Mont Blanc - Les Contamines

Set in a peaceful yet dramatic location at the upper end of a beautiful valley, road access from the nearby spa town of Saint Gervais-les-Bains is simple, involving little more than a gentle climb, making Les Contamines Montjoie one of the more accessible ski areas in the French Alps.

It’s also one of the oldest, having welcomed its first skiers around 1900. The once-remote farming village retains its traditional Savoyard appearance, with an attractive skyline of timber chalets still dominated by a lovingly restored Baroque church. Development in response to tourism remains on an unobtrusive, human scale, the very few larger (but still not high-rise) apartment structures being sited close to the Montjoie gondola lift.

The surrounding landscapes are similarly unspoilt, and include some 5,500Ha of protected nature reserve, much of it forested. Among the many peaks towering impressively over both sides of the valley is the legendary Mont-Blanc, beyond which lies Courmayeur and Italy’s Aosta Valley. Similarly hidden from view on the opposite side of the valley are the neighbouring ski areas of Megève, Saint Gervais and Combloux.
Les Contamines is friendly, welcoming and works hard to ensure that its skiing visitors have a great experience, but non-skiers aren’t forgotten.

A selection of dedicated signed routes allows walkers and snow-shoers to explore the peace and tranquillity of the valley floor and also (with a gondola lift ride) higher up the mountain. Add dog-sledding, horse-drawn sleighrides, ice-climbing, ice-skating, plus a range of more relaxed pampering treatments, and there should be something to keep everyone entertained.

Numerous summits dominate the village:

To the west, the ski resort reaches across the hillside of Mont Joly at 2525m joining the Hauteluce ski area via the Col du Joly. The Tête du Veleray marks the summit of the ski slopes. From the summit there is a stunning view of Mont-Blanc, the Aravis mountain range and the valley of Beaufort.

To the east: Les Dômes de Miage, 3673m and the Aiguille de Bionnassay, 4052m, are part of the Mont-Blanc range.

To the south: the road leads to the Bonhomme mountain pass and towards Italy.

Les Contamines is an eco-friendly resort:

In order to reduce village traffic, the resort runs a free shuttle bus service around town and to and from the ski-lifts. Other eco-friendly actions include: recycling waste, treatment of sewage, ski-slope clean-up campaigns, use of organic oil for the slope grooming machines and distribution of pocket ashtrays, reusable keycard…

Les Contamines Resort Opening Dates

Les Contamines open on 16/12/11 and closes on 27/04/12

Follow the links below

Why Les Contamines?

·          Located within a nature reserve

·          Amazing scenery from the mountains

·          Part of a large ski domain – 445km of piste

Childcare in Les Contamines

Galipette Nursery (from 12 to 36 months)

The nursery is open throughout the winter season from 8.30 to 17.30 (7 days a week).
Children must de vaccinated (in particular DT polio) and in good health.

We recommend that you reserve in advance.
Afternoon snacks are provided.
An identity card, health documents, a teddy, a dummy, nappies, warm clothes, an indoor and outdoor outfit & a complete change of clothes.

From 3 to 7 years

Indoor and outdoor activities for young children include: reading, arts & crafts, snow garden, sledging and snowball fun etc...

A list of babysitters is available from the tourist office.

Nature workshops

During their holidays, children can discover this natural winter wonderland, local wildlife and plants, on snow-shoes or on foot!

The Nature Reserve Information Centre

Situated next to the Tourist Office the Nature Reserve Information Centre proposes a series of activities throughout the winter season: exhibitions, outings, presentations, kids' work-shops, a library and media library.

Phone: +33 (0)4 50 91 51 36
contact@maisonreservecontamines.fr
www.maisonreservecontamines.fr/

La Crey Jolie Ferme

During the school holidays come and discover the world of nature in the company of Celine: forest walks, entertainment and storytelling evenings. Entertainment available within schools and play schemes throughout the year.

Céline: + 33 (0)6 17 73 91 50
lacreyjolieferme.canalblog.com

Activities in Les Contamines

Evening skiing

A 2km floodlit slope is open to the public every Wednesday evening from 18h00 to 20h00 (19h00 to 21h00 from February onwards). Free access.

