Villard De Lans

Long before the rise of winter tourism, Villard-de-Lans and Corrençon-en-Vercors were already lively villages steeped in tradition. Even today, life here follows the rhythm of the seasons, with a wealth of local heritage preserved: local produce, respectful architecture, a ski resort france, heritage and a strong mountain identity.

The Villard De Lans ski resort

Villard de Lans or Corrençon? Each has its own identity… While the lively pedestrian streets of Villard invite you to enjoy yourself, Corrençon boasts the charm of a small, authentic and peaceful mountain village. Rivalry? Quite the contrary!

Although attachment to their local area is deeply rooted in the minds of the inhabitants, the two municipalities have managed to turn their complementary nature into a real asset. Sunglasses and sun cream, gloves and hats… enjoy the pleasures of snow and winter in Villard de Lans Corrençon en Vercors!

Fancy a break between runs or a moment of peace away from the hustle and bustle of the slopes? Let your desires guide you: in Villard-de-Lans, the mountains can also be enjoyed in relaxation mode. Nestled on the slopes, the mountain restaurants welcome you for lunch in the sun or a well-deserved hot drink, comfortably seated in a deckchair facing the mountains. The perfect opportunity to recharge your batteries while enjoying a breathtaking panorama.

The Villard De Lans ski area

With 125 km of slopes, the Villard/Corrençon ski area is the largest in the Vercors. It offers a variety of slopes suitable for all levels, from wide, gentle descents to forest trails and powder snow fields offering exceptional views of the surrounding canyons and pine trees. There are plenty of routes to delight a very eclectic clientele in search of thrills, excitement and fulfilment.

Snow cover is guaranteed throughout the season thanks to a fleet of 400 snow cannons, ensuring optimal skiing conditions from the first snowfall. The modern and well-spaced ski lifts ensure smooth traffic flow throughout the resort. High-altitude restaurants welcome skiers for a gourmet break, while cosy mountain huts invite you to relax over a hearty mountain meal.

The Villard De Lans ski resort is committed to sustainable development

The municipality of Villard-de-Lans wishes to pursue its economic and social development in a balanced manner, respecting and taking into account the natural environment and landscape, and integrating transport and energy issues.

The prospects for demographic, residential and economic growth mean that vacant land will have to be used or existing buildings reused. The municipality’s project aims to prioritise the reuse and densification of urbanised land in order to limit urban expansion to what is strictly necessary, as urban sprawl is irreversible and land is not a renewable resource. The preservation of agricultural land and water resources is a major challenge due to the vital role of agriculture and water in feeding the population.

Unforgettable experiences in Villard De Lans

In Villard-de-Lans, snow isn’t just synonymous with skiing: it becomes a real playground where everyone can explore the magic of winter in their own way. For thrill seekers, a new form of snow sports has arrived on the slopes: airboarding. This inflatable sled, which you ride lying on your stomach, offers a unique experience of speed and proximity to the snow, just a few centimetres above the ground. A fun activity, accessible from the age of ten, it appeals to teenagers looking for an adrenaline rush as well as adults curious to try new sensations.

On quieter trails, cycling enthusiasts will find what they are looking for with fatbikes, mountain bikes specially designed for snow, with wide tyres that ensure perfect stability even on frozen ground. Whether on your own or with a guide, this winter activity allows you to explore the area in a different way, enjoying sumptuous panoramic views of the Vercors plateaus and snow-covered forests.

But the magic of Villard-de-Lans also lies in its ability to offer gentle activities designed for all ages. Snowshoe walks are ideal for discovering the mountains in a different way, far from the hustle and bustle of the slopes, in the hushed silence of the frost-covered pine trees. Families enjoy sledging, either one-to-one with the little ones or in a group battle full of laughter. For an even more poetic experience, there’s nothing like a horse-drawn carriage ride through the village or along the snow-covered trails.

The mountain resort of Villard De Lans in summer

Far from falling asleep once the slopes close, Villard-de-Lans in summer transforms into a true paradise for nature lovers. Canyoning finds an ideal playground here: the cool rivers that wind through the Vercors gorges offer thrills, including jumps, abseiling and natural slides.

And for those who can’t wait to hit the slopes, even out of season, you can try your hand at roller skiing under the guidance of experienced instructors in a safe environment.

