Sledging means travelling down a snowy slope with a gliding device suited to the terrain. This winter activity takes several forms depending on the equipment used, the type of run and the balance between walking and gliding. Around Annecy, the activities offered take place at Semnoz or in the alpine pastures of Revard.
Snow sledging is different from rail sledging. A rail sledge runs on a fixed track and often operates all year round at some ski resorts. This is sometimes called a “4-season sledge” because it can open regardless of snow conditions. Snow sledging, by contrast, gives you a real connection with nature in winter. Every bend feels different, and every glide brings its own sensations.
This family activity is popular both for its playful side and for the pleasure of learning to handle an unusual piece of kit. The moderate level required to try these gliding activities makes them accessible for a family outing.
The paret focuses on Savoyard tradition and the atmosphere of a late-afternoon outing, from December to March, lasting around 1 hour 30 minutes. This sledge is ridden seated on a single runner and is organised after the Semnoz ski area has closed.
The sledging hike and the Évvo Zipfy option split the effort between walking and gliding, so you can enjoy the snowy scenery in woodland and across open clearings. The inflatable sledge is ideal for a really sociable moment. This activity is practised lying face down, head first, creating a very different set of sensations.
“Discovering the paret was brilliant, and Pascal really made the experience exceptional: a passionate guide who was truly outstanding.” - Clelia Grassot, customer review
Semnoz offers a mountain outing above Annecy. Revard sits at 1,500 metres above sea level, halfway between Annecy and Chambéry, near Aix-les-Bains. These two areas give you access to a gliding activity without needing to plan a full ski resort stay. Sledging fits easily into a weekend away or a holiday in Savoie.
The sociable nature of mountain sledging makes it a good fit for families, friends, couples and groups. Everyone shares the same route while controlling their own descent according to the guide’s instructions.
The natural landscape shapes the experience directly. The slope affects the speed, the length determines the effort and the type of snow changes the comfort of the glide. The guide therefore adapts the itinerary and support for each outing.
Finding the right route first means knowing the group’s ability, the type of device you want and the day’s conditions.
The four activities offered by Annecy Aventure require a moderate level of fitness, meaning they are accessible to most people with a minimum of effort, unless there are any medical restrictions. Based on the information above, we can advise you on the most suitable activity.
The gliding position changes how the sledge feels to use:
-The paret requires you to find your balance on a single runner.
-The inflatable sledge places the participant face down.
-The sledging hike requires you to steer a sledge while seated.
The minimum age and accessibility are confirmed for the chosen activity at the time of booking. This depends on the equipment, the route and the moderate fitness level required. For a family outing with children, their age should be taken into account so the team can direct you towards a compatible, suitable and safe format.
The night-time paret descent comes with an extra requirement: it is available for groups of at least 10 participants. This format is well suited to outings with colleagues, birthdays and groups organising a stag or hen do, for example.
Safety starts with the briefing and getting used to the equipment. During the activity, it is important to listen carefully to the guide’s instructions (speed, distance between participants, stopping points and so on).
For every activity, wear clothing suitable for cold or cool weather: a hat, gloves (rather than mittens), a good jacket and mountain boots or après-ski boots.
Weather and snow cover directly affect whether sledging activities can go ahead. The Annecy Aventure team will keep you informed if an activity has to be cancelled or postponed because of unfavourable weather conditions.
Booking with our Annecy Aventure team lets us confirm available time slots, the current weather conditions, the participants’ ages and the equipment you need to bring on the day. Our team is available Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 12:30 pm and from 2:00 pm to 5:30 pm, as well as on Saturdays from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm, to answer all your questions and booking requests.
A gift voucher can also be offered so you can plan your outing later, depending on availability and opening conditions.
Airboard sledging: from 12 years old. Evvo Zippy sledging: from 6 years old. Sledging hike: from 5 years old.