Читать книгу Mountain Adventures in the Maurienne. Summer routes for a multi-activity holiday in the French Alps онлайн

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In this area, pride in traditional ways of life is very evident. Traditional dress is celebrated and hospitality centres on the fabulous local produce. There are many local shows and festivals celebrating all things agricultural and rural. Highlights include a wonderful community re-enactment of the Nativity in December at Bessans, the National Accordion Festival in Termignon in January, and a five-day husky dog sled race (le Grand Odyssée) throughout the valley in January. Any of these would add interest to a winter ski holiday. The summer festivals include a week-long astronomy festival, taking advantage of clear skies and the minimal light pollution to star gaze. The French national holiday on 15 August is cause to celebrate food and farming, with festivals and events throughout the valley. Sheep shearing and herding are demonstrated, along with dances and traditional dress parades. A growing mountain sports festival in August encourages novices and children to try a range of outdoor sports in collaboration with the local mountain guiding bureaus. The local tourist offices produce a free weekly newsletter outlining the upcoming events.