Les Menuires ski holidays

Les Menuires ski holidays

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Top features of this resort

Snow-sure resortSnow-sure resort
Off-piste skiingOff-piste skiing
Snow-sure resortSnow-sure resort
Off-piste skiingOff-piste skiing

Top features of this resort

Snow-sure resortSnow-sure resort
Off-piste skiingOff-piste skiing
Snow-sure resortSnow-sure resort
Off-piste skiingOff-piste skiing

Les Menuires ski resort

4.5/5
WONDERFUL (4,898 REVIEWS)
4,898 REVIEWS

If you want direct access to the biggest linked ski area on the planet without the price tag of its glitzier neighbours, Les Menuires makes a compelling case. Sitting at 1,850m in the heart of the Three Valleys, this purpose-built resort in the French Alps pairs serious skiing with a refreshingly unpretentious atmosphere. 160km of pistes climb to 2,850m within its own valley, and 600km of interconnected terrain stretches across to Courchevel, Méribel, and Val Thorens.

The scale is staggering, and the terrain suits everyone. Wide, well-groomed runs roll through the valley - brilliant for kids, beginners, and intermediates building confidence. But experts have plenty to chase: the Masse sector offers steep, north-facing terrain, the link to Val Thorens opens up glacial skiing, and the connections to Méribel and Courchevel are full of adventure - you could ski for a fortnight without covering the same ground twice.

Beyond the slopes, Les Menuires atmosphere is friendly, adventurous, and fun - it's more about enjoying the mountain than showing off. It offers attractive accommodation, excellent restaurants, strong family facilities and a wide assortment of activities. The resort runs from early December through April, and those high-altitude connections typically keep snow conditions reliable throughout the season.

Check out Les Menuires ski deals to start planning your trip.

Les Menuires resort facts
Ski areaThree Valleys
Total slopes258 km
Easy slopes55 runs
Intermediate slopes140 runs
Difficult slopes107 runs
Expert slopes35 runs
Number of lifts163
Snow range1,100 m - 3,230 m
Resort height1,800 m - 1,850 m
Snow parks4
Rating by ski level
Beginners
8/10
Intermediates
10/10
Experts
7/10
Snowboarders
8/10
Rating by group type
Friends
6/10
Families
10/10
Couples
8/10
Transfer times to Les Menuires
Chambéry airport2 hr
Grenoble airport2 hr 30 min
Lyon airport3 hr
Geneva airport3 hr

Les Menuires ski resort

4.5/5
WONDERFUL (4,898 REVIEWS)
4,898 REVIEWS

If you want direct access to the biggest linked ski area on the planet without the price tag of its glitzier neighbours, Les Menuires makes a compelling case. Sitting at 1,850m in the heart of the Three Valleys, this purpose-built resort in the French Alps pairs serious skiing with a refreshingly unpretentious atmosphere. 160km of pistes climb to 2,850m within its own valley, and 600km of interconnected terrain stretches across to Courchevel, Méribel, and Val Thorens.

The scale is staggering, and the terrain suits everyone. Wide, well-groomed runs roll through the valley - brilliant for kids, beginners, and intermediates building confidence. But experts have plenty to chase: the Masse sector offers steep, north-facing terrain, the link to Val Thorens opens up glacial skiing, and the connections to Méribel and Courchevel are full of adventure - you could ski for a fortnight without covering the same ground twice.

Beyond the slopes, Les Menuires atmosphere is friendly, adventurous, and fun - it's more about enjoying the mountain than showing off. It offers attractive accommodation, excellent restaurants, strong family facilities and a wide assortment of activities. The resort runs from early December through April, and those high-altitude connections typically keep snow conditions reliable throughout the season.

Check out Les Menuires ski deals to start planning your trip.

Les Menuires resort facts
Ski areaThree Valleys
Total slopes258 km
Easy slopes55 runs
Intermediate slopes140 runs
Difficult slopes107 runs
Expert slopes35 runs
Number of lifts163
Snow range1,100 m - 3,230 m
Resort height1,800 m - 1,850 m
Snow parks4
Rating by ski level
Beginners
8/10
Intermediates
10/10
Experts
7/10
Snowboarders
8/10
Rating by group type
Friends
6/10
Families
10/10
Couples
8/10
Transfer times to Les Menuires
Chambéry airport2 hr
Grenoble airport2 hr 30 min
Geneva airport3 hr
Lyon airport3 hr

Les Menuires skiing & snowboarding

Skiing in Les Menuires feels diverse and satisfying. Long, flowing runs sweep down from the ridgelines, north-facing slopes keep the snow in good shape, and you can ski for a week without repeating yourself. Whether you're building confidence in the beginner areas, cruising blues toward Saint Martin de Belleville, or pushing into the steeper Masse terrain - there's a rewarding experience for every ability.