Frozen waterfall

Enjoy an evening ice climbing under the supervision of our local mountain guides.

Ice climbing is a discipline that consists of climbing along glacial formations such as frozen waterfalls.
The frozen waterfall in Les Contamines is situated at Notre Dame de la Gorge and can be used up until the end of March.

Prices: from 23 €.
Open to children and adults, every day from 18h00 to 19h30.
Equipment provided (helmet, crampons and an ice axe). Warm clothes, gloves and ski boots are necessary.

Ice-skating

Natural open air ice rink in the centre of the village. Open from early in December until early March (temperatures permitting). Skate hire on site.

International curling competitions take place on the rink every January.

The rink is open to the public from 10.00 to 12.00 and 14.00 to 18.00. Opening times may vary depending on the temperature.

Evening sessions:

On Mondays and Fridays during the French school holidays (from 18.00 to 20.00). Free access (non-inclusive of skate hire).

Nordic park

Enjoy a number of activities at the Nordic park in Les Contamines. Situated at the heart of Notre Dame de La Gorge, between pine trees, torrents and clearings, the Nordic park is a base for a number of alpine activites:
 - Cross -country skiing & lessons
 - Biathlon
 - Snow-shoe excursions with an alpine leader
 - Ice climbing
 - Dog sled discovery rides
 - Sleigh rides

Information and reservations at the chalet/office at the entrance to the park.

Ski touring

Discover white winter landscapes in the company of a qualified mountain guide. Novice skiers can enjoy a selection of easy circuits whilst experienced skiers can attack the surrounding alpine summits.
Prices from €72 per day.

Paragliding

Enjoy a great paragliding experience above the ski area.

A flight take-off zone at the top of the "Signal" (accessible by cable-car).
A landing zone a the bottom of the" Gorge" cable-car (less than 200m).

For further information

Joly Jumpers: + 33 (0) 4 50 47 01 98
Slope services: +33 (0) 4 50 47 02 05

Speedriding

Speedriding is a cross between paragliding and freeride. This sport offers new free-ride sensations. The speed-riding school organizes daily introduction sessions, weekend sessions and courses.
Prices from 135 € per full day.

Winter walking

Parts of the resort are easily accessible on foot or with snow-shoes. Enjoy a peaceful and safe stroll along snow covered footpaths, clearly signposted and destined for pedestrians.

Arctic dogs

Discover the pleasures of driving a pack of arctic dogs in an atmosphere that compares to the Great North.
Discovery ride

After a short explanation about arctic dogs, Domminique and Bruno will take you on delightful discovery ride in a traditional sledge.

Approximately 45 min 27€

Evening discovery ride

Followed by a traditional candle lit trapper's meal in a heated tent.
Prices from 85 €

From 1st April onwards, come and learn everything about being a musher: the pack, the preparation of dogs in harness, leading dogs, etc
Prices from 120 €/day

Sledging

The resort has two safe sledging areas.
Children must be in the company of a responsible adult.

Evening outings to an alpine restaurant

After a good local meal at Chalet Auberge de Colombaz (1500m), enjoy a 3 kilometre sledge run down towards the village. Price: 39 euros. To get to the restaurants, arrive by ski lift or horse drawn sleigh.
Reservations: tel. 00 33 4 50 47 01 50 or 00 33 6 88 45 98 10

Credit cards not accepted.

Sleigh rides

Enjoy a traditional yet comfortable sleigh ride in a picturesque setting and stop for a snack if you wish.
Take a sleigh ride to an alpine chalet restaurant.

