The Enfetchores

The magnificent slope of the Enfetchores, located below the north face of la Meije, immediately catches the attention of any passionate skier contemplating it from the village of la Grave. Skiing down the Enfetchores is a legendary ski descent in the Oisans massif and one of the most beautiful itineraries of the Alps! A stunning and intense journey over the course of one day. From the top of la Grave-la Meije ski lifts at the Dôme de la Lauze (3568m / 11,706ft), we first ski down an impressive south-facing slope of 1000 vertical meters (3,280ft) to reach the Vallon de la Selle. From there, we put on our skins and climb up to the Brèche du Râteau (3235m / 10,613ft). On the other side, we descend a steep couloir followed by an exposed traverse that leads us to the base of the impressive south face of la Meije. We skin up to the Brèche de la Meije (3357m / 11,013ft): the panorama is absolutely breathtaking standing next to la Meije. Its a magical high mountain environment. We rappel over the Brèche de la Meije and the bergschrund below it, reaching the top of the outstanding ski descent of the Enfetchores. The upper part of the slope skis past immense crevasses, and the views are awe inspiring. The terrain narrows and steepens as we approach the Vallon. Its a committing ski tour with a huge vertical! After almost a thousand meters (3,280ft) down from the top of the slope, we have the choice between two different options: to reach the first station of the lift at P1 (1800m / 5,905ft) or to ski straight down to the village of la Grave, the final destination of a fantastic ski day in the high mountains!