A Hidden Gem for Off-the-Beaten-Track Ski Touring
The Terre Rouge sector, tucked away high above the Vallon de la Sache, offers a unique ski touring experience in Tignes. This route combines a gentle skinning ascent, breathtaking views of the suspended glacier of the Dôme de la Sache, and a wild descent through an isolated valley down to Tignes Les Brévières.
Though accessed from the lifts, the route requires a solid level of off-piste skiing, while remaining accessible to intermediate ski tourers. It’s an excellent alternative to the more frequented Vallon de la Sache descent—perfect for those seeking solitude, varied terrain, and a true alpine atmosphere.
👉 Book a guided ski touring experience in Tignes.
Access from the Top of the Aiguille Percée Chairlift
The route starts from the top of the Aiguille Percée chairlift at 2680m, on the southern side of the Tignes ski area. From here, a short bootpack with skis on your shoulder leads to the entrance of the off-piste Vallon de la Sache—a well-known spot among freeriders.
The initial descent follows the standard Vallon route, featuring mellow slopes that gradually narrow. Head north-northwest to reach the upper plateau, nestled below the towering Dôme de la Sache glacier.
👉 Join a ski touring guide to explore this route safely.
Skinning Up to the Col de Terre Rouge
At the plateau, it’s time to put on your skins and start the climb. The 300m ascent leads to the Col de Terre Rouge, a small ridge providing access to a high-altitude suspended valley.
This section weaves between moraines, small gullies, and gentle slopes, skirting the northern flank of the Dôme de la Sache. It’s a quiet, rarely travelled route offering a great opportunity to practise terrain reading and safe uphill travel.
Conditions to expect:
- Not technical, but requires steady effort
- Often wind-exposed, with firm or icy snow
- Great for learning safe ski touring techniques
👉 Explore our practical ski touring training sessions.
A Wild Descent to Tignes Les Brévières
From the Col de Terre Rouge at around 2980m, drop into a pristine upper valley facing west. This zone is rarely tracked and offers excellent snow quality and natural relief.
The descent unfolds as follows:
- Upper section: open, flowing terrain perfect for wide turns
- Middle section: more enclosed with dramatic rock walls
- Final section: gradually softens, leading into Tignes Les Brévières (1550m)
The landscape is breathtaking, with a true high-mountain feel and stunning views over the Isère valley.
TechnicalDetails
- Start: Top of Aiguille Percée chairlift – 2680m
- High point: Col de Terre Rouge – ~2980m
- Finish: Tignes Les Brévières – 1550m
- Uphillclimb: +300m
- Descent: 1200m vertical drop
- Aspect: North-west
- Duration: 3 to 4 hours
- Skill level: Confident off-piste skier / Intermediate ski tourer
- Gear required: Beacon (DVA), shovel, probe, helmet recommended
- Specific equipment: wide touring skis (90–100 mm) with skins + Ski crampons, and freeride-touring boots.
👉 Need to rent touring gear? Contact us for personalised equipment advice.
Safety & Recommendations
This is a non-patrolled, unmarked backcountry route. Preparation is key:
- Full avalanche safety kit
- Route planning and good orientation skills
- Weather and snowpack analysis before departure
- Ideally, a guide or qualified instructor from our team
👉 Meet our instructors in Tignes to help secure your outings.
Love This Terrain? Explore More Touring Routes
If you enjoyed the solitude and scenery of Terre Rouge, try these:
- Vallon de la Sache – A classic freeride line
- Col du Palet – A scenic, beginner-friendly ski tour
- North Face of the Grande Motte – For advanced freeriders