Departure point: village square

2 or 3 people : 25 to 30 €
Edmond CALLAMARD: + 33 (0)4 50 47 05 32

Departure point: Nordic Park

2 or 3 people : 40 €
With a visit of a farm: 50 €
Françis CALLAMARD: + 33 (0)6 81 69 92 55

Saint Gervais Thermal Spa

Parc Thermal - 355, allée du Dr Lépinay - 74190 LE FAYET

Spa - Bien-être : +33 (0)4 50 47 54 57

Cures Thermales : +33 (0)4 50 47 54 54

www.thermes-saint-gervais.com

resabalneo@thermes-st-gervais.fr

resacuremedicale@thermes-st-gervais.fr

A Favored Cure Environment

Saint-Gervais’ thermal waters are rich in mineral salts and trace-elements. The waters are haemostatic, healing, decongestive, hydrating, and calming.

Located at the foot of Mont-Blanc, in a splendid tree-filled park at 600 m (1,970 feet) altitude, Saint-Gervais’ Thermal Baths welcome you in a modern establishment, with the most advanced thermal techniques.

NEW: JANUARY 2011

The spa in Saint-Gervais proposes a new leisure spa concept this coming winter. Indoor and outdoor activities include: steam baths, saunas, bubble beds, hydro massage alcoves, massage jets and outdoor baths. A warm spring water spa complex at the heart of a beautiful park.

Eating Out and Après-Ski in Les Contamines

More than 40 shops and services. 20 restaurants including creperie, tea rooms, pizzeria, takeaway, Savoyard meals…

Supermarkets, bakeries, butchers, delicatessen, regional produce, 5 bars, Pubs, sports shops, sportswear, tobacconist, newsagents, souvenir shops, gift shops, beauty salon, hairdressers, decoration, banks, post office, garage, service station.

Other amenities in Les Contamines

Baby equipment to hire:

Pram: 4 € per day, 20 € per week

Booster seat: 5 € per week

Cot + mattress: 14 € per week

CONTACT CONTAMINES RESERVATION

Tel. 33 (0)4 50 47 05 10 - Fax 33 (0)4 50 47 09 54

reservation@lescontamines.com

www.lescontamines.com

Wifi at tourist office (payable). Cash machine.

All the above information is for information only. For the most up-to-date information please visit the resort tourist office website

Les Contamines Tourist Office

Contact 0033 (0) 4 50 47 01 58

http://en.lescontamines.com/winter-english.html

Access to Les Contamines

By Road: Driving distance from Calais to Les Contamines: 555 miles or 8hrs

Autoroute A40, exit 21 Le Fayet, 12 km from the resort.
The main road from Le Fayet to Les Contamines is regularly cleared.

By Rail: Direct TGV from Paris to Saint-Gervais les Bains Le Fayet (12km away)

Saint-Gervais/Le Fayet railway station Tel. +33 836 35 35 35

For further information : www.voyages-sncf.com
Direct line to SNCF railways: 36 35

Airports:

Geneva Airport is 94km from Les Contamines (1 hour)

www.gva.ch/en 

Chambery Airport is 135km from Les Contamines (1 ½ hours)

www.chambery-airport.com

Lyon Saint-Exupery is 214km from Les Contamines (2 ¼ hours)

www.lyonairport.com

Grenoble Airport is 214km from Les Contamines (2 ¼ hours)

www.grenoble-airport.com

Getting around Les Contamines

Pedestrians:

The village stretches lengthways for more than 5 kilometres. It is surrounded by marked paths and trails leading from one hamlet to the next. For example: If you wish to walk from the village to Notre Dame de La Gorge, follow the path along the bank of the river Bonnant, through the woods and up towards the leisure park.

Free shuttle bus service:

In order to reduce traffic, a FREE shuttle bus service is available within the village.

Airport Transfer to Les Contamines

Pre-book your taxi transfer with Peak Retreats. Please enquire for prices.

Access Plan

Les Contamines France

Click on maps to enlarge

Resort Map

Les Contamines France

SKI AREA

The slopes wind down between glens and dales, wide runs, cosy pine forests chalets and old authentic farm buildings. The village nestles at the foot of Mont-Blanc with the higher slopes offering magnificent views of the mountains and the lower areas offering sheltered tree-lined skiing.

The discrete location means that skiing here remains something of a well-kept secret, but the quality of what’s on offer has brought Les Contamines Montjoie a loyal and enthusiastic following among those who have discovered it.

