Serre Chevalier

• 250km of varied mainly north or north-east facing terrain with something for all levels

• Strong intermediate focus with excellent cruising and long descents

• Mix of sheltered forest runs and high-altitude skiing for all conditions

Beginners

Serre Chevalier is very accessible for beginners. There are nursery slopes at mid-mountain level (at Serre Ratier and Grand Alpe for example) and green runs lead back to village level in Chantemerle, where there is also a dedicated beginner area at the bottom of the slopes. A newer high-altitude beginner area has a 150m covered magic carpet, giving a good opportunity to practise first turns on the gentle slope of the Méa plateau.

Wide green runs and gentle progression zones make it easy to build confidence, while the newer higher altitude beginner area is part of an adaptation strategy to allow for good snow conditions for learning in future seasons and to reduce the need for artificial snow.

Intermediates

Intermediates will get the most out of Serre Chevalier. The area is known for its long blue and red cruising runs, many of which wind through larch forests. The Vauban red run is definitely one for the must-do list on a week’s trip.

The variety of terrain and an efficient lift system mean you can ski across a large part of the domain without repeating runs, and the mix of gradients keeps things interesting. It’s an ideal destination for building mileage in a relaxed setting.

Advanced

Advanced skiers have plenty to explore, with a good selection of red and black runs and extensive off-piste terrain.

The famous Luc Alphand Olympic black run provides a challenging descent back to Chantemerle. It’s 6km long and descends 1000m vertical. The wider area offers significant freeride and off piste opportunities, both high up and in the tree-lined terrain above Villeneuve and Chantemerle.

Ski tourers have safe, permanently marked trails in both the Villeneuve and Monetier sectors. The uphill trails are in the forest, away from the downhill ski slopes, but with easy “escape” routes to runs if needed. For the descent, you can either use the ski runs when the pistes are open, or go off-piste.

Mountain fun zones

Serre Chevalier includes snowparks, boardercross areas and playful forest trails, adding variety to the skiing.

These zones make it appealing to a wide range of skiers and snowboarders, from beginners to more experienced riders.

Nordic skiing

The resort also has an impressive Nordic offering, stretching across the area between Chantemerle to the Lauteret pass, with around 45km of trails along the valley.

These loops range from those graded green (for beginners) to longer advanced trails. They pass through scenic landscapes, making them ideal for a quieter day exploring the surroundings. The Colombiers site in Chantemerle is free to access and a good way for beginners to learn in a safe environment.

The cross-country offering also boasts a 24 target Biathlon stadium, which is certified for European Cup events.

• Wide range of outdoor and adventure activities beyond skiing

• Strong emphasis on mountain exploration and unique experiences

• Great mix of high-energy and relaxing options

Adventure activities

Serre Chevalier offers a wide variety of adrenaline activities including snowkiting, fat biking, ice climbing and mountain karting, which you can try on a 2km course with a 300m vertical descent. Try it in a mountain kart (a bit like a go-kart) or on a Mountain Bob sledge.

Snooc combines ski touring and sledging. Serre Chevalier is a pioneer resort for Snooc. Going up, the skier wears two special skis with bindings and seal-skins. At the top, he takes off skins and bindings, stack the skis one on top of the other, fits the seat and suspension in just a few minutes, and sits on the sledge to enjoy the ride down!

The terrain and environment make it particularly well suited to those looking for something different beyond traditional skiing.

Fun and family activities

There are plenty of family-friendly options such as sledging runs, snowshoeing trails, a ‘giant’ 1.1km zip wire and dog sledding. The Deval’bob sledge run (suitable for children over 12) is 4km long with a 573m vertical descent through a beautiful forest of larches.

Unique activities like ski-joering, where you are pulled along on skis or on a sledge, on specially prepared tracks behind a horse, add something memorable, making it easy to create varied days for mixed groups.

Relaxation and wellness

The thermal spa in Monêtier-les-Bains is one of the highlights of the resort.

Soaking in warm outdoor pools under the stars with views of the mountains is a standout experience and a perfect way to relax after a day on the slopes.

Heritage

It’s worth taking the time to visit Briançon as part of your stay in Serre-Chevalier. This fortified town is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

• Good range of restaurants and bars spread across different villages

• Après-ski varies depending on where you stay in the valley

• Well-equipped with shops and services for self-catered stays

Dining options

Serre Chevalier offers a good choice of restaurants across its villages, from casual mountain eateries to more traditional Alpine dining. We had one of our most memorable mountain meals in a little family run restaurant in one of the hamlets that make up the resort.

Local specialities and simple, hearty meals are the focus, with enough variety to suit most tastes across a week’s stay.

Après-ski atmosphere

Après-ski here is varied rather than intense. Some areas offer lively bars and entertainment, while others are much quieter and more relaxed.

It’s not a major party destination, which suits those looking for a more balanced or low-key evening scene.

Shops and amenities

The resort has a good range of shops including mini-supermarkets, bakeries and ski shops.

Each village has its own set of facilities, making it easy to stay self-catered while having everything you need within reach.