Les Menuires: All destinations, advice & information for your holidays!
The well-known winter sports resort Les Menuires in the French Alps near Albertville stretches from 1,450 to 2,850 meters. The ski area has access to the largest ski area in the world: Les 3 Vallées with 600 kilometers of slopes, many over 1,800 meters high. Les Menuires attracts ski enthusiasts of all ages and abilities.
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Les Menuires - Must-see attractions
Les Menuires ski resort
Les Menuires is known as a family-friendly winter sports resort and attracts a corresponding audience. The core is the La Croisette district with its restaurants and shops. Here are also the ski lifts that transport winter sports enthusiasts to the slopes. From the slopes, there is a magnificent view of Mont Blanc, the Ecrins, and the Aiguilles d’Arves. Near Les Menuires is the Lac de Lou, which invites hiking in the summer months.
Saint-Martin-de-Belleville
The winter sports season in Saint Martin de Belleville and the surrounding vast ski area Les 3 Vallées traditionally begins at the start of December and lasts until Easter. Then, you can expect 160 km of well-prepared slopes for beginners, intermediates, and professionals. Even in the height of summer, some of the gondolas are in operation, taking you from the valley up to the Alpine peaks as high as 2,850 m. From there, you can not only enjoy the breathtaking mountain panorama but also embark on extensive hikes.
Lake of the Wolf
Around 1,700 meters of elevation must be overcome to reach Lac du Lou. The ascent takes about an hour and is suitable for beginners. The lake, nestled in a small valley, shines crystal blue with blooming landscapes all around. Hikers can take a break at the shelter by the lake, which has toilets. Those who wish can walk around the lake, which takes about an hour. The ringing of cowbells accompanies you at the most beautiful mountain lake of the Vallée des Belleville.
Speed Mountain
The Speed Mountain usually opens before Christmas and invites you to sled on rails until Easter. The track is 1 km long and can be ridden at various speeds. Thrill and adrenaline are guaranteed. Around the amusement park, you will find many other attractions in the municipality of Les Belleville and the surrounding mountains. The ski slopes invite you to ski and snowboard, and cross-country skiers can look forward to well-prepared trails.
Val Thorens ski resort
The local mountain of Val Thorens is the Cime de Caron with four ski slopes. For seven years, the winter sports resort in the French Alps has been awarded the title of the world's best ski resort. The season begins with the Boarderweek and the SkiCross World Cup. Since Val Thorens is located in the middle of the 3 Vallées ski area, you can easily leave the place on skis and unbuckle the boards right in front of your accommodation upon return. Even off the slopes, a varied program awaits you.
Méribel ski resort
Every year from December to April, the ski resort Méribel transforms into a lively winter wonderland. The historic location is situated in the world's largest ski area, Les Trois Vallées. This connects three valleys and impresses with over 600 kilometers of snow-secure slopes. From the Méribel-Mottaret ski station at an altitude of 1,750 meters, you have the perfect starting point for the attractions of the entire ski area. The region is particularly characterized by its family-friendly design. Here, in addition to colorful children's areas, there is a high number of easy beginner slopes.
Les Menuires - Secret spots
Museum of Saint-Martin-de-Belleville
Amidst the French Alps lies the charming Musée de Saint-Martin-de-Belleville in Les Menuires. This museum is a true gem that preserves the rich history and culture of the region. Did you know that it is housed in a former 17th-century farmhouse? A visit here is like a journey back in time.
Permaculture garden
Les Menuires is famous for its permaculture garden. This garden is a paradise for nature lovers and a living example of sustainable agriculture. Interestingly, this garden is managed exclusively with natural methods, without the use of chemicals. A visit is a must for anyone who appreciates the beauty of nature.
Valley of the Rubbles
In the French region of Les Menuires lies the hidden paradise Vallée des Encombres. This untouched valley is a dream for hikers and nature lovers. Interestingly, it is also home to a rare animal species, the alpine snow grouse, which has perfectly adapted to the high alpine conditions. A visit is definitely worthwhile.
Lake of Bruyères
The Lac de Bruyères is a true paradise for nature lovers. This picturesque mountain lake, surrounded by breathtaking alpine landscapes, is a perfect place for peace and relaxation. Interestingly, the lake never freezes in winter, thanks to its unique geothermal properties that ensure a constant water temperature.
Les Menuires - In 3 days
Day 1
Start your first day in Les Menuires with a hearty breakfast in one of the cozy cafes in the town center. Then head straight to the slopes! Les Menuires is part of the vast Trois Vallées ski area, known for its excellently groomed slopes and modern lift facilities. Spend the morning exploring the various runs and enjoying the breathtaking mountain scenery. After an active morning, it's time for a lunch break. Visit one of the charming mountain huts and try local specialties like Tartiflette or Raclette. Refreshed, continue in the afternoon with a guided snowshoe hike, where you can discover the untouched nature away from the slopes. To end the day, relax in one of the town's wellness centers. Treat yourself to a massage or enjoy the sauna and steam bath. In the evening, a traditional Savoyard dinner awaits you, where you can get to know the culinary delights of the region.
Day 2
Today, an exciting morning is on the agenda: Try your hand at snowboarding or improve your technique in a ski course. The local ski schools offer courses for all levels, so both beginners and advanced skiers will get their money's worth. After an intense morning on the slopes, it's time for a well-deserved lunch break. Enjoy a hearty lunch in one of the mountain huts and indulge in the regional cuisine. In the afternoon, you can take a dog sled ride and experience the snowy landscape from a whole new perspective. End the day with a visit to the local swimming pool, which also features a heated outdoor pool. In the evening, a cozy dinner with regional specialties awaits you, where you can reflect on the day.
Day 3
On the third morning, a snowshoe hike is on the program. Explore the untouched nature and enjoy the tranquility of the snow-covered landscape away from the slopes. The guided tours offer interesting insights into the local flora and fauna. After the hike, you can warm up in a cozy mountain hut with a hot drink and enjoy the breathtaking view. In the afternoon, a special highlight awaits you: a cable car ride to the summit of La Masse. From there, you have a spectacular panoramic view of the Alps and can fully admire the beauty of the region. To conclude your stay in Les Menuires, treat yourself to a relaxing spa experience. Indulge in a massage or relax in the sauna. In the evening, enjoy the delicious regional specialties one last time and reflect on the experiences of the past few days.
Les Menuires - Climate
Continental climate with harsh winters and cool summers awaits travelers in Les Menuires. Hikers should choose the summer months of July and August for their vacation, when temperatures often rise to 18°C. Rain falls more or less throughout the year. The driest month is October, while it rains heavily in May. From December to March, temperatures are in the single-digit negatives. The ski season lasts from December to April. Where there is no natural snow – occasionally, especially in the valley – snowmaking systems ensure sufficient snow depth. Winter sports enthusiasts can look forward to 160 kilometers of slopes and around 40 lifts in Les Menuires.