The idyllic Grand Paradis cross-country ski circuit is the perfect training ground for beginner, intermediate or expert skiers, just a stone's throw from Champéry.
Nestled in a fairy-tale landscape, the Champéry cross-country ski circuit winds through snow-covered spruce forests just 2 km from Champéry.
The circuit is comprised of three adjacent loops. The first, ‘Grand-Paradis’ is ideal for beginners as it is almost completely flat. The second loop, ‘Les Couailles’, has a small incline. The third loop, ‘Les Planchamps’, is the most technical, with a downhill slope followed by a turn.
The cumulated length of the three loops is approximately 4.3 km with about 90 m D+ and all loops are groomed for both classic and skating styles.
Depending on snow conditions, the first loop may be open, even if the second or third loops are closed. Please consult the snow report for more information.
A cross-country ski pass is available for purchase at the Tourist Office and the Palladium sports centre. Equipment can be rented from local sports shops.
Turn-by-turn direction
The starting point is located just behind the Grand Paradis picnic shelter. Follow the turquoise Romandie Ski de Fond markers to begin the first loop.Head to the right, skiing around the large field, and making a second smaller loop around the Alpes'Huskies chalet in the middle of the meadow.
To reach the second loop, continue to the top of the field and follow the markers through the forest to a second clearing. After a small incline, follow the trail to the left to ski along the river in a long, straight line.
To stay on the first two loops, re-enter the forest and take a sharp left to then return to the clearing on an s-shaped path. A slight descent in a straight line will take you back to your starting point.
If you wish to do the third, more technical loop, cross the river and head uphill, following the trail that zigzags through the pasture before descending down the opposite side of the field. At the edge of the forest, the trail will curve round to re-connect with the clearing on the second loop.
Tips and recommendations
The first two loops are also illuminated every evening until 9 pm.
Best time of year
Subject to snow conditions.
Accessibility
Prestations
- Car park
- Parking nearby
- Coach parking
- Motorhomes allowed
Prices
Payment methods
- Bank/credit card
- Cash
Useful links
Location
By car:
Take the Route de la Fin 2 kilometres past Champéry to Grand Paradis. Free parking at the Grand Paradis picnic shelter.
By public transportation:
From the CFF train station in Aigle, take the AOMC (Aigle – Ollon – Monthey – Champéry) train to the terminal station 'Champéry'. Timetables on www.cff.ch ou www.tpc.ch
From the Champéry cable car, take the free shuttle bus from the cable-car to the Grand Paradis chairlift (5 minutes). Timetables at www.pds-ch.ch