Val Cenis

• Around 125km of varied pistes with strong beginner and intermediate focus

• 6-day lift passes offer a day in nearby resorts for added variety and different terrain

• Long scenic runs and uncrowded slopes ideal for relaxed skiing

Beginners

Val Cenis is one of the best resorts for beginners. With over 15 green runs (many between resort level and 2000m) and plenty of gentle terrain. The majority of runs back to resort are green. It provides a safe and confidence building environment.

The standout feature is the Escargot run, at 10km it’s one of the longest green runs in Europe. This allows beginners to explore the mountain while still skiing at their own pace. It also links with other pistes, meaning you can shorten or extend your run depending on confidence.

The quiet slopes make a huge difference, helping beginners feel comfortable and progress quickly without pressure.

Intermediates

Intermediates are very well catered for, with the majority of the ski area made up of blue and red runs. There’s plenty of variety, including tree lined slopes lower down and more open terrain higher up. A highlight is the Canopée des Cîmes viewpoint over the Lac du Mont Cenis at the top of the ski area.

The link with Termignon adds even more choice, including long cruising runs through forests that are particularly enjoyable in poor visibility. The red runs above Termignon and the blue Forestière run right down to Termignon village are highlights. Many skiers find they can cover a lot of ground without encountering crowds or queues.

Advanced

Although advanced skiing is limited, there’s some great north-facing off-piste terrain and two freeride circuits. Don’t miss the ungroomed Michèle Jacot run and the Moraine slope where you will find powder and bumps. Overall, however, the resort is not heavily focused on expert piste skiing.

For more challenge, the off-piste above the adjacent village of Bonneval-sur-Arc is great. You can also access the 3 Valleys via the back door by taking the cable car from Orelle (just 30 minutes drive along the valley from Val Cenis) over into Val Thorens, this makes for a great option for those who want more extensive expert terrain.

Mountain fun zones

There are fun slopes and family-friendly features, including themed runs and playful areas like the “Mickey Mouse” slope, which are especially popular with children and beginner skiers. There are also two boardercross.

Nordic skiing

There are 29km of trails in the Val d’Ambin Nordic area which is accessed by a free shuttle bus. This area offers panoramic views of the Vanoise National Park. The Monolithe Nordic area, between Val Cenis Sardières and Aussois, a 15 minute walk or a short shuttle bus ride away, adds another 39km of trails. Nearby areas of the Maurienne Valley offers excellent Nordic skiing, particularly around Bessans and Bonneval sur Arc, with extensive trails and scenic valley routes.

• Wide range of family-friendly and outdoor mountain activities

• Strong focus on accessible, fun experiences for all ages

• Great mix of relaxation and adventure beyond skiing

Family activities and childcare

Val Cenis is particularly strong for families, offering a wide range of options for younger children. Ski school starts from the age of 3, and kindergarten sessions can be combined with ski lessons for a seamless experience.

Dog sledding is a particularly special activity and takes place on the plateau at the top of the Ramasse gondola amongst stunning landscapes. There are a plethora of sledging related activities such as Snake Gliss (a ‘train’ of connected sledges driven by an instructor), a 900m long toboggan run, and a toboggan run that is open selected evenings, Yooner, snow tubing and snowscooting and snow kiting. There’s something for all ages and add appeal for families looking for something different after skiing.

Outdoor mountain experiences

There’s plenty to explore beyond the pistes, including snowshoeing, ice climbing and ski touring. The surrounding landscape is ideal for scenic exploration, with beautiful viewpoints and panoramic spots across the valley. The Val d’Ambin Nordic area is popular with winter walkers with its groomed trails and for snowshoeing with numerous itineraries. Routes can take you to the Maurienne Valley’s oldest church, Saint-Pierre d’Extravache. A 60m Himalayan footbridge 100m above a river is a thrilling way to get to viewpoints, from where you can admire the Glacenost icefall that forms in January and February.

A visit to nearby Bonneval sur Arc is highly recommended, whether for skiing, ice climbing or simply exploring one of France’s most picturesque villages.

Relaxation and indoor activities

Facilities such as swimming pools, leisure centres, bowling alleys and wellness areas provide a great way to unwind after skiing, especially for families with younger children.

Cultural activities like farm visits, a tour of the Beaufort cheese making cooperative and local heritage trails add another dimension to the holiday experience, offering insight into life in the valley.

• Good range of restaurants with traditional Alpine cuisine

• Relaxed après-ski focused on socialising rather than nightlife

• Well-equipped villages with everything needed for self-catering

Dining options

Val Cenis offers a strong selection of restaurants, from casual cafés to traditional Savoyard dining. Many places focus on local produce, with hearty dishes like tartiflette and regional cheeses widely available.

Mountain restaurants are often highlighted for their quality, with many visitors noting they exceed expectations compared to other resorts. On the way back to resort, the Creperie des Glaces (near the bottom of the Escargot piste) is highly recommended by our team for an afternoon treat after a day on the slopes.

Après-ski atmosphere

Après-ski is calm and family-friendly. You’ll find bars and cafés for a relaxed drink or hot chocolate after skiing, but nightlife is limited.

This suits the overall feel of the resort, where evenings are more about unwinding than partying.

Shops and local life

The villages offer a good range of shops including supermarkets, bakeries and local food stores. Because it’s a year-round community, the quality and variety of produce is often better than in purely seasonal resorts.

Everything is easily accessible, making self-catering simple and convenient.