Serre Chevalier

Serre Chevalier Vallée Briançon, located in the French Southern Alps, has established itself as one of Europe’s leading ski destinations. With 250 kilometres of slopes, an altitude of 2,800 metres and 4,100 hectares of groomed terrain, it is one of the largest ski areas in the Alps. It offers a diverse experience for alpine skiers and cross-country skiing enthusiasts alike, with 45 kilometres of Nordic trails.

Skiing in Serre Chevalier

Serre Chevalier Vallée Briançon is a large ski area (250 km of slopes) divided into several sectors, each with its own unique characteristics and landscapes. The main sectors are Briançon, Chantemerle, Villeneuve and Monêtier, linked by a modern network of ski lifts that provides quick access to all sectors. In addition, Serre Chevalier enjoys an exceptional climate, with over 300 days of sunshine per year, making it one of the sunniest resorts in Europe. This allows you to ski under clear skies, an advantage for those looking for a milder climate during their winter holidays.

One of the resort’s most remarkable lifts is the Le Pontillas gondola lift, located in the Villeneuve sector. This modern facility was recently inaugurated and allows skiers to quickly reach the Méa sector at an altitude of 2,255 metres, a key point for beginners and those looking for spectacular views. The most iconic peaks in the area are the Pic de l’Yret (2,830 metres) and the Sommet des Prorel (2,566 metres), both accessible by chairlift. From these points, you can access some of the resort’s longest and most scenic slopes, offering an unrivalled skiing experience and views of the Alps. In terms of connectivity, the valleys are seamlessly linked by a network of lifts and slopes that allow you to explore the entire area without having to take off your skis.

This makes Serre Chevalier an ideal place to explore the vast ski area, enjoying different environments in a single day.

Night skiing

Finally, Serre Chevalier offers night skiing in the Briançon and Villeneuve areas. In Briançon, skiers can enjoy this experience under the stars on Wednesdays during school holidays, with free access to the Prorel 1 cable car from 7pm to 10pm. In Villeneuve, night skiing is available on Tuesdays in the Mickey Discovery area from 5pm to 9pm during the February and March school holidays. This event also includes the popular Demo Ski Show, which features torchlight descents and acrobatics, and ends with a fireworks display.

Serre Chevalier, a haven of nature and history at the foot of the great Alpine passes

The region is asserting its position as a world leader in winter sports, while adopting exemplary environmental practices. Serre Chevalier produces 30% of its energy from renewable sources such as solar and wind power. This choice reflects a desire to offer a more sustainable skiing experience, in line with the 2030 Winter Olympics.

The resort, located at the foot of the Écrins National Park, offers an experience combining sport, nature and well-being. Les Grands Bains du Monêtier, with its 44°C waters, completes this unique and rejuvenating offer.

The valley has 14,747 inhabitants spread across its four municipalities, which adds a touch of authenticity to its tourist offering. Numerous churches and chapels (more than 50) bear witness to the richness of its cultural heritage.

For visitors, Serre Chevalier has 52,784 tourist beds, ensuring a large accommodation capacity suitable for different styles of travel. Serre Chevalier is not just a winter sports destination. Every summer, the valley is crossed by the riders of the Tour de France. Serre Chevalier is home to some of the Tour de France’s most iconic mountain passes: Galibier, Lautaret, Izoard and Granon can be climbed from Serre Chevalier Vallée Briançon on ski touring in winter.

Finally, it should be noted that the commune of Monêtier-les-Bains is located within the boundaries of the Écrins National Park, the second largest mountaineering area in France, with glaciers and peaks over 4,000 metres high. The hamlet of Le Casset, classified as a ‘Mountaineering Village’, promotes authentic mountaineering that respects nature. In short, Serre Chevalier combines nature, culture, sustainability and a huge range of mountain sports, making it a complete and versatile winter destination for all types of visitors.

From biathlon to the Olympics, a resort between nature and performance

In addition, biathlon enthusiasts can enjoy a stadium dedicated to this discipline, and those who prefer ski touring have access to five permanent marked trails. Located in the Hautes-Alpes department, Serre Chevalier covers a vast area stretching from the Col du Galibier to Briançon, the highest town in France. The fortifications of the town of Briançon are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Briançon will also be the Olympic Village during the 2030 Winter Olympics, making it the epicentre of the event in the Southern Alps.

In addition to hosting the half-pipe, mogul skiing and freestyle skiing events during the 2030 Winter Olympics, Serre Chevalier stands out for its commitment to sustainable development.

While consolidating its position as a world leader in winter sports, the region is also at the forefront of environmental practices, with 30% of the energy used coming from renewable sources such as solar panels and wind power. This reflects its approach to more responsible and sustainable skiing, in line with the values of the upcoming Winter Olympics in the French Alps.

Innovations in Serre Chevalier (2024-2025 season)

The 2024-2025 winter season in Serre Chevalier has been marked by several important new developments, both in terms of infrastructure and sustainability. These improvements have enhanced the visitor experience while strengthening the resort’s commitment to protecting the environment.

