What to Do in the Mercantour in Winter?

Wondering what you can do in the Mercantour in winter? This preserved mountain range in the Southern Alps is filled with fantastic activities and offers a true nature escape. Between pristine viewpoints, thrilling outdoor experiences, authentic villages, and relaxing moments, the Mercantour has everything you need for an unforgettable winter getaway. Follow the guide: we’re here to help you prepare your best adventures in the heart of this must-visit national park.

Must-Do Outdoor Activities in the Mercantour in Winter

If you’re asking what to do in the Mercantour in winter, here are some great ideas!

The Most Beautiful Winter Panoramas in the Mercantour

In winter, the Mercantour National Park reveals breathtaking scenery: untouched valleys, powder-coated ridges, and crisp winter light that enhances the landscape. From the Vallée des Merveilles or Lac des Grenouilles, you can enjoy wide-open views of exceptional panoramas. These lookout points, accessible with snowshoes, offer total immersion in the heart of the national park.

Thrill Activities for Adventure Lovers

If you love adrenaline, you’re in for a treat! Ski touring outings, freeride descents supervised by certified instructors, or snowshoe routes on more technical terrain. Winter in the Mercantour also allows you to try ice climbing with a guide or tackle routes suitable for experienced hikers and occasional trekkers. You’ll evolve in a wild environment, far from the crowds and always at the heart of the park.

Family-Friendly Experiences for All

For a gentler program with younger kids, the Mercantour offers plenty of winter activities suitable for families: easy snowshoe walks, snow play, short strolls around villages (such as Saint-Martin-Vésubie), or ski initiation in safe areas. These activities let you enjoy the mountains effortlessly, in a peaceful and friendly atmosphere.

Snow Sports and Ski Resorts in the Mercantour

Perfect for snow lovers and adventure seekers!

The Main Resorts to Choose From

The Mercantour is home to several iconic ski resorts, ideal for a varied winter stay in the Alpes-Maritimes. Among the region’s ski resorts, you’ll find Isola 2000, Auron, Valberg, and La Colmiane — all offering a wide selection of slopes and different atmospheres. Each resort provides quick access to high mountains and a multitude of winter activities for everyone.

Alpine Skiing, Snowboarding, and Alternatives

The Mercantour resorts allow you to enjoy alpine skiing and snowboarding on ski areas suitable for all levels. Wide slopes for beginners, technical sections for experts, snowparks, fun zones… there’s something for everyone. You can also try ski touring to explore wilder terrain, accompanied by a local instructor for total safety.

Cross-Country Skiing, Biathlon, and Dog Sledding

To get off the beaten path, the Mercantour offers superb Nordic skiing trails linking snowy valleys and forests. Some areas also offer biathlon initiation (such as the Boréon Nordic Center or La Colmiane), combining shooting and gliding in a preserved natural setting. For a unique experience, let yourself be tempted by a dog-sledding ride — a gentle, immersive adventure where you may even spot wildlife if you’re lucky.

Winter Hikes and Snowshoe Walks

Perfect for hikers and curious explorers!

Iconic Routes for Beginners and Experts

The Mercantour National Park is full of beautiful winter routes. Among the must-sees: the Vallée des Merveilles on snowshoes, the Castérino plateau, Lac des Grenouilles, and various routes around Saint-Martin-Vésubie. Real favourites!

Guided Hikes With Local Experts

To enjoy the snow with peace of mind, guides and mountain leaders in the Mercantour offer outings adapted to your level. They help you stay safe, understand local wildlife, and discover preserved areas of the park. You’ll be able to learn about the secrets of the national park with your guide. An excellent option if you’re a beginner or looking to explore more technical routes.

Nature Discoveries and Winter Wildlife in the Mercantour National Park

Perfect for wildlife lovers and nature enthusiasts!

Observing Chamois, Ibex, and Other Species

In winter, the Mercantour National Park offers ideal conditions for spotting wildlife. Chamois, ibex, mouflons, and foxes are easier to track thanks to their footprints in the snow. Try to find them! Around the Vallée des Merveilles or Boréon, you may spot these species in a pristine landscape, often at sunrise.

Nature Outings With Park Specialists

For a responsible approach, nothing beats an outing with a ranger or a specialized guide. These experts know the best observation spots, respect distances, and teach you how to interpret animal behaviour. A rich experience, perfect for understanding the fragile winter ecosystem of the Mercantour.

Wellness Stays and Unique Accommodation in Winter

Treat yourself to a little relaxation after a day out in the snow!

Spas, Thermal Baths, and Wellness Experiences

For a cocooning break in the Mercantour National Park, enjoy a wellness escape in Saint-Martin-Vésubie, where several spas offer saunas, outdoor jacuzzis, massages, and complete treatments. The Valdeblore wellness center also allows you to combine relaxation and alpine scenery: hot baths, hammam, and relaxation areas with views of the snowy peaks.

Unique Winter Accommodation in the Mercantour

Want to enjoy a truly special stay? Spend a few nights in a mountain refuge chalet perched on the slopes of the Mercantour massif, where silence reigns and starry nights await. For an even more unusual experience, treehouses or cosy heated “bubbles” offer total immersion in nature and the magic of winter. An unforgettable experience!

Practical Tips to Prepare Your Winter Stay in the Mercantour

To organize your winter adventure, choose a leisure hotel inside the Mercantour National Park: it places you right next to ski areas, snowshoe itineraries, and viewpoints. The Hôtel Les Rabuons even offers snowshoe access directly from the doorstep, making nature outings much easier.
Make sure you’re properly equipped: technical clothing, snowshoes, poles, and suitable footwear are essential. Check the weather and road conditions before heading out, and bring snow chains or winter tires. Book your activities (snowshoes, skiing, dog sledding) in advance, especially during school holidays.
With these tips, your stay in the Alpes-Maritimes and the Mercantour will be smooth, full of discoveries, and truly memorable!