Les Menuires modern lift system is built for efficiency, so you can make the most of your days on the slopes. Its grooming is consistently excellent, and the high altitude means you're rarely fighting poor snow conditions.

Skiing for beginners in Les Menuires

Les Menuires is one of the friendlier places to learn. The Bettex area at the top of the resort has gentle, quiet greens where you can practise without faster skiers adding pressure. Nursery slopes sit conveniently close for easy lunch breaks and early finishes.

Once you're ready to explore, long blues like the Menuires piste offer confidence-building cruising with valley views that remind you where you are. The progression from nursery slopes to proper mountain terrain happens naturally - you'll be skiing real runs, not just an isolated learner area, within days.

Intermediate skiing in Les Menuires

Les Menuires is an intermediate paradise. Local pistes offer beautifully groomed intermediate runs at scale, with the Three Valleys connection opening up seemingly endless exploration. Beauty lies in the variety - morning groomers, afternoon exploration, and the freedom to push yourself when you're ready.

The valley is laced with blue and red runs that let you clock serious kilometres - from the sweeping terrain beneath the Masse chairlift to the rolling pistes toward Méribel-Mottaret. Confident intermediates can tackle the reds dropping off Mont de la Chambre or venture into the Three Valleys for lunch in Courchevel. Don't miss the long red from the Pointe de la Masse - it's a proper leg-burner with views to match.

WeSki insider tip: The runs from Mont de la Chambre towards St Martin de Belleville offer some of the quietest intermediate terrain in the Three Valleys - scenic, well-groomed, and often overlooked by those rushing between the main resorts.

Advanced and expert skiing in Les Menuires

Les Menuires terrain rewards advanced and expert skiers and boarders. Especially for those willing to explore beyond the obvious, the three-valley system means you'll never run out of challenges.

The Masse sector is where you'll earn your turns. North-facing slopes hold snow well into spring, and the blacks off the Pointe de la Masse (2,804m) deliver real steeps with moguls building through the day. For off-piste, couloirs accessed from the Masse ridge offer serious descents - a guide is advisable.

Connection to The Three Valleys extends the playground for experienced visitors considerably. Link up to Val Thorens for glacier skiing on the Péclet, or make day trips to Courchevel's steep couloirs. Local guides know the off-piste routes that stay untracked while everyone else sticks to the marked runs.

Snowboarding in Les Menuires

Les Menuires' terrain works well for boarders - Masse in particular rides brilliantly in the right conditions, and the Three Valleys opens up extensive ground to explore. Wide pistes for carving, enough pitch to maintain speed, and natural features scattered across the area for creative lines. The lift system is mostly chairs and gondolas, so minimal drag lifts to catch you out.

The snowpark at Mont de la Chambre has jumps and rails for various abilities, and the BK Park above Les Menuires adds a boardercross course for racing mates. Both are well-maintained throughout the season.

Off-piste skiing

Off-piste here is among the most rewarding in Europe. The north-facing Masse sector holds powder long after a storm, with accessible couloirs dropping from the ridge. The link to Val Thorens opens up glacial terrain around the Glacier de Thorens. For anything serious, a local guide is essential - conditions change quickly at altitude.

Les Menuires snow school and lessons

The resort has a handful of ski schools available where you'll find comprehensive programmes for all ages and abilities. Schools here include ESF Les Menuires and smaller independent schools. English-speaking instructors are readily available, with group and private lessons running throughout the week. For children, the Piou Piou club provides structured learning in dedicated areas.

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

Les Menuires snow parks

The BK Park at Mont de la Chambre is the main freestyle zone, with lines designed for different skill levels - from beginner kickers to more technical features. It's well-maintained and sees regular shaping throughout the season. There's also a boardercross course for racing against mates.