Opening of the Clôt des Vaches refuge

Since December 2024, the Clôt des Vaches refuge has been operational at an altitude of 2,250 metres in the Cerces massif. This refuge, which can accommodate 30 people, is exemplary in its ecological approach: built with local materials such as Alpine wood and recycled glass for insulation, it produces its own energy using photovoltaic panels. A hydroelectric turbine, scheduled for 2026, will complete this sustainable system. This refuge offers hikers and mountain skiers environmentally friendly accommodation with breathtaking views of the Écrins National Park.

Reopening of Club Med

Club Med in Serre Chevalier, which has been in the resort since 1965, has reopened after a complete renovation supported by a £45 million investment. Located in La Salle-les-Alpes, the resort has modernised its infrastructure while improving its energy efficiency, in line with the region’s environmental objectives. New features include a large indoor swimming pool with panoramic views, a Payot spa and the Gourmet Club, which showcases local specialities.

New facilities for beginners in Méa

The Méa sector, located at an altitude of 2,255 metres, has benefited from the installation of a new 150-metre covered ski lift for beginner skiers. This facility improves access to the slopes while protecting against the elements, providing an ideal environment for learning to ski. This new feature is part of Serre Chevalier’s strategy to adapt to climate change and ensure sustainable conditions for skiing.

Digital ski pass system

Serre Chevalier has also rolled out a digital ski pass system using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology. This system allows skiers to manage their passes directly via their smartphones, without the need for physical media. This innovation simplifies access to the slopes and helps reduce environmental impact by limiting the use of plastic.

Sustainability and environmental commitment

Serre Chevalier Vallée Briançon has been a pioneer in the implementation of sustainable practices, establishing itself as one of the most environmentally committed ski resorts in Europe. Since 2006, the resort has developed a series of initiatives aimed not only at reducing its impact on the environment, but also at driving a shift towards more responsible mountain tourism.

Renewable energy production

One of the resort’s greatest achievements is its ability to self-produce 30% of the energy it consumes from renewable sources. Since 2018, Serre Chevalier has invested in facilities such as solar panels, wind turbines and hydroelectric power plants, which enable it to supply a significant proportion of its energy needs. This not only reduces the resort’s carbon footprint, but also ensures a more sustainable use of local resources.

Reducing energy consumption

Over the past three years, Serre Chevalier has managed to reduce its electricity consumption by 20% as part of a broader energy efficiency strategy. This has been achieved through the optimisation of snowmaking systems and the introduction of more efficient technologies in the ski lifts and other resort services.

Circular economy in infrastructure

One of Serre Chevalier’s most innovative initiatives is the adoption of the circular economy concept in its infrastructure projects. For example, the recent installation of the new Pontillas gondola lift was the first project to apply these principles. Two obsolete ski lifts were carefully dismantled with the aim of reusing as many materials as possible in the resort, in collaboration with the municipality and other operators. This approach avoids wasting raw materials and reduces the need to produce new components, in line with the resort’s sustainability values.

Reducing CO2 emissions

Serre Chevalier has also taken an important step towards reducing its CO2 emissions by adopting HVO vegetable fuel for its snow groomers. This has reduced emissions from these vehicles, which are essential for maintaining the slopes, by up to 80%.

Ski Regenerative: a useful event

As part of its commitment to the environment, Serre Chevalier is organising a new annual event, Ski Regenerative, which will take place from 4 to 6 April 2025. This event will bring together key players from the mountain and ski industry to discuss innovations and sustainable practices. It will include forums, workshops, round tables and an innovation village open to the public, where recycling, equipment repair and new technology testing activities will take place. The aim is to promote a circular economy and more environmentally friendly skiing.

Serre Chevalier in summer

Serre Chevalier is not just about winter sports. In summer, the resort is transformed into a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. With its marked trails and legendary passes such as the Galibier and Izoard, the valley is ideal for mountain biking, hiking and trail running. Two-wheel enthusiasts will particularly appreciate Serre Chevalier’s pump track, a loop circuit specially designed for bikes, scooters and skateboards, combining bumps and banked turns for fun or training in complete safety. With its high-altitude lakes, authentic villages and wide open spaces, summer in Serre Chevalier is an invitation to adventure, sport and relaxation.

How to get to Serre Chevalier

Serre Chevalier Vallée Briançon is located in the heart of the French Alps, in the Hautes-Alpes department, within the PACA region (Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur), giving it a strategic position close to the Italian border. Its privileged location offers not only spectacular landscapes but also excellent connectivity for international visitors. The resort is well connected to major European cities, offering easy access by road, rail and air.

The nearest airports are Turin (115 km), Grenoble (158 km) and Lyon (205 km), as well as other options in Italy such as Milan Malpensa (228 km). For those who prefer to travel by train, Briançon station is less than a kilometre from the slopes and has direct daily connections to Paris by night train.

