Immersed in the snow-covered landscapes of France, a dog sledding excursion offers a unique experience. From the Alps to the vast plateaux of the Massif Central, this age-old activity, once the preserve of polar explorers, is now available in some of France's finest resorts.
READ MORE: The 5 ideal ski resorts to come to with your dog
Discover the best destinations to book your trip to for an unforgettable snow holiday.
1. Avoriaz (French Alps)
Perched at an altitude of 1,800 metres, Avoriaz is a pioneer in Nordic activities. Renowned for its magical atmosphere and spectacular views, it offers a unique sled dog experience in an idyllic snowy setting. Excursions take you through vast forests and snow-covered plateaux, where the silence is disturbed only by the puffing of the dogs and the sliding of the sled.
There are many options on offer, from introductory walks of just a few kilometres to longer expeditions for total immersion in nature. Book with local mushers to ensure an authentic, environmentally-friendly experience.
Rates Inuit-Experience (from age 10): €110 per person for a 1-hour activity. Baby Taxi (up to 5 years): €25 per child for a ride of around 15 minutes.
Period From 13 December 2024 to 21 April 2025.
Reservation : Only on the website La Patte Nordic.
Meeting place In front of the Avoriaz Tourist Office.
Further information Activity accessible to children aged 10 and over for the Inuit-Experience and as soon as they can remain seated on their own for the Baby Taxi.
2. La Plagne (Savoie)
In the Tarentaise valley, La Plagne is the destination of choice for lovers of winter activities. With its varied itineraries and vast snow-covered areas, it offers total immersion in the world of mushing.
Experienced mushers will introduce you to the art of driving a dog team, while the walks will allow you to explore breathtaking mountain scenery. La Plagne is ideal for families, with tours adapted for children, who can also enjoy a special moment with the dogs. It's the perfect way to combine discovery and wonder.
Rates 1 or 2 people (max 160 kg): €130. 2 adults + 1 child under 10 (max 180 kg): €165. 2 adults + 2 children under 5 (max 180 kg): €190.
Period From 15 December 2024 to 26 April 2025, on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays.
Reservation Via the website Hors Trace Aventure.
Meeting place Plateau du Dou du Praz, accessible from Plagne Villages (20-minute walk).
Further information Activity for children aged 2 and over. Not recommended for pregnant women or people with back problems.
3. Les Contamines-Montjoie (Haute-Savoie)
Nestling in an unspoilt setting at the foot of Mont Blanc, this resort offers an intimate and authentic sled dog experience. Routes wind through dense forests, across pristine plateaux and along frozen rivers, offering spectacular views of the surrounding peaks.
Here, you can choose between leisurely rides, where you are the passenger, and initiations where you learn to drive your own carriage under the supervision of a professional musher. The proximity of the local wildlife adds a magical touch to the experience, making Les Contamines-Montjoie a must for nature lovers.
Rates Variable depending on the service chosen.
Period Winter season, depending on snow conditions.
Reservation Information from the Les Contamines-Montjoie Tourist Office.
Meeting place To be determined at the time of booking.
Further information Activity accessible to families and children.
4. Font-Romeu (Pyrénées-Orientales)
Set in the Parc Naturel Régional des Pyrénées Catalanes, Font-Romeu is a resort renowned for its tranquillity and unique landscapes. Dog-sleigh rides take you through the vast snow-covered expanses of this unspoilt region, between majestic fir trees and sparkling peaks.
Passionate mushers are happy to share their know-how and their love of dogs, allowing you to discover the secrets of this age-old activity. Night-time excursions are also available, offering a magical atmosphere under a starry sky or a full moon, for unforgettable memories.
Rates From €50 per person (variable according to duration and type of service).
Period From December to March, depending on snow conditions.
Reservation Contact the local service providers who specialise in Nordic activities.
Meeting place To be agreed when booking.
Further information Activity suitable for adults and children.
5. Les Rousses (Jura)
This resort in the heart of the Jura Massif offers a less-frequented but equally magical alternative for sled dog enthusiasts. With its network of Nordic trails, Les Rousses is ideal for a getaway with family or friends.
The walks, which take in forests and snow-covered plains, offer breathtaking views of the rolling countryside and ridges of the Jura. The tranquillity of the region enhances the contemplative aspect of the experience, allowing you to connect fully with nature and enjoy moments of complicity with your dogs.
Rates From €60 per person (variable according to duration and type of service).
Period Winter season, depending on snow conditions.
Reservation For more information, contact the Les Rousses Tourist Office or local service providers.
Meeting place To be determined at the time of booking.
Further information Activity open to families, couples and groups.
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