Les Menuires piste map

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

Les Menuires family ski holiday

Les Menuires has made families a priority, and it shows. The resort holds the Famille Plus label, with dedicated children's areas, excellent childcare, and terrain that suits families progressing together. Les Piou-Piou takes children from six months, and ski kindergarten starts at age three in enclosed areas away from busier slopes.

The resort works for the whole family, not just the little ones. Teens and older kids have the Three Valleys to explore, terrain parks to session, and an après scene that's lively without being off-limits. Family-friendly restaurants are easy to find - mountain lunches with terrace views, casual village spots for pizza and pasta, and Savoyard classics for evenings when you want something more memorable.

For rest days, Aquafun has pools and slides, the Walibi Gliss toboggan run is a hit with all ages, and sledging areas keep younger kids entertained. Accommodation leans toward apartments with kitchens - handy for feeding fussy eaters on your own schedule. The Preyerand and Brelin areas are particularly convenient: ski-in access and gentle slopes right on the doorstep.

Things to do in Les Menuires

Beyond the pistes, Les Menuires offers enough variety to fill rest days or keep non-skiers entertained. Here's what to do when you want a change of pace or the lifts have closed.

Snow activities

When you fancy a break from skiing or want to mix things up, Les Menuires offers a wide range of snow activities - from gentle scenic adventures to high-energy thrills, all set against the spectacular Three Valleys backdrop.

  • Snowshoeing: Guided excursions through the Belleville Valley with stunning views of surrounding alpine peaks.
  • La Luge: Permanent luge track with banked turns and fast sections, great fun for all ages.
  • Ice driving: Adrenaline-filled ice driving sessions on a frozen lake for petrolheads and thrill seekers.
  • Walibi Gliss: Epic 4km toboggan run with uplift, perfect for groups and families.
  • Dog sledding: Memorable husky sled rides through snow-covered forests with local mushers.
  • Ski joëring: Unique experience being pulled on skis by a horse across the valley floor.
  • Fat biking: Fat-bike rides on groomed snow trails for a different way to explore the resort.
  • Night skiing: Illuminated ski runs offering atmospheric evening sessions - schedules vary by season.
  • Snowtubing: High-speed tubing lanes delivering fun, laughter, and zero ski skills required.
  • Winter zipline: Thrilling zipline rides soaring above snowy slopes and mountain scenery.
  • Paragliding: Tandem flights providing breathtaking aerial views of the Three Valleys.

Non-snow activities

Whether you're taking a rest day, travelling with non-skiers, or simply fancy a slower pace, Les Menuires offers plenty of off-snow activities, all within a relaxed alpine setting:

  • Aquafun Water Park: Indoor and outdoor pools with slides, wave pool, and wellness areas - perfect for easing tired legs.
  • Ice skating: Outdoor ice rink in the resort centre offering classic winter skating sessions.
  • Spa treatments: Wide choice of massages and spa treatments at hotels and the Sports Centre.
  • Cinema: Regular screenings in original versions, including English-language films.
  • Fitness centre: Well-equipped gym with modern machines and group fitness classes like stretching and yoga.
  • Day trip to Saint-Martin-de-Belleville: Short journey to a charming, traditional Savoyard village with great restaurants.
  • Local food tastings: Discover Savoyard cheeses, charcuterie, and regional specialities.
  • Scenic lift rides: Use pedestrian lifts for panoramic views without skiing.
  • Bowling alley: Fun, laid-back evening entertainment for families and groups.
  • Winter walking paths: Cleared scenic trails for relaxed strolls through the Belleville Valley.

Les Menuires restaurants

Dining in Les Menuires ranges from hearty Savoyard classics to surprisingly refined cuisine. Prices are generally more approachable than neighbouring Méribel or Courchevel, yet there are some genuine culinary gems.

From cosy mountain farms to destination-worthy dining nearby, here are some top recommendations:

  • La Ferme de Reberty: Rustic farmhouse restaurant serving excellent fondue and tartiflette in cosy, traditional surroundings.
  • L'Ours Blanc: Refined mountain cuisine with elegant presentation and attentive, polished service.
  • La Marmite: Popular on-mountain favourite known for generous portions and sweeping valley views.
  • Le Schuss: Lively pizzeria offering quick service, crowd-pleasing pizzas, and a buzzing atmosphere.
  • La Bouitte: Two Michelin-starred dining worth the splurge for a truly special evening.
  • Le Chalet des Neiges: Traditional Savoyard dishes served in a warm, wood-panelled alpine setting.
  • Chez Pépé Nicolas: Characterful mountain restaurant with local specialities — don't miss the blueberry tart.
  • La Ruade: Quality steaks and grills cooked properly, complemented by a solid, well-chosen wine list.

