Idea for a hike in Savoie: the Quatre Têtes!

We're off on a hike starting from Burzier (the former ski resort of Sallanches). It's a very simple itinerary, starting with the path leading up to the Chalets de Doran (which can be used by snowshoers). Then you simply climb up the combe to a Col and follow the ridge to the summit. This route is quite popular at weekends, but on a Monday, there's not a cat in the house..

The trail was good and we hesitated to climb to the Col de la Forclaz and do the Pointe d'Areu: the couloir didn't really inspire us, so we changed our minds and finally went to the Quatre Têtes.

Superb views of the Fiz chain and the Mont Blanc massif.

For the descent via the North Face or not? That is the question... In view of the snow conditions, we decide to descend not too far from the ascent track. The snow is not great, but it's great to ski in this part of the Aravis.

Back at the car park, there's the option of climbing to the top of the old ski area (which has been dismantled) to reach the Chalets de Mayères at the foot of the Quatre Têtes.

Outing: the Chalets de Mayères

A hike starting from Burzier, the former ski resort of Sallanches. It's a very simple route, popular with snowshoers. There are plenty of signs pointing the way to the Chalets. For first-time snowshoers, this can be a great short introduction to the route without being too exposed or risking getting lost. The climb is steady, but not very steep, and very pleasant, with splendid views over the whole massif.