La Plagne ski holidays

La Plagne ski holidays

ABTA & ATOL Protection
ABTA & ATOL Protection

Top features of this resort

Snow-sure resortSnow-sure resort
Off-slope activitiesOff-slope activities
Stunning viewsStunning views
Snow-sure resortSnow-sure resort
Off-slope activitiesOff-slope activities
Stunning viewsStunning views

Top features of this resort

Snow-sure resortSnow-sure resort
Off-slope activitiesOff-slope activities
Stunning viewsStunning views
Snow-sure resortSnow-sure resort
Off-slope activitiesOff-slope activities
Stunning viewsStunning views

La Plagne ski resort

4.5/5
WONDERFUL (5,368 REVIEWS)
5,368 REVIEWS

Spread across a high alpine plateau in the French Alps, La Plagne sits inside one of the world's largest ski areas - Paradiski - and is reliably snow-sure. Its terrain spans from 1,250m up to 3,250m at the Bellecôte glacier, with dependable cover from mid-December through April.

The resort offers 225km of its own pistes, and links to Les Arcs via the Vanoise Express cable car to form the Paradiski area - 425km of interconnected skiing. Over half the runs are graded blue or green, making it particularly welcoming for beginners and intermediates, though there's plenty of steeper terrain and off-piste for those who want it.

La Plagne's 11 villages are connected by lifts and pistes, so you're never far from a chairlift, a sunny terrace, or your next run. Off the slopes, options range from the Olympic bobsleigh track to swimming pools and ice caves. The atmosphere is relaxed and unpretentious - a genuine all-rounder for families, couples, and groups alike.

Check out La Plagne ski deals to start planning your trip.

La Plagne resort facts
Ski areaParadiski
Total slopes181 km
Easy slopes18 runs
Intermediate slopes129 runs
Difficult slopes77 runs
Expert slopes34 runs
Number of lifts141
Snow range1,250 m - 3,250 m
Resort height1,250 m - 2,050 m
Snow parks4
Rating by ski level
Beginners
8/10
Intermediates
10/10
Experts
6/10
Snowboarders
8/10
Rating by group type
Friends
8/10
Families
10/10
Couples
6/10
Transfer times to La Plagne
Chambéry airport1 hr 30 min
Grenoble airport2 hr 30 min
Lyon airport2 hr 30 min
Geneva airport3 hr

La Plagne ski resort

4.5/5
WONDERFUL (5,368 REVIEWS)
5,368 REVIEWS

Spread across a high alpine plateau in the French Alps, La Plagne sits inside one of the world's largest ski areas - Paradiski - and is reliably snow-sure. Its terrain spans from 1,250m up to 3,250m at the Bellecôte glacier, with dependable cover from mid-December through April.

The resort offers 225km of its own pistes, and links to Les Arcs via the Vanoise Express cable car to form the Paradiski area - 425km of interconnected skiing. Over half the runs are graded blue or green, making it particularly welcoming for beginners and intermediates, though there's plenty of steeper terrain and off-piste for those who want it.

La Plagne's 11 villages are connected by lifts and pistes, so you're never far from a chairlift, a sunny terrace, or your next run. Off the slopes, options range from the Olympic bobsleigh track to swimming pools and ice caves. The atmosphere is relaxed and unpretentious - a genuine all-rounder for families, couples, and groups alike.

Check out La Plagne ski deals to start planning your trip.

La Plagne resort facts
Ski areaParadiski
Total slopes181 km
Easy slopes18 runs
Intermediate slopes129 runs
Difficult slopes77 runs
Expert slopes34 runs
Number of lifts141
Snow range1,250 m - 3,250 m
Resort height1,250 m - 2,050 m
Snow parks4
Rating by ski level
Beginners
8/10
Intermediates
10/10
Experts
6/10
Snowboarders
8/10
Rating by group type
Friends
8/10
Families
10/10
Couples
6/10
Transfer times to La Plagne
Chambéry airport1 hr 30 min
Lyon airport2 hr 30 min
Grenoble airport2 hr 30 min
Geneva airport3 hr

La Plagne skiing & snowboarding

Skiing La Plagne feels large-scale without being overwhelming. Wide, well-groomed pistes flow between villages, the lift system moves you around efficiently, and tree-lined lower slopes offer shelter when the weather closes in. There's gentle terrain for beginners finding their feet, confidence-building runs to keep intermediates happy all week, and steep, exposed faces for experts who know where to look.