WeSki insider tip: Book La Bouitte well in advance - it's one of the only two-star restaurants in the Alps accessible by ski, and tables fill quickly. Take the blue run down to Saint Martin after lunch.

Les Menuires après-ski

Après-ski in Les Menuires is relaxed, friendly, and sociable, with a welcoming mix of families, couples, and groups of friends. Live music at weekends and sun-soaked terraces set the tone, making it easy to unwind after a day on the mountain without the pressure of all-night partying.

Most of the action centres around La Croisette, the resort's main hub, where bars spill out onto terraces whenever the weather allows. For those wanting a livelier night out, Val Thorens is just a lift ride away, making Les Menuires a great base for affordable stays paired with access to bigger nightlife nearby.

Recommended spots include:

  • Le Bee: Popular terrace bar with mountain views and cold beers - often the first stop after skiing.
  • Le Cooee: Lively terrace bar catching the afternoon sun with DJs and a buzzing après atmosphere.
  • The Brewer's Den: Craft beers and pub grub served in a friendly, relaxed setting.
  • Le Covagny: One of the resort's livelier late-night options with DJs and dancing into the early hours.
  • Le Bel'Vic: Relaxed bar for casual drinks, offering pleasant mountain views and easy conversation.
  • L'Eterlou: Late-night dancing spot for those still full of energy after dinner.
  • La Ruade: Cosy bar with a warm atmosphere, ideal for quieter evening drinks.
  • Les Bruyères Irish Pub: Guinness on tap, live sport on the screens, and a classic pub feel.
  • Le Marais: Wine bar specialising in local Savoie wines, perfect for a slower-paced evening.

Les Menuires map

Les Menuires map

Planning your trip to Les Menuires

Les Menuires accommodation

Les Menuires accommodation is predominantly apartments, many of which offer ski-in, ski-out access. These range from simple studios to spacious family units. Most buildings date from the 1960s and 70s - but interiors have generally been modernised.

The resort is spread across several quartiers: La Croisette is the main hub with shops, restaurants, and nightlife within walking distance; Reberty 2000 sits higher and quieter with excellent slope access; Les Bruyères offers a good balance of convenience and value; and Preyerand is particularly popular with families thanks to its proximity to gentle slopes and amenities.

WeSki insider tips:

  • Reberty 2000 gives the best ski-in, ski-out access and tends to hold snow when lower areas get slushy in spring.
  • La Croisette is best for nightlife and dining - you can stumble home after dinner.
  • Les Bruyères offers quieter evenings but requires a short walk or free shuttle to the main lifts.
  • For traditional Savoyard charm, consider staying in Saint Martin de Belleville and skiing up - it's reachable by gondola.

Les Menuires ski pass

Ski pass options in Les Menuires cater to different ambitions. The local Belleville Valley pass covers Les Menuires and Saint Martin de Belleville - 160km of terrain that's plenty for a week if you're not chasing long-distance exploration. The Three Valleys pass unlocks the full 600km system, connecting Courchevel, Méribel, and Val Thorens.

You can choose your ski pass options when booking your Les Menuires ski package on WeSki, keeping everything in one place.

Equipment hire

Rental shops operate throughout Les Menuires, with outlets in each main quartier. Standard packages include skis, boots, and poles, with upgrades available for performance equipment. Helmets are increasingly included or available cheaply. Booking in advance means equipment is ready when you arrive - no queuing on day one. Return is usually straightforward: drop gear at the shop the evening before departure.

WeSki partners with SkiSet shops in Les Menuires, letting you add equipment to your package and collect on arrival. Browse Les Menuires ski deals to build your perfect trip.

Getting around Les Menuires

Getting around Les Menuires is straightforward. Free shuttle buses connect the quartiers throughout the day, running roughly every 15-30 minutes during peak times. Evening buses continue until late, handy for getting back from restaurants.

The resort is reasonably compact, and if you're staying near La Croisette, most amenities are within walking distance. Taxis are available but expensive - book ahead for airport transfers. During the day, skis are often the quickest way to travel between areas.

