Hello Jean, can you introduce yourself and your role in the Nordic area?
Originally from Saint-André-d'Embrun, cross-country skiing has been an integral part of my life since early childhood. My favorite playground, the Domaine de la Chalp, was the scene of my first glides, guided by the passion passed on by my father, a cross-country ski instructor at the time. Today, as the years go by, I find myself invested with the role of managing director of the Nordic area. My day-to-day work involves coordinating all aspects of trail opening and closing. I make sure that maintenance is meticulously carried out, so that the ski area is passable every day. My responsibilities extend to managing the team, maintaining rental equipment and making the necessary purchases. Behind the scenes, I juggle tasks as varied as accounting and communication with elected representatives.
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Would you be able to provide us with information on the La Chalp Nordic area and its snow conditions?
With its major asset, a vast plateau, La Chalp sets itself apart by offering accessibility to all ski enthusiasts, whether novice or experienced. At the entrance to the plateau, beginners will find green and blue runs in the beginners' area, while more experienced skiers can take on the challenge of the red runs, starting from the "Pont du Plan". The area along the torrent benefits from optimum snow conditions thanks to its north-facing aspect, guaranteeing ideal conditions that last throughout the ski season. Each trail is designed for both alternating and skating skiing. The snowshoe and pedestrian routes are clearly marked, separate from the cross-country ski trails, and open to all for a fee of €3. The biathlon stadium is ideal for beginners, offering by a SCOCE biathlon and ESF instructor.. Depending on snow conditions, a small relaxation area is set up, offering facilities such as picnic tables and a toboggan run, inviting you to take full advantage of the La Chalp experience.
What activities are available?
Do you offer supervision?
La Chalp offers a variety of activities including alternative skiing, skating, biathlon, snowshoeing, hiking and tobogganing. Lessons supervised by by professionals from SCOCE or ESF are available for all levels, offering a safe and enriching experience.
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What equipment is available at the Nordic Foyer, and is it possible to rent equipment?
At the Nordic Foyer, a full range of equipment is available, covering all needs:
- Skating skiing for all ages, adults and children from 3 upwards.
- Alternative skiing, suitable for all ages, adults and children from 3 years upwards.
- Rental of skis, boots, poles, snowshoes and toboggans.
Everything is provided to enable everyone to equip themselves and enjoy themselves to the full on site.
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The Nordic site is located in the heart of a remarkable, unspoilt natural setting. Can you tell us about it?
Authenticity prevails here, without the use of artificial elements or lifts. The site blends harmoniously into its natural surroundings, between fields and meadows, emphasizing a profoundrespect for nature. No artificial alterations are undertaken; on the contrary, what is already there is enhanced. The ski areas are not reserved exclusively for this activity; they already existed, forming an integral part of this preserved natural environment.
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To conclude this interview, do you have a little anecdote to tell us?
One memorable memory goes back to the time when skating was just emerging, and specific equipment was not yet available. I remember my father improvising with a pair of alternating skis. He'd gently flatten the scales to, as it were, "wax" the skis, eliminating the roughness for smooth gliding. Then he cut the skis to fit me. An ingenious trick that illustrates the ingenuity and passion for cross-country skiing at the time.
