Climbing in Les 2 Alpes

Not-so-gentle but extremely refreshing summer activity is one way to describe canyoning! Plunge yourself into the mountain streams via a series of abseil descents, jumps and natural water slides – just make sure you choose a warm day! You will make your way along rivers and rapids, using the riverbed as a natural obstacle course. Not suitable for very young children, but anyone over the age of about 8 can take the (very cold) plunge and try canyoning.

Les 2 Alpes is a great place for rock climbing for both beginners and experienced climbers. Experienced climbers can tackle the mountainside rock and enjoy the fantastic views (just make sure you have all the right gear and safety equipment). For beginners, there are a number of adventure companies or mountain guides who can take you out on your first climb and show you the 'ropes'.

The Oisans region boasts great climbing for those who wish to see more of the area. 

Le Vernis (750m) has 30 routes that are accessible all year round; Venosc (950m) has 51 routes and the climbing season runs from May to October; La Bérarde (1,500 to 2,000m) has a whopping 100 routes and is open throughout spring, summer and autumn; La Chalp (1,000m) has over 35 routes and is also open throughout spring, summer and autumn. 

The Ecrins National Park offers a range of climbing routes amongst them the south face of La Barre des Ecrins, a massive 2,000m wall with moderate 5c climbing, La Meije, a huge south face with more than 20 pitches of bolted 6b routes, the granite slabs at Ailefroide. Maps and guides for the various routes can be bought from one of the park information centres.

There is also an artificial 30m outdoor wall at the entrance of the resort with more than 45 routes ranging from 4a to 7c. To climb the south face you need to book at the mountain guides office, the other two are free to use.

Ice climbing is great if you're the sort of person that likes a bit of adrenaline and a challenge. Whether you're an experienced climber or a beginner you can have a go. There are 600 ice waterfalls you can climb in the Oisans region.

If you don't fancy climbing outdoors, or you're new to climbing and want to give it a go in an indoor centre, the Palais des Sports offers an indoor climbing wall. Climbing equipment is not provided.

There are a few companies that can take you mountaineering in both summer and winter, from local guides to ski schools, private instructors and activity companies. The summits of the Ecrins National Park, especially the Barre des Ecrins (4,101m) and La Meije (3,984m) are the most popular peaks in the area.

If climbing up sheer rock on the end of a piece of rope sounds a bit scary, then Via Ferrata climbing offers an element of security that still allows beginners to enjoy the achievement of having scaled a mountain! 

This form of climbing was invented by Italian soldiers in the Dolomites who used it to enable them to scale vertiginous faces easily and quickly. These days it is a popular sport that makes the thrill of mountain climbing more accessible to children, beginners and those who want a bit more security when they climb. 

Following marked routes through the mountains you are helped along by steps, bridges and ladders whilst being roped up for extra safety. Suitable for adults and children over the age of 8, guides can be arranged on request. There are numerous maintained routes throughout the Oisans region on which to explore the mountains from another angle. 

Recommended sites are the Gorges de la Durance near Vénosc and alongside the river in St. Christophe.