The summer is just over and some people are already thinking about the future vacations, those that will be held in winter and will see the French massifs covered with their beautiful white coat. In the Briançonnais, near the Écrins National Park, there is an ideal place to enjoy the winter spots: the resort of Serre-Chevalier. This is where one of the largest ski areas in Europe is located, with 410 hectares. Serre-Chevalier offers a multitude of activities to enjoy the powder snow. There is something for everyone and every age. Do you want to ski, walk in the heart of exceptional natural landscapes, eat well and enjoy the charms of the resort's villages? Here is an overview of all there is to do in Serre-Chevalier.
Serre-Chevalier, an exceptional ski area
Generous sunshine, quality snow, 59 ski lifts and 81 runs, 80% of which are at an altitude of over 2,000 m, Serre-Chevalier welcomes families and groups of friends in optimal conditions. The resort is a delight for outdoor enthusiasts, with board sports at the top of the list. Alpine skiing, snowboarding, it is a pure happiness to slide in front of some of the highest peaks of the Alps. And what's more, there is something for everyone. Regular skiers and snowboarders can show off their skills on the red and black runs, while beginners can take advantage of dedicated areas to perfect their skills. Hikers also have something to satisfy their desires, with superb Nordic skiing in the heart of the larch forests.
Skiing vacations in Serre-Chevalier also include the SnowPark for freestyle enthusiasts and the possibility of practicing skiing the old-fashioned way, off-piste, but totally safe!
Don't hesitate to vary the pleasures by indulging in other fun or sensational activities such as speed-riding, a mixture of skiing and paragliding, snowmobiling, ice climbing, fatbike, mountain kart, giant zip line, winter mountaineering with a guide or even dog sledding.
Serre-Chevalier in winter, it is finally all these plus that make the difference. We take advantage of innovative picnic areas, for a lunch with a breathtaking view on the reliefs. For this, go to Villeneuve and the "Vallons" area at the arrival of the chairlift. At the end of the afternoon and to loosen up sore muscles, Les Grands Bains in Monêtier-les-Bains offers relaxation sessions with a view in the naturally warm waters of its indoor and outdoor pools. Not to mention the possibility of relaxing in the Roman-Irish area with saunas, hammams, whirlpools and relaxing benches.
Stroll between two ski sessions in Serre-Chevalier
Serre-Chevalier is a multitude of activities to practice on the snow, but you should not miss to go for a walk in the different villages of the domain to discover all that makes their charm. Hybrid shuttles make it easy to move from one place to another during your stay. Ski vacations are also an opportunity to admire the mountain habitat and churches of Saint-Chaffrey-Chantemerle, La Salle les Alpes-Villeneuve and Monêtier-les-Bains.
The highlight is a visit to Briançon, one of the main fortified towns in the region. The city offers a maze of paved streets with colorful facades and beautiful squares. The heritage is simply exceptional with the Vauban fortifications listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, the ramparts crowned with forts, the collegiate church of Notre-Dame with its sumptuous decorations and the Asfeld bridge over the Durance.
Before returning to the skis, we take the opportunity to sit down to eat and taste the best of the local specialties. The cabbage pie is a must in the area, and can be tasted in La Salle les Alpes-Villeneuve.