In Val Cenis, a unique experience awaits you with the possibility of pedal-boating and kayaking at an altitude of almost 2,000 metres. From the emerald waters of Lac du Mont-Cenis, you can admire exceptional panoramas of the surrounding peaks and discover a flora rich in 700 species.
Created in 1968 to generate hydroelectricity, Lac du Mont-Cenis is one of the largest artificial lakes in France. Recreational boating is permitted on the lake, and since 2022 you can hire a pedalo or kayak during the summer months. The base’s fleet includes 6 pedalos and 10 kayaks, available six days a week from July to August.
Juliette Berneron, who is behind the reopening of the water sports centre in 2022, has noticed a growing demand. “Visitors are looking for an original way to discover the Mont Cenis plateau. The potential of this activity is immense”, she explains. Juliette is a ski instructor in winter and works for the Val Cenis SEM in summer, which actively supports this initiative in collaboration with the municipality.
Val Cenis boosts its summer offering
Every summer, Val Cenis expands its range of accessible leisure activities thanks to its ski lifts. From Sunday to Thursday, from 7 July to 29 August, the Vieux Moulin gondola lift and the Solert chairlift open up new horizons for walkers, hikers and mountain bikers. Activities at the summit include yoga and fitness classes, Mountain Karting, and dining options overlooking the Vanoise National Park.
What’s new in 2024
Val Cenis continues to innovate to offer its visitors unique and memorable experiences. This year, a number of new features have been added to the summer offer, catering for all tastes and ages.
Discoveries with the Alpacas: Aster and Solcito
Aster and Solcito, two adorable alpacas, are the new stars of Val Cenis. These gentle, inquisitive animals accompany families on hour-long walks through the magnificent Alpine scenery. Suitable for children aged 5 and over, these walks allow visitors to relax and reconnect with nature. Led by an experienced guide, participants discover the wealth of local flora while enjoying the soothing company of alpacas.
Off-road electric scooters
For thrill-seekers who want to discover new things at their own pace, Val Cenis now offers two signposted routes for all-terrain electric scooters. Accessible from the age of 14, these routes offer a new way of exploring the surrounding area:
- Balcon du Lac: This route offers breathtaking views over the Mont Cenis lake. Adventurers can explore the trails on their own, enjoying a picturesque and challenging itinerary.
- Balcon de la Vanoise: This trail takes in the majestic panoramas of the Vanoise National Park. Electric scooter users can enjoy the tranquillity of the heights while traversing paths suited to all levels of ability.
Yoga and fitness at altitude
For those looking to recharge their batteries and revitalise, Val Cenis is introducing yoga and fitness sessions at altitude. Held at the top of the ski lifts, these sessions offer the chance to practise wellness activities in an exceptional natural setting. Supervised by professionals, these classes are designed for all levels, offering a moment of relaxation and reconnection with the mountains.
Mountain Kart
Mountain Karting is another exciting activity to discover this summer. Take to the slopes at the wheel of these off-road karts, enjoying speed and thrills in a safe environment. An unforgettable experience for fans of board sports and thrills.
Terrace dining options
Visitors can also take advantage of the new terrace dining options, facing the breathtaking panoramas of the Vanoise National Park. Whether it’s for a convivial lunch or a gourmet break, these areas offer the ideal setting for savouring local cuisine while admiring the scenery.
These new features reflect Val Cenis’ commitment to diversifying and enriching its tourism offering, guaranteeing each visitor a unique and personalised experience.
One day One deal in summer
Val Cenis, a pioneer in dynamic pricing for ski passes, is using its ‘One Day – One Deal’ platform to promote its summer products. Visitors can benefit from attractive offers on various activities, in addition to lift passes.
About Val Cenis
Founded in 1967, the resort of Val Cenis in Haute Maurienne Vanoise (Savoie) offers a diverse ski area at altitudes of between 1,300 and 2,800 metres. With 125 kilometres of downhill ski runs, 75 kilometres of Nordic ski runs and 21 kilometres of marked trails, the resort employs 182 people in winter and generates sales of €18.5 million.
The Mont Cenis water sports centre, created in 1989 to diversify the tourist offer, was relaunched in 2022 thanks to a private initiative. Today, the Val Cenis SEM, in partnership with the municipality, continues to support and develop this activity, which complements the winter offer.