Skiing for beginners in La Plagne

La Plagne is one of the friendliest resorts in the Alps for first-timers. Wide, forgiving runs let you learn without pressure, and each village has its own nursery slopes - so you can find your feet close to your accommodation before venturing further.

Progression here feels natural. Green runs connect the villages, giving you purpose beyond just practising turns. The beginner areas around Plagne Centre and Belle Plagne are ideal for building confidence, and when you're ready, long blue runs through the trees let you cover real distance without surprises.

WeSki insider tip: The Plagne Bellecôte beginner area tends to be quieter than Plagne Centre - worth knowing if you want space to practise without dodging traffic.

Intermediate skiing in La Plagne

Intermediate skiers and snowboarders can really thrive at La Plagne. Beautifully groomed blues and reds sweep across the mountain in every direction - you can ski all week without repeating yourself, on terrain that's challenging enough to feel rewarding and forgiving enough to enjoy.

The long descents down through the trees to Montchavin or Champagny are some of the most satisfying intermediate runs in the Alps. Confident intermediates can push onto steeper reds around Aime 2000, and the runs from Roche de Mio back to the villages are consistent highlights.

WeSki insider tip: The Biolley sector above Montchavin offers quieter pistes and excellent snow preservation on north-facing slopes.

Advanced and expert skiing in La Plagne

La Plagne isn't primarily an expert's mountain, but there's more challenging terrain than the family-friendly reputation suggests. The black runs from Bellecôte are legitimately steep, and the glacier's north face serves up excellent off-piste when conditions allow. The itinéraires - marked but unpatrolled routes down to Champagny and through the Emile Allais sectors - reward good snow judgement and confident technique.

The Vanoise Express puts Les Arcs' Aiguille Rouge within reach for a day of serious descents. Local guides know the hidden lines that stay untracked while everyone else sticks to the marked runs.

WeSki insider tip: The off-piste between Bellecôte and Roche de Mio holds snow well and rarely gets tracked out - an open secret among locals, but often overlooked by visitors heading straight for the glacier.

Snowboarding in La Plagne

La Plagne's wide, mellow terrain suits snowboarders who prefer flowing runs to tight mogul fields. The piste layout minimises flat spots - always a relief when you're strapped in. Freeriders will find natural hits and rollers across the mountain, particularly in the sectors above Champagny where the terrain has more natural shape.

Off-piste skiing

La Plagne's off-piste is underrated. Guided tours access couloirs and bowls that most visitors never see, with reliable snow and accessible freeride terrain. The marked itinéraires offer a taste of off-piste without full commitment, while north-facing slopes above Champagny hold powder longer than most. There's solid touring terrain too, for those with the equipment and experience.

La Plagne snow school and lessons

ESF has branches in most villages, with English-speaking instructors readily available for group or private lessons. Independent schools offer alternatives if you prefer smaller class sizes or more specialised instruction. For children, the Piou-Piou clubs provide a gentle introduction from age three.

Through WeSki, you can add ski or snowboard lessons to your package and have everything arranged before you arrive. Check out La Plagne ski deals to get started.

La Plagne snow parks

La Plagne's terrain parks aren't the most extensive, but they're well maintained and suit progressing freestylers. The main park at Belle Plagne features jumps, rails, and boxes across varying ability levels, with smaller zones around the resort for first tricks. A boardercross course adds variety for those who prefer racing to rails.

La Plagne piste map

La Plagne piste map
  1. La Plagne family ski holiday
  2. Things to do in La Plagne
  3. Planning your trip in La Plagne
  4. How to get to La Plagne
  5. La Plagne FAQs

La Plagne family ski holiday

La Plagne is one of the Alps' best resorts for families - and it's not by accident. The purpose-built villages were designed with children in mind: ski-in/ski-out access is common, beginner areas sit close to the main lifts, and the wide, forgiving terrain means kids can progress without feeling overwhelmed. Facilities here are integrated, not an afterthought.

Nurseries in most villages take children from six months, and ESF's Piou-Piou programme introduces skiing from age three in dedicated, enclosed areas - it has an excellent reputation for a reason. On and off the mountain, casual restaurants welcome families without fuss.

