Where to go ski touring around Marseille?

1. Le Dévoluy: a lunar hike

⏱ Driving time: approximately 2.5 hours
🎿 Level: beginner to expert

Le Dévoluy is a bit like the perfect combo between accessibility and crazy landscapes. Located a little over 2 hours from Marseille, this massif is a gem for hiking enthusiasts.

Whether you’re a novice or a pro at converting uphill, there’s something for everyone. Beginners will love the Col de Rabou , with its gentle climb and breathtaking views. For more seasoned riders, head to the Pic de Bure , which peaks at 2,709 meters. Yes, it stings the calves a little, but I promise, it’s worth the detour. Spoiler: mountain desert and lunar landscapes in sight.

Muule tips : a compact and breathable down jacket to keep you warm without dripping during the climb. And to avoid frozen hands on the descent, remember to double your ski gloves with a good thermal layer .

2. Queyras: the wild paradise

⏱ Driving time: approximately 3h30
🎿 Level: intermediate to expert

If you are more of a “calm and small alpine villages where time seems to have stood still” type of person, we suggest an ultra-authentic spot: Queyras . Here, there are no ski lifts in sight, just you, your seal skins and a soothing silence.

The must-see? The Col de Longet, a route accessible to intermediate skiers, with a descent that already gives good sensations. For experts, you can try the Pain de Sucre . The name is cute, but the climb is tough. Come on, are you a muule or not?

Little Muule tips : a backpack with an integrated ski rack for carrying sections (we know you love that) and telescopic poles to adjust the height according to the terrain.

3. Les Écrins: high mountain atmosphere

⏱ Driving time: approximately 3h30
🎿 Level: intermediate to expert

The Écrins National Park is a bit like the Everest of the Southern Alps. Dizzying peaks, crazy glaciers, and routes that give you chills (in every sense of the word).

A nice route to start in this impressive massif: the climb to the Col d'Arsine , starting from Villar-d'Arêne. It's beautiful, accessible and perfect for getting your legs going. For experts, we suggest the famous Barre des Écrins . Prepare your thighs and your Insta stories.

Muule tips : a technical first layer to stay warm and dry during exercise. And we can't say it enough, don't forget your avalanche safety pack (DVA, shovel, probe).

4. Ubaye: the well-kept secret

⏱ Driving time: approximately 3 hours
🎿 Level: beginner to expert

For a less frequented spot, where you can trace your own route without crossing paths with half of the Marseillais on a hike: head to Ubaye . It's wild and the trails are extremely varied. In short, paradise for muules who want to get off the beaten track.

A must? The climb to the Col de Mary , on the Italian border, with its crazy landscapes and its descent that will remain etched in your memory (and in your thighs). For the more daring muules, try the Aiguille de Chambeyron mountain . But we warn you: it's a climb.

Little Muule tips : a good pair of lightweight ski touring boots to make your climbs easier and softshell pants that will withstand all falls (because yes, there will be some).

5. Mercantour: between snow and the Mediterranean

⏱ Driving time: approximately 2.5 hours
🎿 Level: beginner to expert

The Mercantour is a bit like the cherry on the cake. On one side, the snow-capped mountains and on the other, the blue reflections of the water... nothing less.

A cool route to start with: the Col de Cerise (you couldn't make it up), perfect for an introductory outing in a crazy setting. A short but sporty hike in a wild atmosphere with on the program: a short break by a lake and a stylish view of the Italian peaks.

If your ultra-tight glutes are ready to climb Mount Ténibre (a little +1944m all the same), we suggest the Rabuons to Vens circuit, a two-day hike with a nice stop at the Rabuons refuge .

Little Muule tips : to be on top, a good breathable fleece and an insulated thermos for a hot coffee with a view.