Les Trois Vallées Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Les Trois Vallées with this comprehensive travel guide, featuring cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, food and drink, accommodations, and transportation options.


Introduction to Les Trois Vallées

Les Trois Vallées is a world-famous ski resort located in Savoie, in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France. It is the largest ski resort in the world, with over 600 kilometers of interconnected ski runs and 180 ski lifts across three valleys: Courchevel, Méribel, and Val Thorens. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Les Trois Vallées offers a range of other outdoor activities, such as hiking, mountain biking, rafting, and paragliding. The region is also rich in culture, with numerous museums, historical landmarks, and local culinary specialties to discover.

List of Places to Visit in Les Trois Vallées

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Les Trois Vallées is steeped in history, with a number of museums and historical sites to explore. Here are some of the must-visit cultural attractions:

  • Musée des Allues: This museum is located in the village of Les Allues and showcases the history and culture of the region. Exhibits include traditional costumes, tools, and household items, as well as information on the development of skiing in Les Trois Vallées.
  • Musée de la Miniature: This museum in Méribel is home to an impressive collection of miniature objects, including dollhouses, toy soldiers, and model trains.
  • Saint-Martin-de-Belleville: This charming Savoyard village has preserved its historic character and architecture, including a 16th-century church and a tower from the 12th century.

Natural Attractions of Les Trois Vallées: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Les Trois Vallées is known for its stunning natural beauty and offers a wide range of outdoor activities for visitors. Here are some of the top natural attractions:

  • Lac de la Rosière: This picturesque lake is located in the Belleville Valley and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can go fishing, kayaking, or hiking around the lake.
  • Aiguille du Fruit: This peak offers breathtaking panoramic views of the entire Les Trois Vallées region. Visitors can hike or mountain bike to the top, or take a paragliding tour for an unforgettable aerial view of the valley.
  • Les Encombres: Located in Courchevel, this natural reserve is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including chamois, ibex, and marmots. Visitors can take guided hikes or mountain bike tours through the reserve.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Les Trois Vallées

Les Trois Vallées offers endless opportunities for hiking and mountain biking. Some of the top routes include:

  • Grand Tour de Tarentaise: This circuit trail takes hikers and bikers through the heart of the Tarentaise Valley, passing through several picturesque villages along the way.
  • Col de la Loze: This mountain pass offers challenging terrain for experienced hikers and bikers but rewards with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Les 3 Vallées Bikepark: This network of mountain bike trails is one of the best in Europe, offering a range of difficulty levels for riders of all abilities.

Best Things to Do in Les Trois Vallées: Activities and Tours

In addition to skiing, hiking, and mountain biking, Les Trois Vallées offers a range of other activities and tours for visitors. Here are some of the top things to do:

  • Rafting and kayaking: The Doron de Bozel river offers thrilling whitewater rafting and kayaking opportunities for the adventurous traveler.
  • Paragliding: Take to the skies for a bird’s eye view of Les Trois Vallées. Tandem paragliding tours are available from several local providers.
  • Wine and cheese tasting: Sample the local culinary specialties at one of the many cheese shops or wine cellars in the region.

Week-Long Itinerary for Les Trois Vallées

If you have a week to explore Les Trois Vallées, here is a suggested itinerary:

  • Day 1-2: Courchevel. Ski or snowboard the world-class runs of La Saulire, explore the natural reserve of Les Encombres, and indulge in the après ski scene.
  • Day 3-4: Méribel. Hike or mountain bike the Grand Tour de Tarentaise, visit the Musée de la Miniature, and take a paragliding tour.
  • Day 5-6: Val Thorens. Ski or snowboard the highest slopes in Europe, go ice skating, and take a snowshoeing tour.
  • Day 7: Saint-Martin-de-Belleville. Explore this charming Savoyard village, visit the historic church, and sample the local culinary specialties.

Food and Drink Scene of Les Trois Vallées

Must-Try Dishes

Les Trois Vallées is known for its hearty Savoyard cuisine, which features a range of cheese, meat, and potato-based dishes. Here are some of the must-try dishes:

  • Tartiflette: This cheesy potato dish is a Savoyard specialty and is a must-try for any visitor to the region.
  • Raclette: This melted cheese dish is typically served with potatoes and charcuterie.
  • Diots: These traditional Savoyard sausages are made with pork, wine, and herbs and are usually served with mashed potatoes.