Hiking, mountain biking, golf, climbing, fishing and even acrobatic courses in the forest enrich the summer offering. Everything has been designed to allow everyone to enjoy the mountains in their own way, whether they are looking for adrenaline or simply to breathe in the fresh air.

Hotels in the resort of Villard De Lans

Hôtel & Spa Les Clarines ***

This hotel is ideally located in the heart of the small village and close to all activities, both in summer and winter. You will be welcomed in a charming hotel with a wellness area.

The rooms are tastefully decorated and offer a great view of the resort’s beautiful mountains. Drop off your bags!

Hôtel du Golf ***

The Hôtel du Golf is a charming hotel in the middle of the Vercors Natural Park and located right next to all activities: skiing, golf, hiking… With its simple décor and wood panelling, this establishment is a delight for refined souls!

Hôtel la Roseraie ***

In the centre of the village, the hotel offers comfortable rooms with balconies offering panoramic views. There is also a restaurant with a fireplace, a terrace and a garden.

Skiing in Villard-de-Lans: the resort’s strong points

Nestled in the heart of the Vercors Regional Nature Park, Villard-de-Lans is one of the most iconic resorts in the Dauphiné.

It combines the charm of an authentic village with the energy of a large ski area, shared with neighboring Corrençon-en-Vercors under the name Espace Villard-Corrençon.

Just 40 minutes from Grenoble and less than two hours from Lyon, this resort is one of the most accessible and complete Alpine getaways in the Pre-Alps.

A large and balanced ski area

Espace Villard-Corrençon offers 125 km of slopes, between 1,050 and 2,050 meters of altitude, crossing forests, meadows, and gentle slopes typical of the Vercors.

Blue and red runs flow smoothly between clearings and panoramic views of the Northern Alps.

It is an ideal domain for families and intermediate skiers, but also for those looking for variety: carving areas, fun zones, a snowpark, and technical sections for experts.

Beginners have a dedicated area in the Côte 2000 sector, with adapted lifts and wide, sun-drenched slopes.

A four-season destination

Villard-de-Lans is not a seasonal resort, but a village that is alive all year round.

In winter, downhill and cross-country skiing take center stage; in summer, it becomes a hub for hiking, cycling, and climbing.

Its network of trails connects to the Plateau du Vercors, famous for its biodiversity and its history of resistance during World War II.

In addition, the village boasts a well-preserved architectural heritage, charming hotels, traditional restaurants, and an atmosphere that reminds visitors that here, the mountains are also culture.

History and authenticity

Villard-de-Lans was one of the first ski destinations in France. As early as the 1930s, its inhabitants promoted winter tourism with the first community ski lift in the Vercors, a feat that marked their entrepreneurial identity.

During World War II, the Vercors was a bastion of the French resistance, giving the region a deep symbolic value.

Today, the resort maintains this duality between tradition and modernity: a place where skiing coexists with the memory and authenticity of the territory.

Protected nature and sustainability

Located within a protected natural park, Villard-de-Lans has developed environmentally friendly management practices:

• Control of snow cannons according to water availability. Promotion of public transportation from Grenoble. Protection of wildlife and forest areas.

This philosophy makes it a benchmark for those seeking more responsible mountain tourism.

Tips from the I Love Ski Community for skiing in Villard-de-Lans

1. Wake up with the Vercors.

First thing in the morning, the Côte 2000 sector offers pristine snow and golden light on the peaks. Start the day calmly and let the landscape wake you up.

2. Connect with Corrençon.

The link between the two sectors is smooth and panoramic: long slopes, forest, and that feeling of losing yourself in nature.

3. Mandatory stop on the ridges.

On clear days, the Balcon de Villard viewpoint offers unique views of the Northern Alps and Mont Aiguille, one of the most emblematic mountains in the massif.

4. Gastronomy with identity.

The Vercors is a land of intense flavors: try the Bleu du Vercors-Sassenage and dishes based on local walnuts in one of the village restaurants.

5. It’s not all about skiing.

Ice skating, sledding, and snowshoeing are part of the soul of Villard. And if you’re looking for a cultural break, the local museum and Resistance itineraries connect you with the living history of the area.

6. Enjoy the local après-ski.

There’s no ostentatious luxury, but there is authenticity: terraces with views, bars with fireplaces, and live music in the heart of the village.

7. Sleep in the center.

Staying in the old town allows you to experience the atmosphere of the market, the cafés, and the snow-covered cobbled streets.