Skiing holiday Serre Chevalier
Serre Chevalier is a royal ski destination located in the southwestern Alps, close to Italy and just a three-hour drive from the Mediterranean. Made up of four ski villages, this ski area is a unique blend of culture, sunshine and magnificent skiing. It is France’s 8th largest ski area and is a truly affordable ski area.
Short description of Serre Chevalier
What makes Serre Chevalier unique is its proximity to Italy and Provence, which has a great influence on the climate. This means that the ski area has over 300 days of sunshine a year, making it one of the sunniest ski resorts in the Alps. Despite the sunny weather, there’s always plenty of snow thanks to the high altitude and the fact that most of Grande Serre Chevalier faces north.
Serre Chevalier ski info
Serre Chevalier ski area offers:
- 250 km of slopes
- 59 ski lifts including the iconic “Serre Chevalier” gondola
- 82 slopes (13 black, 30 red, 26 blue and 13 green)
- Webcams from Serre Chevalier
Why choose Serre Chevalier?
Serre Chevalier is a large ski area, with 80% of the ski area located above 2000m, the Serre Chevalier valley enjoys some of the best conditions available, making it the perfect destination for a ski vacation in December or Easter holidays.
Modern lifts in Serre Chevalier
Many of the ski lifts in the Serre Chevalier valley have recently been upgraded, meaning less time on the lifts and more time on the snow. With further upgrades planned for the future, this is a truly world-class ski resort.
The ski race in Serre Chevalier
Serre Chevalier offers a wide range of terrain – from the wooded slopes further down the mountain to the wilder off-piste areas closer to the peaks. Each of the four villages has direct lifts up to the slopes. Three of the villages have children’s areas and the rest of the 250 km area is mainly blue and red runs. Plus, there’s an Olympic black run.
Beginners in Serre Chevalier
Three of the resort’s four villages have children’s areas at the bottom, so it’s usually a convenient place to start your ski vacation here. There’s also a beginners’ area at the top of the Ratier gondola where you can take in the wild mountain views while practicing technique – and this is where most ski school groups head after the first day. From here there’s an easy beginner’s slope that offers tree-lined green slopes back to the valley.
Easily experienced in Serre Chevalier
For skiers with a little bit of everything, Serre Chevalier has the best of everything. On snowy days, head to the wooded slopes to take in the picturesque scenery as you descend through the trees. Or if the weather is clear, the open slopes and wide areas above the tree line are just the thing. In terms of terrain, there’s more than enough for a week’s skiing, not to mention a few black runs that aren’t too steep if you feel ready for more speed and greater challenges.
Experts in Serre Chevalier
Serre Chevalier offers a wealth of challenges for advanced skiers, both on and off the slopes. With 15 black runs, perhaps the most difficult is the L’Eychauda run from the top of the area high above Villeneuve. As with most of the area’s other highest points, these mountains provide some of the steepest terrain in the whole area and offer a selection of marked black runs such as the Col du Vent from the area’s highest point at Pic de l’Yret above Monetier, or the Isolee down from L’Eychauda.
Further down at the tree line there are long black runs that include Tabuc to Monetier or Casse de Boeuf to Villeneuve. The Olympic piste named after local hero Luc Alphand to Chantemerle is another in the same vein. Off-piste – Ski schools are happy to offer guided tours. If that’s still not enough, the legendary off-piste destination La Grave is worth a day trip.
Snowboard and freestyle
Snowboarding and especially freestyle seems to be constantly evolving in Serre Chevalier, at last check there were three terrain parks, a quarter pipe and two boardercross courses. The largest park is located in the Villeneuve area and usually has several dozen facilities of boxes, rails and kickers.
Cross country skiing in Serre Chevalier
Cross-country skiers get more than 32 km of trails, most of which are down in the valley connecting the majority of the 13 villages. Routes for all levels follow the meadows and forests of the Guisane river valley. The only very easy route is a 2km green route, Les Albeyres, next to Villeneuve, but around it and over to Le Monetier is the most challenging trail, La Virade, which is a 16km route. There are easy blue and medium red tracks in all three villages too, along with cafés and restaurants along the tracks to stop for a hot chocolate or something else.
Serre Chevalier – Off-Piste, Backcountry & Ski Touring
Serre Chevalier has a lot to offer for off-piste skiers. There is a good selection of terrain that either leads back to the lift system or goes to another area included in the lift pass. Furthermore, Serre’s snow conditions are exceptionally good – thanks to mainly north-facing slopes, high altitude pistes and the lower slopes are protected by trees.
Aprés-ski in Serre Chevalier
Serre Chevalier is not only one of the most charming ski destinations in the Alps, but it is also home to a unique and great après-ski experience. It’s not about comparing après ski from different areas. It’s about the people you’re with.
Alpen Bar
Bar de l’Alpen is a bar in Le Monetier. With live music, major sporting events on TV, friendly staff and free après-ski snacks, it’s perhaps the only place to consider when you want to relax after a day on the slopes or have a drink.
The Grotto
La Grotte is located right at the foot of the slopes. During the day it functions as a restaurant, but when the sun goes down it transforms into an après-ski bar. Here you can glide straight from the slopes to the door of this cozy bar for a drink or two, have a game of billiards, or swing your hips to the sounds of live music.
Bar 1420
Bar 1420, named after the hill in the Villeneuve part of the ski resort, is a laid-back spot serving an excellent selection of beers and wines, as well as a delicious menu of après-ski snacks. Bar 1420 stays open until late, so you can come back after dinner and dance to the music of DJs and live bands.
