this safety equipment is compulsory and demonstrates ‘best practice’.
If your shoesize is bigger than EU47 / UK 12 - please get in touch so we can make sure to supply you with the correct snowshoes.
Equipment
Snowshoes - supplied free of charge
Poles - supplied free of charge
Avalanche Transceiver - supplied free of charge
Shovel - supplied free of charge
Snow Probe - supplied free of charge
Rucksack – 30-35 litres, with waist and chest strap. Ideally it should have a system that allows you to attach snowshoes if it is necessary to carry them.
Rucksack – waterproof liner/cover
Winter Hiking Boots - warm and waterproof. They must cover your ankles. A 'stiff' B2 boot which takes a crampon is not advised.
Bags to waterproof items, such as documentation
Gaiters - useful on days with deep fresh snow
Emergency foil blanket
Micro-spikes - recommended for conditions when snowshoes are not practical. Please let us know if you'd like for us to supply some for you.
Clothing
Waterproof jacket - essential, this must keep you dry during a day of continuous snowfall or at least as dry as any waterproof jacket ever keeps you!
Waterproof trousers - in case of heavy snowfall
Trousers - windproof and warm
Thermal top - long sleeves
Thin fleece - long sleeves
Waistcoat - fleece/wind stopper
Gloves x 2 (one thick and one thin)
Over-mittens for colder days can be useful
Warm hat
Sun hat
Head/ear band
Duvet jacket (or second warm layer)
Scarf or 'Buff' for neck
Socks - 2 or 3 pairs
Comfort
Lip salve
Sunscreen - essential
Sunglasses - essential
Goggles - very useful in snowfall
Snack bars/chocolate
Tissues - we recommend biodegradable bags to dispose of rubbish
Anti-bacterial hand wash
Personal First Aid
Personal medication
Blister plasters (e.g. Compeed)
Painkillers/anti-inflammatory
Glucose tablets/Energy gel
2 x Rehydration sachets - eg Dioralyte
Throat lozenges
Antiseptic cream/spray
Documentation
Mountain Rescue/Ski Insurance documents - compulsory
Passport
Credit card
Cash - Euros
GHIC - if travelling from UK for medical cover
Additional Items
Slippers for use at accommodation
Clothing for use at accommodation
Hair dryer if required
Travel Kettle if required
Swimwear for sauna, if one available
Camera/ Book/Music
Toiletries – soap/shower gel; not all accommodation supplies these
Ear plugs - if room sharing
Small thermos for hot drinks
Head torch - plus spare batteries
Sit mat (optional)
**Supplementary snacks if you follow a gluten free or coeliac diet**
Leaders are all first aid trained and carry their own first aid kit
On many trips there will be an element of 'group kit'. This kit will will be minimal and usually a case of sharing a few lightweight 'survival shelters'. For example, on a week-long trip you may carry a shelter for one day before passing it to the next person. If you are booking a trip in winter there will be a few additional safety items, such as a snow shovel, probe, spare ski pole etc.
For each trip a minimum number of guests is required before we can confirm your trip will go-ahead. Minimum and maximum numbers are displayed in 'At a Glance' on the righthand of the trip page. If you book travel before we have emailed to confirm the trip is guaranteed we cannot be held responsible for any financial loss.
When booking a holiday as a solo traveller a twin bedded room comprising of two single beds, is booked as standard. This will be with someone of the same gender unless you request to pay extra for your own room. Single rooms can be booked but are often limited in supply so if you would like to pay a supplement for a single room we urge you to get in touch as soon as possible. The single supplement is £270 in 2027 and £280 in 2028.
For these trips we supply, free of charge, all snowshoe equipment; snowshoes, hiking poles, avalanche transceiver, snow shovel and snow probe. The carrying of this equipment, worth £600 per person, is compulsory. We kindly ask that you take good care of the equipment supplied.
Avalanche Transceivers Wearing an avalanche transceiver is good practice in a winter environment. An avalanche transceiver is a device about the size of your hand which is worn under the top layers of your clothing. It emits a silent signal that can be picked up by anyone searching for you. You may have done previous snowshoe trips where the wearing of a transceiver was not compulsory, however, at Tracks and Trails your safety is paramount and wearing one is compulsory.