The local downhill terrain is seamlessly integrated with that of Hauteluce, in the adjoining Beaufortain valley, making it possible for intermediates to cover some distance around the resulting 120km of groomed terrain. There are more demanding steeps, too, for those looking for something more challenging, plus two safe beginner areas within easy reach of the village.

Mountain access is via a choice of gondolas, the closest to the village and most of the visitor accommodation being the Montjoie lift. Further up the valley, close to the Baroque church of Notre-Dame de la Gorge, is a second gondola lift, along with a lift-pass office and a large, free car-parking area. The lifts converge on Etape 1470, where you can enjoy a mountain restaurant meal, take a chairlift serving a selection of gentle Blue runs, or hop on the Signal gondola lift for a haul up to 1900m, and a lot more possibilities (including an ESF ski-school area and another mountain restaurant).

Les Contamines is a ski area that spreads across 2 different regions- Savoie and Haute-savoie. Les Contamines offers the highest skiing (altitude terms) of the Evasion Mont Blanc domain.

The Gentianes Red piste drops into lifts serving Red, Blue and Black runs (plus some accessible off-piste) below the 2384m Aiguille de Roselette. Alternatively, you can take a Blue cruise to reach one of the gentler runs into the Hauteluce sector, continuing all the way down among sensational scenery to Belleville (1200m) if you wish, with three bar/restaurants along the way. A return gondola and chairlift ride will drop you at the Col du Joly (2000m), gateway to some of the steeper terrain below Aiguille Croche (with panoramic views from 2487m) and Veleray (2450m). Intermediates will enjoy the Red and Blue descents from the former, leaving Veleray’s draglift-served long Black-only runs for more hardcore skiers. All in all, the mountain is varied and entertaining, and at the end of the day it’s possible to ski (on a Red-graded piste) back to either starting point.

There’s more terrain on offer if you want it. Strict environmental controls rule out lift-linking to Megève, Saint Gervais and Combloux, but they’re included on the full Evasion Mont-Blanc lift pass, although you’ll need to take a bus or have your own transport to get there.

BEGINNERS

For beginners, there are 2 slopes for novice skiers in the resort centre. The slopes enable one to learn the basics. Each slope is equipped with a drag lift. These are not linked to the main ski area. There are more beginners' slopes at the top of the first pair of gondolas at the main ski area.

INTERMEDIATES & EXPERTS

For intermediates and experts the area above Signal has a network of chairlifts and draglifts which are located around a huge bowl providing 30+ generally red and black runs with a few blues thrown in too. You can also access the south facing Hauteluce area from some of the lifts here.

OFF-PISTE
For off-piste skiers, the diverse geographical aspects of the resort guarantee quality off-piste skiing. Powder on the Northern faces, heavier snow on the sunnier sides. Experience a varied number of snow conditions in the same day. Several off-piste descents offering a difference in height of up to 1300m throughout the season.

SNOWBOARDERS

For snowboarders, some good boarding can be found. Although there are a number of drags, you can generally access most of the key areas via chairlifts or gondola.

LES CONTAMINES PISTE MAP

To see the Les Contamines piste map for 11/12 please see the resort guide panel on the top right hand side of the current page.

LES CONTAMINES SNOW REPORTS

To see St Gervais snow reports please see the resort guide panel on the top right hand side of the current page.

Les Contamines Lift Passes

Save Time in resort and budget ahead by pre-booking lift passes. See below for prices.

Other lift pass on offer (to buy locally in resort in Euros):

For complete beginners (adults and children):

Draglifts of Loyers, Baby Nivorin, des Foyeres and gondola de la Gorge & Montjoie - €12.50/day.

Les Contamines ski pass – ½ day and daily rates:

½ day - €26 children, €30 adults

Day - €28 children, €34 adults

PRE-BOOK* your EVASION MONT BLANC LIFT PASS with PR

Prices being confirmed for winter 11/12. Bear with us.

Les Contamines Ski Schools

Prices being confirmed for winter 11/12. Bear with us.

