Nordic adventures in the Vercors
The village of Gresse-en-Vercors, located on the eastern slopes of the Vercors massif and at the edge of the Trièves region, is the highest and largest village in the massif. It offers wide open spaces and a vast ski area, making it an ideal spot for cross-country skiing.
The powder snow that fell heavily during the night has covered the meadows in a glittering white blanket that sparkles under a bright blue sky – perfect conditions for a cross-country skiing trip!
Make tracks
With its 50 kilometres of well-maintained pistes in all colours – from green to black – and its wide open spaces, the family resort of Gresse-en-Vercors has been a magnet for cross-country skiing enthusiasts for generations.
‘We’ve been skiing here for fifty years,’ says Dominique Greslou proudly. After thirty-five years as piste manager, this retiree, who continues to look after the resort as a local councillor, still loves driving his piste basher up to the Col de l’Allimas.
Between forests & meadows
The Allimas black run
Winding 13 kilometres through meadows and forests, the Allimas trail is the holy grail for seasoned athletes wanting to immerse themselves in nature, while offering a unique view of Mont Aiguille, the local landmark.
“The real challenge,” jokes Dominique Greslou, “is getting up that first hill without taking off your skis!”
Even on days when the weather isn’t ideal, the village of Gresse-en-Vercors offers plenty of themed tours and other non-skiing activities in an authentic mountain environment.
Rooms with a view
Hélène Levadoux, a mountain guide and potter, made a dream a reality fifteen years ago: to ski right from her doorstep. With her family, she moved to an old mill on the banks of the Gresse river, a home situated perfectly at the very start of the plain’s cross-country trails.
Five furnished guest rooms are now available, each offering a breathtaking view of Grand-Veymont, the 2,341-metre peak that towers majestically over the village.
Put on your skis
For a gentle start to the Nordic skiing season in Gresse-en-Vercors, mountain guide Hélène recommends: the 2km Plaine Trail for a warm-up; the 3.9km Glacière for a slightly longer option; or the 7.3km Gressette if you want to go further.
Hélène Mountain guide & Host at the Aiguillette Lodge Bed and breakfast in Trièves
Getting started in Nordic skiing
The resort of Gresse-en-Vercors offers a short, free one-hour circuit designed for beginners to discover the thrill of Nordic skiing, a fitness sport experiencing a renaissance.
It is recommended to start with the classic or “alternative” technique, which involves gliding along parallel tracks with your skis. This technique is the easiest and most accessible for beginners. The more demanding skating technique, which resembles rollerblading or ice skating, requires greater balance and strength
For a quick fix, there’s nothing like taking one or two lessons with an instructor. You can also benefit from a free supervised introduction, including equipment hire, through the “Osez le Nordic” (“Dare to Try Nordic”) initiative, organised annually across nine ski areas in Isère.