Belle Plagne and Plagne Centre offer the most comprehensive setup for families, but quieter villages like Montalbert and Les Coches suit those travelling with younger children who'd prefer a more relaxed pace.

Things to do in La Plagne

La Plagne's 11 villages mean there's always something nearby - whether you're chasing adrenaline, warming up après-ski, or keeping non-skiers entertained. The Olympic heritage adds some options you won't find elsewhere.

Snow activities

La Plagne has one genuine headline act: the Olympic bobsleigh run. But beyond the bragging rights, there's plenty more to try when you want a break from the pistes.

  • Olympic bobsleigh experience: Hurtle down the 1992 Olympic track at up to 120km/h with a professional pilot.
  • Ice cave visit: Explore carved tunnels and glowing chambers deep within the glacier.
  • Ice climbing: Guided ascents on frozen waterfalls around the resort for adventurous climbers.
  • Snowshoeing: Marked trails through peaceful forests and across the high plateau.
  • Dog sledding: Husky-pulled rides through snowy landscapes led by experienced mushers.
  • Ice skating: Outdoor rinks in several villages with a magical alpine atmosphere.
  • Mountain walks: Cleared winter paths between villages ideal for non-skiers.
  • Paragliding: Tandem flights over the mountains with breathtaking panoramic views.
  • Night sledging: Illuminated runs after dark on the dedicated luge piste.
  • Cross-country skiing: Well-groomed Nordic trails winding through scenic alpine terrain.

Non-snow activities

Rest days don't have to mean cabin fever. La Plagne has enough pools, spas, and diversions to keep you busy without venturing onto the slopes.

  • Deep Nature Spa (Belle Plagne): Pools, saunas, and relaxing treatments with stunning mountain views.
  • Aqua Centre (Plagne Centre): Indoor swimming pools and modern wellness facilities for all ages.
  • Cinema: Films shown in at Plagne Centre throughout the season.
  • Indoor climbing: Indoor climbing wall at Belle Plagne for all ability levels.
  • Bowling and arcade: Bowling lanes and arcade games in several village centres.
  • Ice skating: Ice rink at Plagne Centre offering regular public skating sessions.
  • Fitness centres: Well-equipped gyms with fitness equipment and group classes.
  • Village walks: Cleared winter paths between centres for easy scenic strolls.
  • Shopping: Boutiques and ski gear shops spread across the villages.

La Plagne restaurants

La Plagne's dining scene is unpretentious and varied - hearty Savoyard classics dominate, but there's enough range to eat differently every night. Mountain restaurants earn their keep on sunny days, when a long lunch on a south-facing terrace is half the point. In the villages, options run from quick pizzas to proper sit-down meals, with most places geared toward families and groups.

  • La Face: Creative mountain cuisine with an excellent, carefully curated wine selection.
  • Le Matafan: Traditional Savoyard specialities including proper tartiflette and classic fondue.
  • Le Forperet: Popular on-mountain restaurant renowned for its excellent tartiflette.
  • Le Refuge: Cosy mountain restaurant above Plagne Centre with warm alpine charm.
  • La Ferme: Rustic farmhouse setting serving hearty, authentic local dishes.
  • Chez Marie: Charming mountain restaurant especially known for homemade desserts.
  • La Bergerie: Classic French fare served in a cosy, traditional alpine setting.
  • L'Alambic: Relaxed pizza and pasta spot with friendly, welcoming service.
  • Le Chalet des Colosses: Popular lunch stop with sunny terrace and sweeping mountain views.
  • Au Bon Vieux Temp: Upmarket dining in a traditional chalet with refined regional cuisine.

WeSki insider tip: For mountain lunches, book Le Chalet des Colosses for noon rather than 1pm - the terrace fills up fast on sunny days and early arrival means guaranteed seats in the sun.

La Plagne après-ski

La Plagne's après-ski is friendly rather than legendary, which completely suits the resort's character. Each village has a bar or two that fills up as the lifts close, and the atmosphere is sociable rather than messy. Think cold beers, live music, and sun-warmed terraces.

Belle Plagne and Plagne Centre have the liveliest scenes, with a handful of bars and clubs staying open late for those who want to keep going past dinner. The vibe is relaxed and sociable rather than party-focused - so, it's not Val Thorens, but if your priority is skiing, not clubbing, the balance here makes sense.