Local Beverages

The region is also known for its wine and liqueurs. Here are some of the local drinks to try:

  • Vin de Savoie: This white wine is made from local grapes and is crisp and refreshing.
  • Génépi: This yellow-green liqueur is made from wild alpine plants and is a popular after-dinner drink.
  • Chartreuse: This herbal liqueur is made by Carthusian monks and comes in green and yellow varieties.

Where to Stay in Les Trois Vallées: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Les Trois Vallées has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some of the top choices:

  • Hotel Le Coucou: This five-star hotel in Méribel offers luxurious rooms and suites, as well as a spa and restaurant.
  • Hotel Pashmina Le Refuge: This ski-in/ski-out hotel in Val Thorens offers cozy rooms and suites, as well as a spa and fine dining restaurant.
  • Les Chalets de la Tania: These self-catered chalets in Courchevel are perfect for families or groups and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

What to Buy in Les Trois Vallées: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Les Trois Vallées has a range of local products and souvenirs to bring home as a reminder of your trip. Here are some of the top choices:

  • Cheese: Bring home a selection of the region’s famed cheeses, such as Beaufort or Reblochon.
  • Wine: Pick up a bottle of the local Vin de Savoie to enjoy at home.
  • Ski gear: Les Trois Vallées has a range of ski shops, where you can buy gear and clothing to remember your time on the slopes.

Local Culture and Customs of Les Trois Vallées

Les Trois Vallées has a rich cultural heritage, with strong ties to its rural past. Traditional dress, music, and cuisine are still highly valued in the region, and visitors should respect local customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Les Trois Vallées

The ski season in Les Trois Vallées typically runs from December through April, with the best snow conditions in January and February. However, the summer months also offer plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and rafting.

Do’s and Don’ts of Les Trois Vallées

Do:

  • Try the local cheese and wine.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Take advantage of the world-class skiing and outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Ski or snowboard off-piste without a guide.
  • Forget to tip in restaurants and bars.
  • Wear ski boots indoors.

Safety and Health

Safety in Les Trois Vallées

Les Trois Vallées is a safe destination, but visitors should take precautions to avoid accidents on the slopes. Always wear appropriate safety gear, such as helmets and goggles, and follow the rules and guidelines set by the ski resort.

Health in Les Trois Vallées

Visitors to Les Trois Vallées should be aware of the high altitude and take precautions to avoid altitude sickness. Symptoms can include headaches, nausea, and dizziness. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol and caffeine, and acclimate slowly to the altitude.

Getting to Les Trois Vallées: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Les Trois Vallées

The closest airports to Les Trois Vallées are:

  • Chambéry-Savoie Airport (CMF) - located 110 km from Les Trois Vallées.
  • Grenoble-Isère Airport (GNB) - located 130 km from Les Trois Vallées.
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) - located 160 km from Les Trois Vallées.

Bus Stations Near Les Trois Vallées

Regular bus services run from the major cities in the area to Les Trois Vallées, including:

  • Chambéry bus station
  • Grenoble bus station
  • Albertville bus station

Other Options

If you prefer to drive, Les Trois Vallées is easily accessible via major highways. Alternatively, you can book a private transfer from the airport or train station.

How to Get Around in Les Trois Vallées

Les Trois Vallées has a comprehensive ski lift system, with over 180 lifts and 600 kilometers of ski runs. There are also regular bus services connecting the main villages. Taxis and private transfers are also available.

Where to Go Next from Les Trois Vallées: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are many nearby destinations and excursions to explore from Les Trois Vallées. Here are some ideas:

  • Annecy: This charming lakeside town is located 100 km from Les Trois Vallées and is known for its canals, museums, and mountain views.
  • Chamonix: This world-famous ski resort is located 150 km from Les Trois Vallées and offers stunning views of Mont Blanc.
  • Lyon: This historic city is located 190 km from Les Trois Vallées and is known for its cuisine, museums, and Roman ruins.

Conclusion

Les Trois Vallées is a world-class ski resort and outdoor adventure destination, with a rich cultural heritage and local culinary specialties to explore. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a first-time visitor, there’s something for everyone in this stunning alpine region of France.



    Courchevel
    Meribel
    Val Thorens