Heading to the mountains to enjoy the snow, skiing or snowboarding down the slopes, indulging in mountain specialities: that's what Gourette is like in winter, our white paradise. But this year, you're looking for something new. You want to do more than just ski, you want a change. Le Petit Futé has understood this and has come up with 10 must-do activities to do in Gourette when you're not skiing.
1. Terra Aventura, one of the not-to-be-missed activities in Gourette
If you're looking for something to do with the whole family in Gourette this winter, you've come to the right place! Armed with your snowshoes and the Terra Aventura app, you'll start this trail at Place Sarrière. On this 6 km loop, the app will suggest a number of riddles. Each time you find a solution, you'll get closer to your goal: the cache. Once there, you'll find... we'll let you stew a bit, it'll be a surprise!
Good to know if you don't like snowshoeing, this treasure hunt can also be done in summer or outside the snowy season. However, the trail is a little steeper, so you'll need to take breaks and bring good walking shoes.
It's almost the holidays and you're totally unprepared. Come on, we'll help you, visit what should you pack for skiing?
2. Sled dog rides for a gentle sense of wonder
With its snow-covered forests and breathtaking panoramas, the resort of Gourette is the ideal place for a magical experience: a dog-sleigh ride. Comfortably seated in the sleigh, the huskies guide you through a winter wonderland. When you think about it, you realise what a wonderful idea it was to take a moment of peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle of the slopes. Between the crunch of the snow under your skates and the soothing silence of the mountain, you're experiencing a unique moment, suspended in time.
Let's face it, skiing can be quite a budget. But did you know where to ski for less? Check out our 15 resort ideas!
3. Guided tour: how artificial snow is created at Gourette
Skiing without snow is like surfing without water - it's sad. But rest assured: to ensure that your slopes are always covered in a thick layer of immaculate white, cape-less heroes work in the shadows when duty calls. How is snow produced? How do snow guns work? How is artificial snowmaking controlled? Discover the answers to these mysteries by visiting the control room.
Good to know: the average visit lasts 90 minutes. Booking is compulsory for this guided tour.
All this makes you want to go skiing, but where? Read our articlewhere to go skiing? Top 10 most popular French resorts.
4. Happy Luge, winter sports evenings for all ages
It's safe to say that you're the kings and queens of the slopes in winter. Whatever the activity, what you love is the feeling of freedom, of hurtling down the slopes and, above all, of doing it all over again without tiring of it. At Gourette, you can go tobogganing on the two slopes offered by the resort. The little extra we loved at Le Petit Futé was the Happy Luge evenings. No need to wait until the next day to start sledging again, you and your little ones can do it in the evening, during the school holidays. Isn't that great?
You love the mountains, but is it possible to ski in an environmentally-friendly way ? We'll tell you all about it!
5. Snakegliss, one of the must-do activities in Gourette
When you're skiing as a family, it's as much fun as it is complicated. Some prefer gentler activities, while others prefer thrills. At Le Petit Futé, we're delighted to tell you that we may have a solution to satisfy all your little tribe: the Snakegliss, also known as the sledge train.
Good to know to make the most of the activity, make sure you're warmly dressed with gloves, a hat and waterproof trousers!
Depending on where you sit, you'll have a very different experience. If you're in the front seat, the descent will be gentle. On the other hand, if you sit at the back, the turns will be sharper and the sensations more intense.
Talking of family skiing, check out our Top 15 family ski resorts where you can ski with children.
6. Going for a ride in a snow groomer after the slopes have closed
The slopes? You already know them by heart, but have you ever seen them from a different angle, say... higher up? After the slopes have closed, you can book a ride in a snow groomer to enjoy the last light of the day and discover how the slopes are transformed every evening to make them even more beautiful the next day. If you're looking for something a little out of the ordinary, this could be just what you're looking for, especially as you'll be discovering the job of a groomer.
Did you know? A groomer can accommodate 10 to 15 people, so you can enjoy this experience with the whole family without worrying about being too cramped.
Article to read: What to see and do in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques? Top 21 most beautiful places
7. Explore the mountains in winter with the Nature and Winter guided tour
Fancy a guided tour on the theme of nature and winter? For 1? hours, you can observe plants, forests and animal tracks in the snow to find out how the mountain adapts in winter. This activity will change the way you look at the mountains. It's no longer just a playground for skiing and snowboarding, but a living ecosystem that adapts with the seasons.
Good to know to take part in this activity, you need a pedestrian or ski pass to access the Bézou cable car.
If only there were guided tours whenever you needed them, life would be so much simpler. At Le Petit Futé, we agree with you, which is why we've put together the perfect skier's guide.
8. A privileged descent with a ski patroller before the slopes officially open
You've never been to a film premiere before, but if you like, you can preview the slopes. If you're visiting Gourette this winter, you'll have the chance to explore the ski area before it opens, with a ski patroller who will explain all the specifics of his job. This way, you can enjoy the first rays of sunshine and ski on a freshly prepared slope- doesn't that make you want to?
Good to know to be able to do this activity with peace of mind, it's best to have a good level of skiing to be comfortable on red runs.
When you're skiing, you know that Christmas isn't far away. Discover the 10 French ski resorts where you can spend Christmas!
9. Escape Game "Avalanche", one of the not-to-be-missed activities in Gourette
To get the most out of these (and future) ski holidays, you'd like your children to get to know the mountains. We advise you to book your "Avalanche" escape game in Gourette without delay. It takes 18 minutes to solve a riddle as a team, freeing up a shovel, probe and avalanche transceiver to set off in search of a victim buried under the snow. Your little ones will learn the essential skills and reflexes to have in the event of an avalanche.
Did you know? An avalanche transceiver is a small device worn by skiers, snowboarders, hikers and other winter sports enthusiasts. In the event of an avalanche, the device emits a radio signal to quickly locate buried victims.
To maximise your enjoyment of the slopes, did you know that there are ten useful gadgets for skiing ?
10. One of the not-to-be-missed activities in Gourette: snowshoeing
Snowshoe trekking in Gourette is an excellent way to explore the mountains in a different way. You'll be amazed by snow-covered landscapes, silent forests and breathtaking panoramas. If you're looking for total immersion, opt for a full day's snowshoeing with an experienced guide.
Accommodation can be expensive when skiing. If you're on your own, why not rent a spare room for a week's skiing?
Where to stay in Gourette?
- The family address with a view
Located opposite the Gourette cirque, ISKÖ BASECAMP & HÔTEL, bookable here, offers chalets with mezzanine bedrooms, a heated swimming pool and a kids' club.
- The best equipped
Club Belambra Lou Sarri is a hotel club offering fully-equipped accommodation with balcony and stunning views. Located 300 metres from the slopes and ski lifts, it offers a variety of activities including a sauna, hammam and fitness area. Click here to book.
- The best location
Le Skidoux accommodation is located at the foot of the slopes and offers magnificent mountain views. Click here to book your romantic break now.