Serre Chevalier is also easily accessible by car, with road links connecting the resort to cities such as Marseille and Grenoble.

From Paris, travellers can opt for the direct TGV to Grenoble, followed by a bus transfer to the resort. To make access even easier, the resort offers a shuttle service connecting the various sites in the valley, allowing visitors to travel easily between Briançon, Chantemerle, Villeneuve and Monêtier-les-Bains.

This transport network is ideal for those who want to explore the different areas of the resort without worrying about driving.

Webcams of the Serre-Chevalier ski resort

If you want to see the current conditions at the ski resort and its natural surroundings, you will find below the webcams of Serre-Chevalier and the surrounding area in real time.

Col du Lautaret

Webcam of Serre Chevalier

Highlights of accommodation in Serre Chevalier

Serre Chevalier not only offers a privileged natural environment for winter sports, but also a varied and exceptional range of accommodation combining luxury, sustainability and immersion in the local culture. The most recent and iconic projects for the 2024-2025 season and the following season are presented below.

Club Med Serre Chevalier

Located in La Salle-les-Alpes, the iconic Club Med in Serre Chevalier has been completely renovated thanks to a £45 million investment. The complex, inspired by an alpine hamlet, blends perfectly into the natural environment while improving infrastructure, energy efficiency and service quality. It offers an indoor swimming pool with mountain views, a Payot spa and a Gourmet Club serving local specialities such as wild garlic fondue. The hotel is also an ideal destination for families, with a kids’ club that welcomes children from 4 months old.

4* Hotel Le Monêtier

The Hotel Le Monêtier is a 4-star establishment located in Monêtier-les-Bains, in the heart of the Serre Chevalier valley. It offers a unique experience facing the Alpine glaciers, in a modern and intimate setting. The hotel has 21 contemporary rooms, all facing the mountains, with panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks. Its warm atmosphere is enhanced by the Le Stabatio restaurant, which serves local cuisine in a friendly atmosphere. The 150 m² terrace allows guests to fully enjoy the exceptional surrounding landscape. A wellness area completes the offer, in partnership with the Origine brand, offering natural and organic treatments.

Visitors are invited to relax in a refined and environmentally friendly setting. Many activities are available nearby, including skiing, snowshoeing and hiking in the Écrins National Park. The Hotel Le Monêtier is an ideal base for exploring the Alpine countryside and enjoying an unforgettable getaway.

4* Hotel Le Grand Aigle

The Hotel Grand Aigle & Spa, a 4-star establishment nestled in the heart of the Serre Chevalier valley, offers an experience that combines authenticity and modernity. Located in the charming hamlet of Le Bez, close to the new Pontillas gondola lift, this hotel is ideal for ski enthusiasts with its direct access to the slopes.

Le Grand Aigle offers 60 elegant rooms and suites, all decorated in a mountain style that blends poetry and graphic design. Facilities include a Pure Altitude spa, a cosy restaurant, L’Aiglon, and a bar reminiscent of the friendly atmosphere of a family home. The hotel is an ideal base for winter and summer activities such as snowmobiling and dog sledding.

Résidence 4 MMV (scheduled to open in 2025-2026)

This new complex located in Le Salle-les-Alpes will offer 164 apartments with a total capacity of 1,000 beds. The 12,000 m² residence will feature a water park with a swimming pool, sauna and hammam, as well as a spa equipped with treatment rooms. Designed to strict environmental standards, the building will be heated by a pellet boiler and solar panels. The project will incorporate green spaces and aims to achieve NF HABITAT HQE environmental certification. Its proximity to the new Le Pontillas gondola lift will make it ideal accommodation for skiers.Ré

Skiing in Serre Chevalier: the resort’s advantages

In 2030, Serre Chevalier will host the Winter Olympics, strengthening its position among the best ski resorts in France.

• The ski area is vast and diverse, with 250 kilometres of slopes spread between Briançon, Chantemerle, Villeneuve and Monêtier-les-Bains, offering a wide variety of landscapes.
• Thanks to BLE technology, ski passes can now be accessed directly from a mobile phone to use the ski lifts.
• The resort is committed to sustainability, producing 30% of its energy from renewable sources such as solar and wind power.
• It has reduced its CO₂ emissions by up to 80%, while integrating circular economy principles into its daily management.
• After skiing, relax at the Grands Bains du Monêtier, a 4,500 m² space with swimming pools, jacuzzis and relaxation areas.
• The spa centre is perfect for recovering after an active day in a soothing and rejuvenating mountain setting.
• Serre Chevalier retains an authentic atmosphere with its traditional villages such as Chantemerle and Villeneuve, rich in charm and Alpine culture.
• Visitors can also enjoy cross-country skiing, with 45 km of dedicated trails through unspoilt natural landscapes.
• Thrill-seekers will love the snowparks, freestyle areas and boardercross trails available throughout the resort.
• A free shuttle service connects the different villages in the valley, making it easy for all visitors to get around.