Date : From Saturday, January 10 to Thursday, January 22, 2026
A Unique Sporting Event in Europe
La Grande Odyssée 2026, considered the most demanding sled dog race on the continent, once again establishes itself as one of the must-attend events of the Alpine winter. Starting Saturday, January 10, the majestic landscapes of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes will resonate with the enthusiastic barks of over 600 canine athletes, led by sixty-five mushers from all over Europe and the world.
Starts and Stages: Emotion and Breathtaking Landscapes
This new edition will begin in Avoriaz, a totally pedestrian emblematic resort where snow-covered streets offer an almost unreal atmosphere. Between the festive village and the enveloping scents of mulled wine and melting cheese, young and old will be immersed in the magic of the mountains. The prologue, on Saturday evening, will turn the resort into a lively stage before an official start towards Montriond on Sunday morning.
- January 10 : Prologue in Avoriaz
- January 11 : Avoriaz → Montriond
- January 12 : La Chapelle d’Abondance
- January 13 : Savoie Grand Revard
- January 14 : La Toussuire → Le Corbier
- January 15 : Les Karellis
- January 16 : Aussois
- January 17 : Bessans → Bonneval-sur-Arc → Col du Mont Cenis
- January 18 : Val Cenis → Lac du Mont Cenis
- January 19 : Col de la Madeleine
- January 20 : Les 7 Laux
- January 21 : Col de Porte
- January 22 : Arrival in Villard-de-Lans
In total, nearly 400 kilometers of trails and 12,000 meters of elevation await participants, crossing frozen forests, enchanting lakes, and peaks with sparkling snow.
Village Life and Activities for Everyone
La Grande Odyssée is not just a sporting competition. It is a true popular celebration where each stage takes the form of a live show. Singing, official presentation of the mushers, creative workshops, tastings of mountain specialties: the whole region celebrates the unbreakable bond between humans and dogs. Families will be able to meet the mascot Sitka, participate in regional olympiads, or marvel at the palpable complicity between mushers and dogs.
More than 60,000 spectators are expected this year in the twenty partner resorts and villages, creating a friendly and warm atmosphere under the Alpine winter sky.
Extraordinary Athletes: The Sled Dogs
The true beating heart of the event is these four-legged athletes. Their energy lights up the snowy trails, propelling the sleds with a mix of endurance, power, and contagious joy. Raised, trained, and cared for all year round by their mushers, they benefit from continuous veterinary attention during La Grande Odyssée. The partnership between man and animal, filled with respect, affection, and complicity, fascinates and inspires.
A Must-See Event for Adventure Lovers
Around the Alpine bends, every spectator can feel the thrill of the race amidst silent woods, hear the crunch of snow under paws, and share the excitement of a crowd gathered to live a winter dream. Unforgettable memories await all those who come to vibrate with the magic of La Grande Odyssée 2026, whether for sporting achievement, discovering Alpine culture, or the emotion of an exceptional human adventure.
Some Key Figures
- More than 65 mushers from many countries
- About 600 sled dogs carefully prepared
- Nearly 400 km of race and 12,000 meters of elevation
- 20 resorts and villages crossed
- More than 60,000 spectators expected
- Free access to activities, villages, and stage starts
For more information or to organize your visit: Official website of La Grande Odyssée
