On vacation in Haute-Savoie? Meet the sled dogs in Annecy. You’ll never forget the experience!
Looking for an original activity to do solo, as a couple or with children? Sled dogs are probably just what you’re looking for! This activity effectively combines an encounter with man’s best friend with the discovery of sublime landscapes. There’s no shortage of thrills when you’re pulled by a team of malamutes or huskies as they race through the snow-covered forest.
Whether you’re a first-timer or learning to drive, find out all about sled dogs in Annecy!
How to choose a sled dog activity in Annecy?
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Many providers offer sled dog activities in Annecy and the surrounding area. To choose the activity that suits you best, you need to ask yourself several questions:
Driver or passenger?
For your first experience with sled dogs in Annecy, opt for a baptism! You don’t have to do a thing, apart from get comfortable in the sled. Enjoy the sensation of speed and the exceptional scenery of the Alps. A musher steers the sled and takes you on routes he knows by heart, between forests, plateaus and snow-covered peaks.
If you’d like to take the reins and get into the musher‘s shoes, we offer introductory driving courses. A qualified instructor will explain everything you need to know to maneuver the sled and guide the dogs. Positions on the runners, commands to give: you’ll discover the musher ‘s trade and imagine setting off to conquer the Canadian Far North!
Alone or with the family?
Dogsled christenings in Annecy are suitable for singles, couples or families of up to 4 people (2 adults and 2 children). Check with the service providers, who offer different packages depending on the size of the sleds and harnesses.
For the driving, you’ll be in charge of your own crew, but you’ll leave in a convoy of 5 or 6 sleighs, for a beautiful ride on a hilly course. There’s no reason why you can’t enjoy this activity as a couple or a family!
Good to know: All durations are available, so it’s up to you to choose how much time you want to devote to the activity. Baptisms last between 30 minutes and an hour. Introductory driving sessions last from 45 minutes to a full afternoon.
A simple stroll or a meeting with the dogs?
If you simply want to enjoy the thrill of the ride, opt for a baptism. On the other hand, some centers offer you a visit to their kennels and explain all the secrets of sled dogs. You’ll discover the history of sledding, the different breeds of dog, their way of life, their food… Ideal if you want to learn more about this activity!
Once you’ve answered all these questions, you’ll be able to choose the activity that suits you best. Note that driving is possible from the age of 10 for beginners’ courses, and generally from the age of 14 for half-day advanced courses.
How does a dog sled ride in Annecy work?
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Depending on the Annecy sled dog activity you choose, the session will unfold differently.
For the baptism, you’ll spend 10 to 15 minutes talking with the musher. He’ll explain the basic safety rules and details of the route to ensure that the ride goes as smoothly as possible. During the ride, you’ll be able to make stops, and the musher will tell you more about the dogs’ behavior.
For driving, you can choose from several packages.
- At the initiation, you attend a 15-minute briefing during which the musher explains safety and how to maneuver the sled. You then set off for a 45-minute ride, with breaks to give you a few tips;
- On the half-day driving tour, you’ll take charge of the dogs from the kennels until your return. Accompanied by a musher who will tell you all the secrets of his trade, you will harness the dogs in their assigned places, according to their character and strengths. You’ll then set off for an hour and a half of driving. On the way back, you’ll be able to take part in the care and feeding of the dogs.
When is the best time to go dog sledding in Annecy?
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To get the most out of dog sledding in Annecy, you need to go in winter, when the mountains around the town are covered in snow. In the Bornes or Aravis massifs, you’ll find yourself in a veritable Savoyard Canada.
You’ll feel like you’re immersed in a Jack London novel, exploring the wilds of North America. However, it’s also possible to enjoy the dogs in summer. Sledges are replaced by go-karts, children’s sulkies and even all-terrain scooters. This way, you can meet the dogs and discover the magnificent Alpine landscapes under the sun!
Our tips for dog sledding in Annecy
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In winter, temperatures can drop very low, so we advise you to dress warmly. Even though you’ll be bundled up in the sleigh, make sure you wear warm clothes, ideally a ski suit and gloves. You’ll also be walking in the snow before and after the ride, so be sure to bring moisture-resistant footwear.
The faster you go, the colder it gets for your head, so take along a scarf and a hat. Finally, in summer and winter alike, don’t forget sunglasses to protect your eyes, and sunscreen for your face!
A dog sled ride is an unforgettable experience, but you may also want to share it with your loved ones! Don’t forget to take your camera with you, and don’t forget the strap so you don’t risk dropping it. You can ask the musher for the best places to stop during the ride, so you can get some great shots.
Some companies also offer to film your escapade, which is ideal if you want to enjoy this magical moment to the full, without having to invest in equipment.
How much does a dog sledding trip cost?
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Prices vary according to the activity chosen. For a dog sledding experience in Annecy, expect to pay between €50 per person for a 20-minute ride and €300 for a 3-hour family outing.
For sled driving, expect to pay between €100 for an introduction and €200 for a half-day.