Off-piste

Freedom is in the making

Enjoying the mountains with full awareness

Carving your own line through virgin snow, venturing off the marked runs, discovering unspoilt wilderness… off-piste skiing is one of the most memorable experiences the mountains have to offer.

But as soon as you leave the secure ski area, you’re in a natural environment that carries risks: avalanches, obstacles hidden by snow, rapid changes in weather or difficulties with navigation.

Before every trip, it is essential to find out the latest information, equip yourself properly and adapt your route to your ability level – ideally, go with a guide.

Off-piste

What you need to know

Outside the marked runs, you are responsible for your own safety

Open runs are safe, marked and monitored by the resort’s staff.

Conversely, when skiing off-piste:

there is no preventive avalanche control in place;
natural obstacles may be covered by snow;
conditions can change rapidly;
rescue operations can be more complex to carry out, particularly in adverse weather conditions. They often require the use of a helicopter. Make sure you are insured when in the mountains.

The 6 habits

before setting off

Check the weather

Visibility, wind, snowfall and temperatures have a direct impact on conditions in the mountains.

Check the avalanche risk

Find out about the avalanche risk by checking our snow report. Please note that the avalanche risk varies depending on altitude and the aspect of the slopes.

Make sure you’re properly equipped

Off-piste skiing requires a minimum set of safety equipment: an avalanche transceiver, a shovel and a probe. This equipment can be supplemented with an airbag rucksack and a RECCO® system. Learn how to use your safety equipment and practise using it.

Choosing a suitable route

The best route isn’t necessarily the most challenging one. Tailor your route to your ability and the conditions on the day.

Never set off alone / Make sure you can contact the emergency services

Off-piste skiing should be done in a group and never alone. Let someone know your route.
In the event of a problem, dial 112 or the ski patrol on 04 92 46 58 14.

Knowing when to give up

Turning back is often the best decision. When in doubt, there’s no doubt about it.

Awareness of off-piste skiing in resorts

Do you enjoy off-piste skiing in the resort or would you like to better understand the risks involved? The Vars ski patrollers invite you to join them for a session to discuss and raise awareness of best practice in the mountains.

What you need to know to take part:

Meet at 2 pm every Tuesday throughout the season, starting 22 December
The meeting point will be provided upon registration
A valid ski pass is required
Activity open to those aged 16 and over / maximum of 10 people per sector (2 sectors)
Register on site at the Tourist Office

Essential equipment

Avalanche transceiver, shovel, probe: the safety trio

Any off-piste excursion requires at least:

Avalanche Transceiver

Shovel

Probe

But simply owning this equipment is not enough.

It is essential to know how to use it effectively through training and regular practice

Go out with a guide

Discover the mountains with a professional

To explore off-piste terrain or improve your skills with complete peace of mind, call on the resort’s guides and instructors. They’ll help you progress in an environment suited to your ability, whilst teaching you best practice and mountain safety.

Off-piste

Outside the marked runs, you are responsible for your own safety

Awareness of off-piste skiing in resorts

/ More and more