  • Scotty's Bar: British-run pub with live music, sports screens, and lively après atmosphere.
  • Saloon Bar: Popular après spot with sunny terrace seating and upbeat vibes.
  • Le Cheyenne: Friendly bar with live music, dancing, and a sociable crowd.
  • Mine Bar: Themed bar set in a converted mine shaft with a unique underground feel.
  • Igloo Bar: Actual igloo serving drinks on the snow for a memorable après experience.
  • La Folie Douce La Plagne: Iconic on-mountain après with DJs, live performers, and dancing tables.
  • Spitting Feathers: Lively British pub known for friendly crowds and après drinks.
  • Bar La Luge: Relaxed slope-side bar ideal for early après and sunset drinks.
  • Le Cube Club: La Plagne's main nightclub for late nights and DJ-led parties.

La Plagne map

La Plagne map

Planning your trip to La Plagne

La Plagne accommodation

La Plagne's eleven villages each have their own character, so where you stay shapes your holiday. The high-altitude villages - Plagne Centre, Belle Plagne, Plagne Bellecôte, Plagne 1800, Aime 2000 - offer ski-in/ski-out access and put you right on the snow. The lower villages - Montchavin, Les Coches, Champagny, Montalbert - have more traditional alpine charm and often better value, with gondola or chairlift links to the main ski area.

Accommodation ranges from self-catered apartments to hotels and chalets. Belle Plagne and Plagne Centre have the most facilities, convenience (close to shops and restaurants), and liveliest après-ski. Montalbert and Champagny suit those seeking a quieter, more village-feel experience with Savoyard character.

WeSki insider tips:

  • Belle Plagne and Plagne Centre put you closest to the action for ski-in/ski-out convenience.
  • Montchavin, Montalbert, and Champagny offer authentic Savoyard atmosphere and traditional village charm.
  • Les Coches is great for families, combining convenience with a quieter, more relaxed feel.

La Plagne ski pass

La Plagne offers several lift pass options depending on how much terrain you want to access. The La Plagne pass covers the resort's own 225km of pistes, while the Paradiski pass adds Les Arcs and the connecting Vanoise Express for 425km of skiing (this makes sense for confident skiers wanting maximum variety and that impressive Aiguille Rouge descent).

Check for family and multi-day pass options when booking your La Plagne ski holiday through WeSki - passes can be included in your package for a seamless arrival.

Equipment hire

Every La Plagne village has ski hire shops, so you'll never be far from equipment. Pre-booking means you can skip the queues on arrival day and head straight to the slopes once your gear's fitted. Most shops offer everything from beginner packages to high-performance skis, and staff can advise on the right setup for your ability level.

WeSki partners with SkiSet shops across La Plagne, letting you add equipment to your package and collect on arrival at your chosen village. Browse La Plagne ski deals to build your perfect trip.

Getting around La Plagne

Free shuttles at La Plagne run approximately every 20 minutes and connect all 11 villages throughout the day and into the evening, making it easy to explore beyond your own base. The lift system also connects the high-altitude villages efficiently - during the day, you can often ski between them rather than using road transport and take the lifts back.

Buses run regularly during lift hours and continue after dark for dining and après-ski. Within the higher villages, most accommodation is within walking distance of the pistes, though some apartments sit a few hundred metres from the nearest lift. Taxis are available for late nights or if you need to get somewhere the bus doesn't reach, though during peak evening hours they can be in demand.

How to get to La Plagne

La Plagne sits in the Tarentaise Valley, reachable from several airports. Geneva (150km) is the closest major hub with regular budget flights from UK airports. Chambéry (115km) is nearer but has fewer flight options. Lyon (180km) and Grenoble (175km) are alternatives worth checking for competitive fares.

By train, the Eurostar and TGV combination gets you to Bourg-Saint-Maurice, where regular bus services run up to La Plagne. It may be a longer journey than flying, but scenic and surprisingly practical if you're travelling from London or the south-east.

WeSki offers car rentals from the airport as well as private and shared transfers to La Plagne. Add them to your La Plagne package for seamless door-to-door travel.

La Plagne FAQs

Is La Plagne good for beginners?

