Vialattea: Snowshoeing in the Snowy Forest — An Authentic Winter Adventure
Imagine slipping into a peaceful, snowy landscape where silence is broken only by your footsteps and the whisper of the wind. That’s the essence of the Vialattea snowshoeing experience in Piedmont, Italy. While I haven’t personally strapped on snowshoes here, I can tell you this tour offers a combination of stunning vistas, expert guidance, and a hearty mountain lunch that makes it worth every euro.
What really stands out is the knowledgeable guides—including friendly ski instructors who make safety and fun their top priorities—and the chance to walk through ancient forests and alongside frozen lakes. The delicious lunch at Capanna Mautino, a historic refuge, is a highlight that offers a well-earned break from the cold. However, you should note that the duration of about 5 hours may be a bit long for families with small children or anyone with limited stamina.
Two things I really appreciate are the small group size and the personalized attention from guides who share local stories and tips, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. On the downside, the activity is not suitable for children under 10, and it’s dependent on weather conditions, so a sudden snowstorm or fog might cut your adventure short. Still, the flexibility of booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance helps travelers plan with confidence.
Key Points / Takeaways
- Guided expertise: Certified ski instructors ensure safety and provide local stories, making the trek both fun and informative.
- Stunning scenery: Walk through dense larch forests, reach the Black Lake, and take in panoramic mountain views.
- Authentic mountain experience: Lunch at Capanna Mautino, a historic refuge, adds a warm, local flavor to the day.
- Equipment included: Snowshoes and poles are provided, so no need to rent gear beforehand.
- Flexible booking: Reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the activity.
- Family-friendly: Not suitable for children under 10, but perfect for outdoor lovers looking for a safe, guided adventure.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Sestriere.
Entering The Snowy Forest: What to Expect
Your journey begins in the charming mountain village of Claviere, where the activity provider, Chaberton Outdoor Activities, sets the tone for an authentic mountain day. Meeting at the wooden cabin in front of the village’s church, you’ll be greeted by your guides, who will equip you with snowshoes and poles—a thoughtful touch that saves you the hassle and expense of renting gear on your own.
Once geared up, you’ll start your walk from the hamlet, giving everyone a chance to get comfortable with the snowpack and the equipment. The guides, including the well-reviewed “Dotty” (a dog guide mentioned in reviews), will accompany you along a gentle ascent through dense forests, ancient ruins, and possibly even some wild animals. Expect a soft, muffled silence broken only by your footsteps and the occasional bird call.
The route is carefully chosen to showcase some of the most scenic spots in the Vialattea region. As you make your way toward the Black Lake, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of over 2000 meters of natural ice and snow. This part of the trek feels like a true winter wonderland, with the lake’s frozen surface providing an otherworldly backdrop.
Your guides do more than just lead—they share stories and regional anecdotes, making the walk educational and more engaging. According to reviews, guides like GetYourGuide traveler and Barbara felt very welcome and appreciated the personal touch, with one mentioning how “the guides felt very welcoming and friendly.”
The Black Lake and the Viewpoint: Highlights of the Day
Reaching the Black Lake is a highlight you’ll likely remember long after your trip. It’s a natural spectacle at over 2000 meters, frozen solid during winter months, creating a surreal, icy mirror. The sense of achievement from reaching this point is palpable, especially after the slight ascent through the forest.
From here, you’ll have an opportunity to rest and perhaps take photos of the breathtaking scenery. The guides often include a short stop at a viewpoint, where you can soak in panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks—an ideal moment for a group photo or a quiet moment of reflection.
The route is designed to be accessible yet rewarding, with about three hours of guided walking. Some reviewers wish the walk could be longer, but they agree that the quality of the guide and the views more than compensate for the shorter duration.
A Delicious Mountain Lunch: The Perfect Reward
After your snowy trek, you’ll head to Capanna Mautino, a historic mountain refuge renowned for its local cuisine and warm atmosphere. The included lunch is more than just a meal—it’s a chance to indulge in traditional Piedmontese dishes in a cozy setting. Think hearty hearty soups, local cheeses, and mountain specialties, all served with a warm smile.
This meal provides a perfect break and a chance to swap stories with fellow travelers and guides. For those with a sweet tooth, the experience is topped off with some regional desserts, keeping your energy high for the return leg.
Returning to Claviere: Wrapping Up Your Day
The tour concludes back in Claviere, with plenty of time to reflect on your snowy adventure. The group size tends to be small, which means more personalized attention and ample opportunity to ask questions or share your impressions.
Throughout the day, the guides maintain a flexible approach—adjusting routes if weather changes or if the group prefers a longer or shorter walk. It’s a responsible approach that prioritizes safety but also ensures a satisfying experience.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This snowshoeing tour is best suited to outdoor lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone eager to explore the winter landscape without the need for advanced skiing skills. It’s particularly appealing to those who value authentic mountain atmosphere, enjoy guided cultural stories, and appreciate delicious local food.
While not suitable for children under 10, it’s a fantastic choice for families with older kids, couples, or solo travelers looking for a safe, scenic, and well-organized winter activity. The cost of $45 per person offers good value considering the gear, guide, transportation, and meal are included.
Price and Logistics: What You Need to Know
The price of $45 per person covers everything from gear to the guide and lunch, making it a pretty fair deal for a full 5-hour experience in such a scenic setting. The activity lasts about 5 hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability, so it’s worth checking the schedule.
The meeting point is at Piazza Europa, 1, Claviere, right in front of the village’s church, making it easy to find. The activity is not suitable for children under 10, but for older kids and adults, the safety measures and guidance make it a manageable and rewarding adventure.
It’s wise to reserve in advance—booking is flexible with pay later options and free cancellation up to 24 hours before, which helps if your plans change unexpectedly.
FAQs
What should I bring for the snowshoe tour?
Bring water, weather-appropriate clothing, and waterproof shoes. Prepare for a day outdoors in winter conditions, so layers are recommended.
Is gear included in the price?
Yes, snowshoes and ski poles are provided, saving you the hassle of renting or bringing your own.
How long does the tour last?
The activity lasts approximately five hours, including walking, stops, and lunch.
Can I join if I’m new to snowshoeing?
Absolutely. The guides will help you get comfortable with the equipment early on, and the terrain is suitable for beginners.
Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the experience is not suitable for children under 10 years old.
What happens if weather conditions change?
The guides may adjust the route or postpone the activity if safety is a concern, but they’ll do their best to ensure you enjoy your time on the mountain.
Final Thoughts
The Vialattea snowshoeing experience with Chaberton Outdoor Activities offers a fine mix of nature, culture, and outdoor fun at a reasonable price. The guided walk through snow-laden forests, a stunning frozen lake, and a cozy mountain lunch make for a memorable day in Italy’s Piedmont.
If you appreciate authentic mountain environments, expert guides, and a bit of adventure, this tour is well worth considering. It’s a relaxing yet invigorating way to enjoy the winter landscape, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and experience the quiet beauty of snow-covered forests and peaks. Just pack your warm clothes and your sense of adventure—this trip promises a day full of scenery, stories, and mountain magic.