End of summer rafting in Chamonix
For our end of summer party at Chamonix All Year, the team donned wetsuits and hard hats for a fast paddle down the Arve. There was also an impromptu dip in the freezing rapids…
Photos by Vanessa Arpin Photography
A different kind of summer send-off
Just because it was September does not mean it was time to pack away the swimsuit.
After a busy and hot summer, the Chamonix All Year team decided to let off some steam on the river. It turned out to be the perfect way to mark the end of the season. A rubber boat, glacier-cold water and a bit of friendly competition did the job.
Evolution 2 organised the outing, with Rico and Manu guiding our two boats down the Arve.
On the river
The water levels were high due to melting snow, so the river was flowing fast. At times, it got a little chaotic. We nearly lost a couple of team members along the way. Luckily, a quick reaction from our Housekeeping Manager and Accountant brought them back in.
We paddled under the Pont de la Rose and continued towards Les Houches. There, we stopped briefly by a fresh water spring. After all, paddling non-stop is thirsty work.
Along the way, our photographer Vanessa Arpin raced ahead. She reached each bridge before us to capture the action. At one point, our Maintenance Team even tried to turn the train tracks into a jungle gym over the river.
### Behind the lens
Vanessa is local to Chamonix and works year-round as a photographer. You can explore more of her work here: Vanessa Arpin.
She managed to capture some great action shots. Our guides even showed us how to “flick” our paddles to splash the other boat. We may have caught a few unsuspecting tourists along the way. Still, the competition was taken seriously, and Lia seemed quite pleased with the result.
A team experience
Overall, it was a great team bonding experience. It was active, fun and just unpredictable enough to keep things interesting.
If you are looking for something similar, Evolution 2 offers a wide range of activities throughout the year. It is an easy way to add something different to your stay, whether in summer or winter.
Looking ahead
The team will now use the interseason to prepare for the winter ahead. In the meantime, we are still here.
Follow us on social media for updates, and if you are planning a winter or next year’s summer stay, take a look at our chalets & apartments in Chamonix