Times and Schedules (ALL TIMES TO BE CONFIRMED, SUBJECT TO CHANGES).

Please note that lesson times are subject to change right until the last minute. Outside French school holidays the ski school reserves the right to cancel group lessons should numbers be insufficient. For peak periods (18/12-2/1, 13/2-13/3 & 9/4-24/4) we strongly recommend that you book as early as possible and in any case at least 6 weeks prior to the required dates. Morning lessons tend to get booked up first and therefore we may only be able to offer afternoon classes within 6 weeks of departure. In some resorts English speaking instructors may not always be available, particularly at peak times.

Les Contamines Individual Tuitions

(11/12 prices, NOT pre-bookable with PR)

Ecole du Ski Francais

BP 5 - 74170 Les Contamines-Montjoie

Tel. 33 (0)4 50 47 02 82

Fax 33 (0)4 50 47 19 49

www.esf-lescontamines.net

70 instructors, 9 of which are also qualified mountain guides are available to teach skiing, cross-country, snowboarding, biathlon or télémark.

1 or 2 people/hour 41€

3 or 4 people/hour 58.50€

Individual tuitions can only be purchased directly from the ski school. Peak Retreats cannot pre-book these.

Please note that prices are only an indication and are subject to change

Les Contamines Ski Hire

Ski hire in Les Contamines prices start from £37 for children (skis and boots) & £54 for adults (skis and boots) for 7 days. View here for Les Contamines ski hire prices

Mountain restaurants in Les Contamines

20 altitude restaurants in Evasion area (around 4 or 5 in Les Contamines local domain)

Cross-country in Les Contamines

The Nordic ski area in les Contamines covers 23 kilometres of groomed and signposted trails. The slopes open at the beginning of December due to artificial snow conditions.
Try cross-country skiing in an exceptional spot at the foot of Mont-Blanc. Discover the Roman church at Notre Dame de la Gorge.

Cross-country ski area :
3 slopes: classic and skating + 1 beginners slope for all the family (classic only)

Green slope “les Lacs” (classic) = 4 km

Blue slope “les Chapelles” = 6 km

Red slope “le Belvédère” = 8,5 km

Black slope for Biathlon = 3 km

The information centre is open from 09.00 to 16.30

Off-piste skiing in Les Contamines

Experienced skiers can try safe off-piste skiing in les Contamines or the surrounding resorts in the company of a professional guide.
Prices from 51 € for a half-day.
Prices non-inclusive of equipment and ski lift passes

Evening skiing in Les Contamines

A 2km floodlit slope is open every Wednesday evening from 18h00 to 20h00 (19h00 to 21h00 from February onwards). Free access.

Snow-Shoe itineraries in Les Contamines

Enjoy a selection of varied and pleasurable snow-shoe itineraries in the Montjoie Valley.
A map is available at the Tourist Information Office.

Guided excursions

Outings are organized every day. Choose from the following themes :

- Glaciers and the climate
- Knowledge of snow conditions
- Views of Mont-Blanc
- Evening outing
- The eyes of the ibex
- The nature reserve
- Village heritage
- Hello marmots

Free for children aged 8 to 14 accompanied by 2 adults.
Remember to wear good quality hiking boots (rental possible at the local sports shops).

Snowparks in Les Contamines

FUN AREAS

These special areas are reserved for amateurs of new sensations, both skiers & snowboarders.

The X-Zone* at the heart of the village is the spot for freestyle fans. The resort is extremely proud of its super-pipe, renowned for its World Cup status.

The X-Zone*, situated on the Tierces slope, at the top of the ski area, is composed of 2 boarder-cross (one for novice skiers and the second for the more experienced).

New Ludoparc*: a fun family circuit on the red Tierces slope.

*Depending on snow conditions

*ALL PRE-BOOKABLE EXTRAS ARE PAYABLE TO PEAK RETREATS IN STERLING PRIOR TO DEPARTURE. PRICES ARE IN £.

ANYTHING IN EUROS (€) WE ARE UNABLE TO PRE-BOOK AND

WILL BE PAYABLE LOCALLY.