WeSki insider tip: Download the Les Menuires app for real-time bus tracking and lift queue information - it saves a lot of guesswork.

How to get to Les Menuires

Les Menuires is accessible from several airports. Geneva is a good option for UK travellers, roughly 190km away with transfer times of around 2.5-3 hours depending on traffic and conditions. Chambéry is closer at 110km but has fewer flights. Lyon is an alternative at 190km. Grenoble sits 185km away.

The drive from Geneva is scenic once you leave the motorway, climbing through the Tarentaise Valley past Moûtiers. Eurostar to Moûtiers is an option - the station sits at the valley bottom with bus connections to the resort. Driving from the UK is feasible if you fancy a road trip - it's around 965km from Calais.

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

Les Menuires FAQs

Is Les Menuires good for beginners?

Yes, Les Menuires is excellent for beginners. The resort has dedicated learning areas including the gentle Bettex zone, and the progression to blue runs happens naturally. Wide, well-groomed pistes give new skiers space to practise without feeling crowded. The ESF and independent ski schools offer English-speaking instruction, and the Famille Plus label means family-focused facilities throughout. Beginner lift passes are available at reduced rates while you're learning.

How does Les Menuires compare to other Three Valleys resorts?

Les Menuires offers better value than Méribel and Courchevel while providing the same ski pass access to 600km of terrain. Accommodation and dining cost noticeably less, and the atmosphere is more relaxed and family-focused. The trade-off is less traditional village charm - this is purpose-built 1960s architecture rather than wooden chalets. Val Thorens is higher and snowier but also purpose-built; Les Menuires sits lower with easier road access.

Is snow reliable in Les Menuires?

Snow reliability is good thanks to the resort's altitude and orientation. Les Menuires sits at 1,850m with skiing up to 2,850m, and most slopes face north, preserving snow well. The link to Val Thorens at 2,300m provides access to glacier skiing when conditions warrant. The season typically runs from early December through late April. Snowmaking covers key runs to shore up natural coverage when needed.

Are there long queues in Les Menuires?

Queues are generally manageable, particularly compared to more famous neighbours. The main bottleneck is the Bruyères gondola connecting to Val Thorens - this can build up after 9am during peak weeks. The Masse chairlifts rarely have significant waits and access some of the best terrain. French school holidays in February and the Easter period bring the biggest crowds. Early starts help, as does exploring the quieter Saint Martin side of the valley.

Is Les Menuires good value for money?

Yes, Les Menuires represents strong value for Three Valleys skiing. Accommodation tends to cost less than Courchevel or Méribel, and restaurants and bars are noticeably cheaper too. You get the same ski pass access to 600km of terrain. The trade-off is less picturesque architecture and a more functional feel, but for families and those prioritising skiing over scenery, it's a smart choice.

Where should I stay in Les Menuires?

It depends on your priorities. La Croisette suits those wanting nightlife, restaurants, and shops on the doorstep. Reberty 2000 is best for ski-in, ski-out convenience and tends to be quieter. Les Bruyères offers good value with a short walk or shuttle ride to lifts. Preyerand works well for families with its gentle slopes and proximity to amenities. For a more traditional village feel, Saint Martin de Belleville is 10 minutes away by gondola.

Can I ski to Val Thorens and Méribel from Les Menuires?

Yes, with a Three Valleys pass you can ski directly to both. Val Thorens is connected via the Bruyères gondola and a series of lifts - expect around 30-40 minutes of skiing each way. Méribel is accessible over the ridge via Mont de la Chambre, with similar journey times. Both make excellent day trips, and you can easily do a Three Valleys circuit covering all the resorts in a long day.

Is Les Menuires good for families?

Excellent - Les Menuires holds the Famille Plus label for family-friendly credentials. Childcare takes children from 6 months, children's ski areas are excellent, and facilities like Aquafun pool and the Walibi Gliss toboggan add non-skiing fun. The value means family ski trips become more affordable.

What's the nightlife like in Les Menuires?

Relaxed and affordable rather than wild. The scene suits families and groups wanting sociable drinks. For livelier options, Val Thorens is a lift ride away - staying in Les Menuires and partying in Val Thorens is a popular combination.

Explore other resorts in France

Val Thorens - La Plagne - Chamonix - Tignes - Avoriaz - Val d'Isère - Méribel - Les Arcs - 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

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