Snowshoes Our snowshoes are by TSL, the largest snowshoe manufacturer in the Alps. The model we use is high-end, versatile, comfortable and well-designed. You can view the snowshoes we use here.
Boots Warm and waterproof hiking boots are essential, these can be 'summer' or 'winter' boots. They must cover your ankles and provide support, it is not possible to low cut hiking shoes or trainers.
For this trip where you are centre-based, in other words where you are staying in the same accommodation all week, you are welcome to bring whatever luggage you require. However, please note that not all the hotels we use have elevators. This means you may need to carry your luggage to your bedroom and this might involve climbing several flights of stairs. We would suggest that luggage with wheels is generally a good idea.
The statistics given on your itinerary relating to ascent, descent and distance should be used as a 'general' indication of the effort required. This is a guideline to help you decide if, based on previous experience, your fitness and stamina are correct for the trip. We ask you to note that the even the most modern of technology can show considerable variations in terms of ascent, descent, and in particular distance.
Winter mountain weather in the European Alps can vary considerably, and in this respect it is no different to any mountain environment where the terrain influences the weather and it can change from valley to valley. In winter the weather can be everything from clear blue skies, and glorious sunshine, to heavy snowfall and strong winds. Essentially, as with all mountain journeys, you should be prepared for all conditions. In December and January they can range from -10°Celsius (14°F) to 3°Celsius (37.4F), in February from -5°Celsius (23°F) to 7°Celsius (44.6°F), and in March from 0°Celsius (32°F) to 13°Celsius (55.4°F).
Food On our trips we encourage you to experience local tastes and dishes. If you are vegetarian catering for your diet is not generally a problem. If you have a 'special' diet because of an allergy/intolerance we ask that you make your needs clear on your booking form so we can discuss your requirements with the accommodation. A diet that is not related to an allergy/intolerance or beliefs cannot be catered for. It is simply not possible for mountain accommodation to deal with many variations in diet while providing meals for groups.
In addition, if you have an allergy/intolerance we would suggest you bring/purchase suitable snacks as a supplement to the picnic lunches. At times finding gluten free bread, for example, can be an issue. If you would like to discuss the suitability of a trip for a vegan diet, gluten or lactose intolerance please contact us. We request that you do not CHANGE your dietary requirements during the trip as we will have pre-ordered your meals.
Water If the accommodation has a problem with the water supply they will post a sign over the tap indicating that you must not drink the water, otherwise it is normal to drink from the tap. Hotels - It is not uncommon for restaurants to charge for tap water at the evening meal. If this is the case then Tracks and Trails will cover the cost. Mountain Huts - If your trip features a stay in a mountain hut/refuge and the tap water is not potable then Tracks and Trails will cover the cost of bottled water at the evening meal. Sparkling water is not included in this option and any cost should be covered by you.
Plastic credit or debit cards or smartphone pay systems are increasingly accepted throughout the areas where we run trips. Some countries, such as Norway, are moving towards a cashless society. However, in Europe, in the mountain areas where we run trips, a small amount of cash in the local currency is useful. For example, if you stop at a family-run mountain cafe or farm they may not accept cards or smartphone systems, and cash will be necessary. We recommend having enough cash in the local currency to pay for a few snacks and drinks. Whether to bring cash or not is at your own discretion.
A passport with 6 months remaining validity at the end of your stay is generally required. We suggest keeping your passport in your rucksack, and a paper copy of your passport in your luggage. If your trip does not include luggage support carry a paper copy with you, but separate from your passport. You should check passport requirements with the relevant embassy or consulate for the country you are visiting, paying attention to your citizenship. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct travel documents and visas for your holiday. Visa requirements and charges are subject to change without notice.
NEW European Travel Regulations 2026 If you are travelling to Europe you may be impacted by a change to travel regulations. In the last quarter of 2026, the European Commission will roll out a U.S. style electronic travel authorisation system for visitors from countries that are currently not part of the EU. It is your responsibility to check for updates with regard to the introduction date.
