Ski touring alone around Tignes 1800 and Tignes les Brevieres.
This was it. The time had finally come for me to head out on a ski tour alone. I was apprehensive, as to be truthful, I had never skied alone. I had only ever skied with an instructor, family or friends- never having to navigate or have any kind of awareness as to where I was going or where I was going to wind up. However, there was something about choosing my own route and pace that I was quite excited about. I had the opportunity to choose slopes and tracks that I wanted to ski, not having to consider anyone else in my group, giving me the ability to create the perfect skiing day out.
However, I ultimately opted to go with a route that I had previously done as I was nervous about my ability to navigate my way around. As I’ve said, I’ve never actually had to know where I was going before, and I felt that exploring whilst trying to work out how to tour was a little much for me to tackle first time.
…there was something about choosing my own route and pace that I was quite excited about.
With all of that decided, I snapped on my boots, set up my bindings and began my descent down- preparing myself for what was sure to be a tricky trek up. Amid my duct-taped ankles and backpacked laced with water and easy-access snacks, I realised that I was actually enjoying this. I was out on my own so I could choose when to slow down, when I wanted to speed up, and when I needed a break and I didn’t feel as though I was letting the side down or making anyone wait for me.
It was defiantly very warm on the way up, and I was beginning to think I should have worn a t-shirt. The words of my previous touring buddy ringing in my ears, “Layers are your best friend”, I should have listened. However, the warm weather was welcome as I continued my tranquil ascent.
…I did enjoy being in my own space and taking everything in my own stride
After touring by myself, I do understand the enjoyment to both touring alone or in company. Whilst there were certainly elements of plugging in my music and going at my own pace, I did somewhat miss the companionship of my partners. They defiantly pushed me to keep going when I wanted to stop, and a voice of encouragement when I wasn’t sure I would make it to the top. However, I did enjoy being in my own space and taking everything in my own stride. I certainly see the appeal of both, and I cannot wait to go out again.
Read more about my ski touring experiences in future blog posts
Book Ski Touring with Val Heliski
Val Heliski offer Ski Touring Equipment Hire from only 33 Euros per day in the French ski resorts of Val d’Isere, Tignes, Les Arcs, Villaroger and Sainte Foy Tarentaise. Our range of touring skis, splitboards and avalanche safety equipment is available to hire for the holidays.
Val Heliski also offer Ski Touring and Splitboarding instruction and guiding from beginners sessions to multi-day tours.