Grand Odyssey Dog Sleigh Race (La Grande Odyssée Savoie Mont Blanc )

Between 9th – 18th January 2010 seven villages in the Haute Maurienne Vanoise region will host the sixth year of the Grand Odyssey Dog Sleigh Race, or La Grande Odyssée Savoie Mont Blanc as it’s known locally. It is the toughest international dog-sled race in the world and contested by 35 teams with approximately 350 dogs between them over 10 stages. The dogs are primarily Alaskan, Husky and Siberian Husky and must race approximately 500 miles, including 25000m of ascent and descent.

The race originated back in 1998 when two men, Henry Kam - a supporter of nature-adventure sporting events, and Nicolas Vanier - who was preparing to cross Canada with his dogs, became friends. They realised that no epic dog sled races existed in Europe and decided to create the epitome of dog sled races. On January 7th 2005 the first official event began in Avoriaz.

The beauty of the event primarily lies in its link with nature. It encourages the discovery of the mountain in a gentle way using an advanced understanding of and harmony with the dogs. It also begets courage and a respect for the environment. These factors, coupled with the relatively low impact it has on the terrain (it only leaves temporary footprints in the snow) have helped launch many environmental campaigns and promote ecological awareness. Today the spectacular La Grande  Odyssé attracts more than 70,000 spectators.

If you would like to book accommodation for this event, or indeed for a visit to Morzine whatever the time of year, rudechalets™  provide amazing and affordable catered and self-catered morzine accommodation

About the Author