Les Menuires is a charming ski resort located at an altitude of 1,850 m in Savoie. It offers access to the world's largest ski area, Les 3 Vallées, which it shares with six other resorts. Snow conditions are excellent, and holidaymakers can also count on a generous amount of sunshine to enjoy their favorite winter activities. Skiing and snowboarding are of course very popular in Les Menuires, but the resort in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region offers many other ways to have a good time. Let's take a look at the 11 best winter activities in Les Menuires.
1. Downhill skiing and snowboarding, two essential activities in Les Menuires
Les Menuires, one of the world's top mountain vacation destinations, is a winter paradise for skiers and snowboarders. Together with Saint-Martin-de-Belleville, the two resorts boast 81 runs and 31 lifts. And there's something for every level! 85% of the ski area is at altitudes of over 1800 m, offering ideal snow conditions for alpine skiing and snowboarding. Sports enthusiasts can practice on their own or ask ski school instructors for lessons, who are always happy to pass on their passion.
Good to know: Take advantage of our partner's rates and book the best ski equipment for adults in Les Menuires right now by clicking here.For children's skiing,click here.
The activity to book for seasoned skiers: Enjoy the thrill of skiing for the first time by booking here your day of off-piste skiing from Les Menuires in Les Trois Vallées. A mountain guide will take the lifts with you to lead you to wild snowy slopes, away from the crowds of skiers on the slopes.
2. Tobogganing on piste and rails
Tobogganing is a not-to-be-missed activity in Les Menuires, a charming mountain village in the Alps. The Roc'n'Bob toboggan run is 4 km long, with a 450 m vertical drop and 22 bends. Families can even embark on a night descent, with each participant equipped with a headlamp. For a change of pace, there' s also the option of tobogganing on rails in winter. A 1 km descent with twists and turns that offer their share of sensations.
3. Electric scooters on snow
The electric scooter is another way to have a good time on vacation in Les Menuires, a great destination for a January vacation when the snow is generous. These scooters have tires designed for use on powder snow. It's an eco-friendly way to discover the magnificent scenery surrounding the resort, along the superb trails of the Plan d'Eau des Menuires. The activity is available for children aged 12 and over. Outings are possible during the day or at night. Holidaymakers can also enjoy downhill scootering on the 4 km toboggan run, during dedicated sessions.
4. What to do in winter in Les Menuires Ski touring
Les Menuires offers a number of itineraries for ski touring, which involves alternating ascents and descents on moderate slopes. Whether you choose the Brelin, Pas de Cherferie or Tougnète itineraries, the idea is always the same: to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in nature. The trails are signposted and completely safe. Guided outings are also available, with a professional on hand to lead hikers to the most beautiful spots.
Activities to book: Do you have a good level of skiing and love hiking? Then ski touring in Les Menuires in the Three Valleys is the activity for you! Led by a mountain guide , you'll ski up snow-covered slopes and then ski down off-piste in magnificent surroundings! Are you tempted? Click here to book your day of ski touring.
Related article: Discover the 11 best hikes in Savoie!
5. A snowshoe walk with dinner at altitude
This activity, offered at dusk, invites you to step into the shoes of a trapper. Illuminated by headlamp and equipped with snowshoes, you'll be guided by an instructor through the magnificent snow-covered landscape of Les Menuires, one of the most beautiful places in Savoie. The tour ends with dinner in a mountain farm or refuge, featuring local specialities and always in good spirits. One thing's for sure: participants return home with beautiful images and sweet memories.
Petit Futé tip: Take advantage of our partner's rates and book the best snowshoeing equipment in Les Menuires right now by clicking here.
Activity to book: Come and discover the Vallée des Belleville on a magnificent snowshoeing excursion in Les Menuires , book here! Supervised by a passionate mountain guide who knows the area inside out, you'll enjoy a snowshoe hike tailored to your level and expectations.
6.Ski joëring, a fun winter activity in Les Menuires
Ski joëring comes to us from Scandinavia. It involves skiing while being pulled by a horse or pony. An original activity that can be enjoyed by adults and children alike in the family-friendly ski resort of Les Menuires. The advantage is that there's no effort involved, as the animal takes care of everything during the ride. Participants always have a great time, not only because it's fun, but also because they enjoy moments of complicity with the animals.
7. A snowmobile outing
Once the ski slopes have closed, holidaymakers can take part in a supervised snowmobile outing. This activity requires a minimum age of 18 and a "B" driving license. Departing from La Croisette in Les Menuires, head for the "pied de la Masse" to learn how to use the machine, then on to "Tougnette", which offers views of Mont-Blanc and Méribel-Mottaret. The tour also includes a speed session for a thrilling experience.
8. A relaxing day at the spa
Winter sports are good for the body. But you also need a few moments of relaxation to ease the strain on your muscles. Les Menuires has several centers dedicated to well-being. From one to the next, you can enjoy a range of massages, relax in heated pools, saunas, hammams or Jacuzzis. For example, you can go to Break des Menuires, where the indoor pool offers beautiful views of the mountains.
9. What to do in Les Menuires in winter? Fatbikes
Undoubtedly one of the best winter activities in Les Menuires. Fatbikes are electrically-assisted mountain bikes with wide tires. They allow you to pedal on snow effortlessly and without slipping. Riding on snow offers unique sensations. Mountain bikers love it. But it's really the whole family who can enjoy a fatbike session in winter. Fatbikes are available for hire in Les Menuires.
10. Igloo building
Families will love taking part in the construction of an igloo, the snow dwelling traditionally associated with the Inuit. Young and old alike are invited to learn how to build these ice shelters without the risk of them falling. It requires patience and skill, but it's a fun activity to do with the whole family, and one that offers great satisfaction. Ready to take up the challenge in Les Menuires?
Planning a trip to the mountains with your children? Take a moment to read our top family ski resorts where you can ski with children
11. Paragliding on skis
What can you do in Les Menuires in winter to take in the view? Paragliding, of course! Take-off is from the summit of either La Masse or Mont de la Chambre. Landing is at "les Fontanettes" near the Masse gondola. The free flight, which is performed in tandem with a professional, offers breathtaking views of Les Menuires, its nature and its slopes. Please note that participants must have at least flocon level.
What to do in Les Menuires if you don't ski?
Non-skiers still have plenty of opportunities to spend time at Les Menuires. There's no shortage of options. They can take a stroll along the trails to admire the scenery, spend time at the spa or take a ride on a dog sled, snowmobile or groomer. There's also the option of an outdoor escape game, tobogganing on tracks or rails, and exploring a mountain pasture by torchlight.
And to make sure you don't miss out on any of the region's highlights, here's our selection of the 19 must-sees in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region.
