5 ideas for outdoor activities for the New Year.

Ah, New Year's Eve. That time when tradition dictates that we let off some sparkle, eat foie gras petits fours and dance hard to an 80s playlist. But let's face it: boring evenings or overly formal dinners are starting to feel like rehash, right? So this year, we're forgetting the couch and stilettos and embarking on an outdoor adventure worthy of the name.

We have concocted some really cool ideas for a New Year's Eve in the great outdoors . Prepare your competitive backpacks , sharpen your crampons , and get out your headlamp : this year, we're activating adventure mode for a crazy 31st.

1. A night hike and campfire.

There's nothing like a breath of fresh air to end the year and start the next one with well-oxygenated lungs. The recipe? Find an easy but nice hike (because we all have that friend who's out of breath after 15 minutes). If possible, with a stunning view of the sunset and a small family campfire . Remember to prepare your " New Year's Eve menu ": sausages to grill, a few chestnuts to play the adventurer, and of course, a thermos of mulled wine.

Muule tips: we bet on an ultra-warm jacket and well-insulated pants . And always a survival blanket at the bottom of the bag (to use as a ground sheet to keep your little bottom warm).

2. A torchlit snowshoe hike

Fireworks are cool, but a walk in the snow in the middle of the night is way better. Head to the mountains or a nice hill for a much more chilled atmosphere under the stars. We set the scene: a blanket of immaculate snow, a soothing silence, just the sound of your little footsteps and the torches twinkling in the night. We guarantee it's ultra magical (and very Instagrammable). To organize yourself in complete freedom or in turnkey walk mode for those lacking inspiration.

Little Muule tips : a neck warmer and a hat that keeps you warm, sturdy, practical snowshoes , and poles (OK, ONE pole for the torchlight outing).

3. A New Year's Eve "igloo party" version

If you really want to impress your friends, we've come up with a crazy challenge: build an igloo to host your New Year's Eve party. Yes, a real one. The starting point? Find a very, very snowy place. For the ultra-handy muules, we've put together a little tutorial for those who want to embark on this in(ed)uite adventure. Arm yourself with shovels, buckets and a little elbow grease and create the most hype ephemeral spot in the region. A few blankets, a good playlist and you're done.

Little Muule tips : a pair of very warm après-ski shoes to insulate your little feet from the ground (because it's especially chilly on the ground here), a competitive baselayer and a stylish fleece (because it's New Year's Eve after all).

4. A dive into icy water.

Do you love challenges and are you looking for an activity that will make your New Year's Eve a memorable one? Welcome to the world of Nordic baths. But be careful, we're not talking about a nice warm jacuzzi. No, here, we dive into a frozen river or lake to "purify" ourselves before the new year. It's the most effective way to boost yourself after a tiring year (and to get your adrenaline pumping). And above all, it's a great topic of discussion at the January 1st brunch ("What did you do yesterday? Me? I swam in a lake at 2 degrees").

Little Muule tip : bring a big poncho towel to dry yourself off and something to warm up quickly: ultra-cozy slippers or even heated socks and gloves for the ultra-chilled muules.

5. A frozen bivouac.

What's better than ending the year by sleeping in the great outdoors? OK, let's not kid ourselves, winter bivouacking is for real muules. But if you're well equipped (and well motivated), it's a crazy experience. You will have a front row seat to admire the sunrise on January 1st. And frankly, there is no better way to start a new year in style. All this accompanied by a small meal prepared on the stove : hot soup or fondue for the cheese-loving muules (and a few sweets all the same).

Little Muule tips : asleeping bag designed to withstand polar temperatures (because forget about a summer duvet at -5°C) and a high-quality tent that doesn't get wet or windy (otherwise, it's a failure).

So, are you ready for an outdoor New Year’s Eve that’s a bit lively?

Whether you're a snowshoe, igloo or ice bath team, the most important thing is to have fun and share a cool moment with your loved ones. And don't forget, good organization and high-performance, quality equipment are the basis for making your outdoor adventures a success... even the craziest ones.

In the meantime, happy new year, muules :).

Article written by Marine de Muule on December 27, 2024.