Start your hiking training early - Focus on gradually improving your physical strength and endurance, and remember that if you get new boots, break them in well before you start your hike!
Good hiking socks - Choosing the wrong socks can affect your hike, so make sure to use the socks you plan to use on the hike when trying out boots. Look for materials that effectively wick away sweat or choose materials that not only manage sweat well but are also water resistant.
Practice backpacking - It is beneficial to get used to walking with a load on your back as you will need to carry items such as food, drinks, extra clothes and possibly more. If you use your own backpack, be sure to adjust all straps correctly to avoid unnecessary strain when carrying.
Drink water and replenish energy frequently during the hike - It's important to keep your energy levels up while exercising. Aim to eat small, frequent meals and snacks on the go to maintain energy levels. Dried fruit, energy bars and nuts are great snacks to keep you going during your hike.
UCPA - Freely translated to English as "National Federation for Sports and Outdoor Centers" - has a history of over 50 years. It is, in short, a non-profit, all-French organization supported by, among others, the French state. The purpose is to give ordinary people the opportunity to learn and develop in one or more sports together, in pleasant and unpretentious forms. The organization has about 80 centers in France and the West Indies, 28 of them are located at well-known winter sports resorts in the French Alps.
© 2025 UCPA Travel AB.
Walking is often described as the simplest sporting activity, which is perhaps why it is so easy to adopt. It is scientifically proven that walking is good for both body and mind, especially in nature. Walking takes place at different levels, with the main difference between them being the type of surface you walk on and how many meters of altitude you walk. Our hiking trips take place in groups of 10-15 hikers per instructor.
A typical day
The day starts with you and the instructor going through the day's route. Then you either go on a day trip where packed lunches are brought from the center, or you do a shorter hike and return to the center for lunch.
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Instructor
UCPA trekking trips are carried out with the help of a professional and trained instructor or guide, who has very good local knowledge of the place you are in.
Walking safely
As with any activity, safety is paramount. The instructors always make sure to adapt the route to the conditions and circumstances at the time.
Meet new friends
You are never alone when you travel with UCPA. A UCPA trip is a social experience where you meet new people from all over the world.
Hiking at your own pace
You walk in a group with other like-minded people, which creates a good atmosphere.
Everything is included!
Accommodation, full board, equipment and instructor are included on all UCPA trips.
Equipment
All technical equipment is included: backpack, hiking boots and sleeping bag for inter-city treks.