We recommend you check if you require an adaptor for your electrical items at: Plug, Socket & Voltage by Country
If your trip involves staying in a mountain refuge/rifugio/hut a slimline and lightweight 'battery pack' can be useful for recharging phones etc. This type of accommodation will generally have electricity, but it may be limited in supply, and it is not always possible to charge items.
Tracks and Trails pays guides/instructors a fair and appropriate fee for their professional service. If you feel your guide/instructor has provided an excellent service that went 'above and beyond' then it is at the discretion of each guest whether to tip or not. Guests will often give a tip of between 2 - 5 per cent of the total value of their trip. It is entirely up to you and any gesture will no doubt be appreciated no matter the size.
Before booking consider whether you expect to be in the appropriate physical condition on the date of your departure to allow you to fully participate in and enjoy your holiday. If you have any doubts because of an illness or injury it would be advisable to check with your doctor. We advise you always carry your insurance documents with details of the Emergency Medical telephone number for your insurance provider, and your policy number.
GHIC For UK residents travelling to an EU country you should obtain and bring your Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). The GHIC gives access to state healthcare in Europe either free or at a reduced cost. The GHIC is not a substitute for medical travel insurance.
EHIC If you have a UK European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) it will be valid until the expiry date on the card. Once it expires, you should apply for a GHIC.
We feel strongly about protecting the environment and do not encourage the use of single-use plastic items. We would ask that you arrive with a ‘water bottle’ or ‘hydration system’ that can be used repeatedly. We operate a zero tolerance for rubbish, and would ask you to remove all items from the mountain, this includes toilet tissue, and those items you consider to be bio-degradable.
The waste water in mountain huts, also known as refuges/rifugios, often runs into nearby streams and rivers with a potential impact on the eco-system, though in many places steps are now being taken to avoid this. Whether or not your trip involves staying in a mountain hut we would nevertheless recommend you consider nature friendly sunscreens which only contain mineral UV-blocking ingredients such as oxide, and titanium dioxide.
Working across international boundaries, and with various currencies means the price of our trips can change overnight. We have undertaken to guarantee that once you have paid your deposit the price of your trip is fixed. The website price may increase due to currency fluctuations, but we guarantee that the price advertised on the date of your booking will be maintained.
If you would like help preparing for your snowshoe adventure you could consider booking a Quick Fix session with personal trainer Kate Brown. This is aimed at those who want to get ready for any of our winter activities. Your booking with Kate will involve a 45 minute 1:1 video consultation and action plan. You can read more about her ethos and experience here. We also offer free training videos on our YouTube channel - the following are aimed at those who snowshoe in winter, and hike in summer:
We go to great lengths to work with first class guides who are passionate about their work. They are fully qualified, insured, and hold the correct documentation. Note your snowshoe guide has our authority to make any route changes they believe are necessary in the interests of safety and enjoyment. This is particularly relevant in a winter environment where the snowpack can change on a daily basis. Your snowshoe guide will be a qualified International Mountain Leader. IML's are not only qualified to ensure the safe management of the group, but are also a source of knowledge about the local flora and fauna, culuture and traditions. You can learn more about our guides and instructors on the About Us page.
We do not include lunches in your trip fee for various reasons, the most important of which is food waste. Most people have particular tastes and requirements for 'trail' or 'hill' food and it is better you purchase your own snacks rather than throw away items from the picnic lunch which we would supply. Lunches on our trips are 'picnic' style lunches, in other words you take a packed lunch with sufficient snacks, food and fluid to sustain you throughout the day. Buying snacks and trying local specialities is a great way to inter-act with local people and to practise your language skills.
If there is the possibility of lunch being taken at a restaurant/farm/cafe beside the trail, your guide/instructor will advise you of this. Each evening you can order a picnic/sandwich from your accommodation, or your guide/instructor will advise you of options such as a local shop or market. In all cases we would ask you to settle any 'bill' for lunch or drinks the evening before you depart, and not in the morning when there may be a queue.
