Try ski touring!

Meet Safia Lise, who is going to discover the mountains, on a ski tour.

Safia Lise, 31, a ski patroller at the Guzet resort since 2020, answers questions from Maritchu, who is curious about this outdoor activity.

Since when have you been going for walks in the mountains?

I've been ski touring for 10 years. I started slowly, practicing it only on the slopes, on the routes, and then little by little, I went beyond the resorts to end up exploring the summits. Because I know the mountains very well, thanks to my job, I was able to do it on my own very quickly. For me, it's a sport that allows you to discover the mountains, you're free to go wherever you want, it's as far as the eye can see, it's infinite.

What do you enjoy so much about your outings?

I really like the fact that it's as much a pleasure going up as it is going down. It's a holistic thing. Even though you're using up energy, you still feel like you're recharging at the same time. You eliminate all the stress and keep only the best.

And then making your mark in the powder is a real joy! Everything is white, everything is immaculate, there is no noise. It's magical! Like a journey through time, through space, even though you've only climbed 300m and the car is right next to you.

Animal encounters?

If we go to the mountains, we can sometimes see wildlife. We can see ptarmigans, jackdaws, ibex, chamois... It's really something sensational! And then I try to bring my little animal called Chorten as often as possible.

But actually, how do we dress?

As if we were going hiking in cold weather. And for the descent, it's good to have like a big down jacket and a Gore-Tex jacket, to be well protected from the wind and to stay warm. A pair of spare gloves, because if we go hiking and it's a bit windy, we take them off to eat a bar and hop one flies away, it smells like real life haha. And then, a bottle of water and some things to nibble on! Essential, in case of a little hunger.

What advice would you give to people who want to get started?

It's a special sport because it's not like tennis where you just buy a racket and go. For ski touring, you have to go through an initiation because it's complicated to go it alone like that. For that, it's the mountain guides and ski instructors. For a first time, it's good to do it close to a resort. That way you can benefit from groomed slopes and safe circuits.

Is specific equipment required?

Yes, we use touring skis, with a binding system that is different from that of alpine skiing. The heel can be raised, which allows for a more natural gait. The skis are equipped with synthetic skin, to prevent you from rolling backward when you climb; it's like an anti-return system. For the descent, you engage the boots in ski mode, lock them to have a fixed ankle, remove the skins and off you go!

Finally, what are your 3 favorite things about Couseran?

The Pic des 3 Seigneurs, because we're in the heart of the Ariège. We have a breathtaking view over the entire Couserans region. It's truly stunning!

And then it's on to the Guzet resort. The Pic du Cerda . It's a superb introductory hike. It's easily accessible. There isn't much elevation gain, and it's magnificent. It's a very pretty summit, but easily reachable. And finally, for those who want to put on crampons for a slightly more technical hike, there's the Pic du Séron ; it's a great route with a magnificent view of the Étang d'Aubé!

You too, use #couseranspyrenees on social media!

If you want to follow Safia Lise's adventures, follow her on Instagram! @safialise