The Royal
Le Royal is a popular après-ski spot in Chantermerle where you can have a drink while taking in the views of the ski slopes from the outdoor terrace. It’s the perfect place to relax and soak up the atmosphere after a day of skiing.
The Cocoon
Le Cocoon is a small and cozy place that is ideal if you want a quiet drink at the end of the day. Here you can warm up with a hot chocolate or order one of the local beers. Le Cocoon’s intimate atmosphere makes it the perfect place to relax and recharge after a challenging day on the slopes.
The Chazelay
Le Chazelay is conveniently located between Frejus and the Casse du Boeuf chairlifts, making it the ideal place for some early après-ski drinks on the sunny outdoor terrace. If you’re a night owl, come back in the evening when DJs keep the party going.
Restaurants in Serre Chevalier
Serre Chevalier is a ski area with around 20 excellent restaurants. From charming family-owned eateries to Michelin-starred restaurants, this stunning area of France has a lot to offer.
Many of the local restaurants in Serre Chevalier are run by friendly and welcoming families, offering a selection of traditional French dishes at very reasonable prices. These restaurants, with their cozy atmosphere, provide an authentic insight into local cuisine, where every bite is a testament to the French love of cooking.
Le Loup Blanc, Chantermerle
Le Loup Blanc is known for its modern decorated environment and offers a wide range of seasonal dishes. From creamy fondue and raclette to juicy steaks and delicious desserts, you won’t leave hungry at this restaurant. Le Loup Blanc is a family restaurant where everyone can find something they like.
Au Plaisir Ambré, Briançon
Au Plaisir Ambré is the ideal choice for a unique gastronomic experience. The innovative menu offers a range of delicious dishes including crab tartare, veal and chestnut gnocchi, as well as a raspberry tarragon tart that will make your taste buds dream.
Pêché Gourmand, Briançon
Le Pêché Gourmand, the only Michelin-starred restaurant in the area, presents a menu designed around the four seasons. With a fusion of local and Asian flavors, this restaurant truly puts local French cuisine in the spotlight.
Number of slopes in Serre Chevalier
26
29
13
3
Serre Chevalier hotels
Serre Chevalier, has great hotels that really put the icing on the cake. From state-of-the-art spa and wellness centers to sophisticated interiors, the hotels know how to pamper their skiers.
Read more about: Best hotels in Serre Chevalier
Alliey & Spa Piscine Aparthotel
Located in Le Monêtier-les-Bains, just a short walk from the Serre Chevalier Monêtier slopes, the Alliey & Spa Piscine Appart-hôtel is the perfect place for a relaxing and refreshing stay. With its seasonal outdoor pool and access to a first-class spa, jacuzzi and Turkish bath, this hotel is the ideal place to recharge your batteries after a long day on the slopes.
Each room has a private bathroom equipped with a hairdryer and free toiletries, and free WiFi is available throughout the hotel.
Rock Noir & Spa
Rock Noir & Spa, located in the Serre Chevalier valley and just a few steps from the Aravet ski lift, is a hotel created for the mature skier. With free access to an indoor pool and sauna, it’s the ideal place to relax after a great day on the slopes.
The rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV, a coffee machine and a private bathroom with a hairdryer, free toiletries, slippers and a bathrobe. The upper rooms also have a balcony. Rock Noir & Spa is an ideal choice for those who want to combine first-class skiing with modern comfort and luxury.
Hotel Mont Thabor
Hôtel Mont Thabor, located in La Salle Les Alpes, offers guests an authentic alpine experience. Just a short walk from the Aravet ski lift, the hotel is ideal for those looking to spend the day on the slopes.
Rooms are equipped with a desk, flat-screen TV and balcony or terrace. Some rooms also have mountain views. The hotel also has a bar with a creative wine/cocktail list. Some rooms at Hôtel Mont Thabor have a safe and all rooms have a private bathroom with either a bath or shower, hairdryer and free toiletries.
Le Grand Aigle Hotel & Spa
Le Grand Aigle Hotel & Spa, located in the ski resort of Serre Chevalier, is the ultimate destination for skiers and wellness enthusiasts with a love for the mountains. With a sauna, hot tub and massage treatments, it’s the ideal hotel for a great ski vacation.
Guests have skiing experiences right on their doorstep, and the hotel also offers views of the ski area. Breakfast is served daily at Le Grand Aigle Hotel & Spa and dinner is available in the on-site restaurant. With free Wi-Fi throughout, it’s a great choice for those who want to combine luxury with great skiing.
France has many great ski resorts including – Montgenévre, Risoul, St. Francois Longchamp. Francois Longchamp, Val Cenis, Valfréjus and many others.
Prices in Serre Chevalier
Pris på Liftkort
6-day lift passes cost 2570 DKK for an adult.
Children from 0-6 years are free.
You can book lift passes and see prices at skipass-serrechevalier.com.
Pris på skileje
Ski equipment rental for adults for 6 days from 700 DKK.
Adult snowboard rental for 6 days from 700 DKK.
There can be a lot of money to save, in fact up to 65% by booking well in advance and online. You can rent ski equipment in Serre Chevalier, via Alpy.
En god Restaurant
In Serre Chevalier there are plenty of dining options, including. Le loup blanc, La Marotte, Eau Petit Point, Relais de Ratier, Le Refuge and many more in the valley.
Piste map Serre Chevalier
Video from Serre Chevalier
FAQ - Questions for Serre Chevalier
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How much snow falls in Serre Chevalier?
They are known for their more than 300 sunny days a year, just like Alpe d'Huez. Turin airport is not far away. It's the largest ski area in the south of France and an area that offers everything in the resort.
What is Serre Chevalier known for?
It's one of the areas that gets a good amount, they are around 3 meters during a season.
