On vacation in the Alps? Try snowmobiling in Tignes!
With a surface area of 3,680 hectares and 300 kilometers of slopes, Tignes-Val d’Isère is one of France’s largest ski areas. Its exceptional facilities cater for families and groups of friends, experts and beginners alike. But in addition to downhill, freestyle, touring and freeride skiing, there’s a whole host of other activities for young and old to enjoy. In this article, we take a look at how to choose your snowmobile outing in Tignes, an essential part of any winter vacation.
How to choose your snowmobiling activity in Tignes?
Photo credit: Shutterstock – franz12
If you want to go snowmobiling in Tignes, you can choose between several service providers. Tours are accessible by chairlift, skis or snowmobile accompanied by an instructor. Experiences differ according to your desires.
Baptism or driving?
Would you prefer to drive the machine or sit behind a monitor? If driving isn’t difficult, you may be tempted to let a professional guide you and admire the scenery. For those who want to take to the handlebars, there are various formulas. The pleasure session consists of a leisurely ride, while the sporty session takes you through more challenging sections at higher speeds. Perfect for thrill-seekers!
Day or night session?
In most resorts, snowmobiling is only available after closing time, as the trails are on the ski slopes. Tignes’ two snowmobile service providers each have a private area, allowing you to enjoy the Alpine scenery during your ride. At night, the atmosphere is magical, with a starry sky and no light pollution. You may even be lucky enough to catch a hare or a deer in the glow of your headlights!
A simple stroll or a combined experience?
Travelling with a group? It’s possible to organize a snow bar facing Mont Blanc. This original activity is ideal for a birthday party or bachelor/bachelorette party. In the evening, you can opt for a meal in the mountains.
Alternatively, you can join us in a heated yurt at an altitude of 2250 m, where you can enjoy an aperitif by the fire and a traditional Savoyard meal. After this beautiful mountain evening, you’ll sledge or snowmobile back down to Tignes.
How does a snowmobile ride in Tignes work?
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Oleksandr Katrusha
First, you need to get to the starting point of the activity. During the day, you can get there on skis, and thus vary the pleasures of your day on the slopes. Another option is to get there on foot or in a motorized machine piloted by a professional at dusk.
Once there, you’ll be briefed by a qualified instructor. Although the machine is not very hard to drive, you’ll still need to assimilate certain techniques to make the most of this special moment. During this ride in the heart of Savoie, you’ll take your place in a procession of up to 8 snowmobiles. Your instructor knows the terrain like the back of his hand, and knows when it’s time to be vigilant, and when it’s time to let your hair down!
You’ll enjoy a mix of groomed runs, powder and moguls, for even more fun. Sessions last between 20 and 40 minutes, depending on the package chosen.
When is the best time to snowmobile in Tignes?
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Peter Kirillov
As the name suggests, snowmobiling in Tignes is only possible if there is sufficient snow cover. The resort is open between December and April, and generally has a high snowfall during this period. You can find out more on the resort’s website before booking, or contact the service providers directly.
Our tips for snowmobiling in Tignes
As the machines can reach speeds of up to 60 km/h, it’s important to follow safety instructions. Listen carefully to the instructor’s briefing to learn which maneuvers to avoid. From distances between vehicles to optimal trajectories, he’ll let you in on all the secrets for a smooth outing.
The activity is accessible from the age of 9 as a passenger, or when the child is able to stand alone, depending on the provider. You can drive the machine on your own from the age of 16. Remember to bring proof of age with you. As you’ll be staying on private land, a driver’s license is not required.
Remember to dress warmly, as winter temperatures in Tignes can drop very low. Ideally, you’ll be wearing a ski suit, gloves and a hat.
How much does a snowmobile ride in Tignes cost?
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Delpixel
- Prices start at 75€ per machine, for two people and 20 minutes’ driving. This works out at 37.5€ for 10 minutes if both participants want to drive.
- The 30-minute « pleasure sessions » cost 61€ for the pilot and 29€ for the passenger.
- For a 40-minute« sports session », expect to pay €80 for the driver and €37 for the passenger.
- For an evening session with tasting of Savoyard products, add €40 per person.
- The mountain evening with aperitif and meal in a yurt costs 130€ for the driver, 98€ for the passenger and 76€ for a child.