La Plagne is one of the best resorts in the Alps for beginners. Each village has its own gentle nursery slopes, the greens and blues are wide and well-groomed, and the terrain is forgiving. The resort's layout means you can progress from village slopes to longer runs naturally, and there are no intimidating bottlenecks or challenging return routes to worry about. It's also home to excellent ski schools with English-speaking instructors.

How does La Plagne compare to Les Arcs?

Both are excellent, but they suit different skiers. La Plagne is gentler overall, with wider pistes and a more family-oriented atmosphere. Les Arcs has steeper terrain, particularly around Aiguille Rouge, and tends to attract more advanced skiers. With a Paradiski pass, you can ski both in the same trip - they're connected by the Vanoise Express cable car. Many skiers spend the first half of their holiday in La Plagne building confidence, then head to Les Arcs for more challenging terrain.

Can you ski from La Plagne to Les Arcs?

Yes - the Vanoise Express double-decker cable car connects La Plagne to Les Arcs (via Peisey-Vallandry), creating the Paradiski area. With a Paradiski lift pass, you can ski between the resorts easily. Allow time for the return journey as the last cable car runs to a strict schedule.

Is the snow reliable in La Plagne?

Yes. La Plagne's north-facing orientation and high altitude (up to 3,250m at the glacier) mean snow coverage is typically excellent throughout the season. The resort has also invested heavily in snowmaking to cover lower slopes. The season usually runs from mid-December to late April, with the best natural snow conditions generally found from January onwards.

Which La Plagne village should I stay in?

It depends on your priorities. Belle Plagne and Plagne Centre offer the best ski-in/ski-out access and liveliest après-ski. Montchavin and Montalbert suit those seeking traditional village charm at lower prices. Les Coches is ideal for families wanting convenience without crowds. Champagny offers a quieter, more upmarket experience. Whichever you choose, free shuttle buses connect all villages and the ski lift system lets you explore the whole resort.

How busy does La Plagne get?

La Plagne is popular, particularly during French and UK school holidays, but its size means lift queues rarely become frustrating. The resort's 11 villages spread visitors across the mountain, and clever routing (heading to Les Coches or Champagny rather than busy Belle Plagne mid-morning) keeps waiting times short. The Paradiski pass adds even more terrain to absorb crowds.

Is La Plagne suitable for non-skiers?

Absolutely. Beyond the unique Olympic bobsleigh experience, La Plagne offers snowshoeing, ice skating, swimming pools, spas, and cleared walking paths between villages. The resort's family focus means there are activities for all ages, and non-skiing partners won't feel stranded. The villages have enough restaurants, shops, and facilities to fill a week without strapping on skis.

What's the best way to book a La Plagne ski holiday?

Through WeSki, you can combine flights, accommodation, transfers, lift passes, equipment hire, and lessons into a single customisable package. You'll see exactly what's included before you book, and everything's organised in one place. Check out La Plagne ski deals to start building your perfect trip.

Is La Plagne good for families?

La Plagne is one of the Alps' best family resorts. The gentle terrain suits learning, childcare takes children from six months, and the villages are safe and manageable. ESF children's programmes are excellent, family-friendly restaurants abound, and the atmosphere is welcoming and unpretentious. It's a natural choice for first family ski holidays.

What's the nightlife like in La Plagne?

La Plagne nightlife is relaxed and family-friendly. Each village has bars that pick up after skiing, but don't expect the party atmosphere of Val Thorens. It suits families and groups wanting sociable drinks rather than late nights. Plagne Centre and Belle Plagne have the most options, but the overall vibe is cosy rather than wild.

Explore other resorts in France

Val Thorens - Chamonix - Tignes - Avoriaz - Val d'Isère - Méribel - Les Arcs - Les Menuires - Courchevel - Flaine - La Clusaz - Serre Chevalier - Samoëns - La Rosière - Montgenèvre - Val Cenis - Megève - St Martin de Belleville - Isola 2000 - Risoul - Valmorel - Les Gets - Morzine - Les Deux Alpes - Alpe d'Huez - Vaujany - Sainte Foy Tarentaise - Saint Gervais les bains - Châtel - Les Houches - Les Sybelles - Les Carroz - Les Contamines-Montjoie - Les Orres - Les Saisies

Ready to build your next trip?

Click on the button below, choose your dates, departure airport and group size, and find the trip that fits you best!

Years of experience in making customers happy