Faced with the challenges of climate change and evolving farming practices, the Seignus station, at Val d'Allosis blazing a new trail. With five signposted, safe ski touring itineraries, it is banking on a booming offer to appeal to the curious and the passionate alike.
Le Seignus didn't wait for the recent craze for ski touring. Over the last two years, the resort has been developing an original network of five routes, from the most accessible to the most demanding. The idea is simple: to give everyone the chance to discover the mountain and its landscapes in a different way.
"We wanted to expand our offer beyond downhill skiing". explains Romain Kasdorf, head of outdoor activities. "These itineraries offer customers the freedom to diversify their activities, while enabling the resort to adapt to new audiences.
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With 900 metres of ascent and routes leading up to the summits of Autapie (2,426 m) and Gros Tapy (2,374 m), the scenery is grandiose. The panoramic view over the Mercantour and the silhouette of Rochecline, nicknamed "the reclining woman", alone justifies the effort of the ascent.
A life-size laboratory
Launched as a real "ski laboratory", this project marks a strategic reorientation. The routes, marked with yellow signs and markers, are integrated into the avalanche control plan (PIDA), guaranteeing maximum safety.
"This is a crucial point: as soon as the pistes are open and groomed, so are the hiking routes". insists Romain Kasdorf. There are two possible departures: one free of charge at the foot of the resort, the other at the top of the Clos Bertrand chairlift, accessible with a ski pass.
This accessibility attracts a varied clientele. From beginners who have come to try out the sport to experienced sportsmen and women, not forgetting teams who are already training for competitions in ski mountaineering, now an Olympic discipline. "The Federation has even expressed an interest in sending teams to train here. adds Kasdorf.
Between carving and powder, a complete resort
As well as ski touring, Le Seignus retains its traditional strengths: 40km of pistes linked to the summits by three lifts, areas popular for carving, such as the reds in the Autapie valley, and the blacks at La Clappe and L'Abreuvoir, reserved for thrill-seekers. Freeriders will also be delighted by the slopes of Valcibière.
With its blue itineraries descending from the summit and its family-friendly areas, the resort continues to play on diversity. But it is ski touring, with its wild landscapes and sustainable approach, that is redefining its identity.
"We're already seeing real interest, particularly from ski schools and young people". notes Romain Kasdorf. By combining tradition and innovation, Le Seignus shows that the future of resorts lies in inventiveness and openness to new ways of experiencing the mountains.