St Francois Longchamp
Why St Francois Longchamp Ski Resort?
- Great value
- Easy access - the first resort you come to in the Maurienne Valley
- Friendly down-to-earth resort
St Francois Resort Information
Although largely undiscovered by British skiers, but Saint-François has plenty to appeal to families, who will appreciate its reassuring pistes, down-to-earth pricing, and easy road access.
Once you’re there, the architecture is mostly purpose-built, with the emphasis more on modern practicality than traditional authenticity. But things are improving and in winter it sits well enough within the bigger picture of a hauntingly beautiful bowl below the 2000m Col de la Madeleine, a famous ascent in the Tour de France.
The resort has surprisingly beautiful surroundings and outstanding scenery, with, among others, a view of Mont Blanc across to the Ecrins Massif.
Accommodation is spread between three relatively compact areas, the lowest of which (St François 1450) is connected by draglift to the gentle lower section of a blue-graded piste into Le Hameau de St François. The latter is a purpose-built apartment development which has a selection of essential services, plus convenient access to the pistes via a six-seater chairlift and a draglift, either of which will connect you via easy return pistes to the main villages of the 4 Vallées, Plan Mollaret and Longchamp 1650. Here the accommodation is spread around two modern chairlifts, with a pair of draglifts providing access to gentle cruising over to Le Hameau and St François 1450.
For entertainment and services life mostly revolves around the 1650 sector, which in addition to the ESF ski-school, bars and restaurants, also offers a good choice of equipment, food and local produce outlets plus child-care (age-groups from three months to 12 years), cash-point, post office and more. The range of mountain activities includes cross-country skiing, parapenting, snowshoeing and dogsledding, while the Forum des Eaux aqua/fitness centre offers a range of relaxation and wellbeing facilities and treatments.
Access-wise, the A43 Autoroute from Chambéry and Albertville is just 12km away, as is the TGV train station, for high-speed rail services from Paris (with scheduled bus transfers).
Peak Retreats features apartments, hotels and chalets in St Francois Longchamp. This wide selection of accommodation has been hand-picked in order to provide an ideal base for a St Francois Longchamp ski holiday.
ST FRANCOIS LONGCHAMP SKI AREA
As well as being near neighbours, Saint-François-Longchamp and Valmorel fit together very neatly, and between them manage to offer sufficiently varied terrain to appeal to most levels of skier. The altitudes on offer (1300-2550m) might not be the highest, but the geographical location attracts dependable snowfalls, and some 315 snow-cannon help maintain snow quality on key runs.
The Soleil Rouge chair now accesses the area between the Lune Bleue lift and Marquis, taking you to more than 2300m, with a blue run and a red run.
A Grand Domaine lift-pass allows you to cross into the Valmorel sector (in the Massif de la Tarentaise) and expand your options dramatically. The combined area adds up to a respectable 165km of pistes, spread across 3600 hectares.
Additional ski fact info, main ski info in resort facts box at top of page
St Francois Longchamp only - 65km of pistes, 16 lifts, 34 slopes:
Green slopes: 10
Blue slopes: 13
Red slopes: 8
Black slopes: 3
140 snow cannons on 10 pistes over 9km
ST FRANCOIS LONGCHAMP SKIING
ST FRANCOIS LONGCHAMP BEGINNERS
Of the two destinations, Saint-François possesses much the higher proportion of gentle pistes, making this the logical choice for young families and first-timers (and it’s worth noting, too, that Saint-François is an established HandiSki centre for skiers with a disability). With this in mind, it’s been well thought-out; take whatever lift you like and you’ll be able to cruise gently right back down on wide, green-graded pistes, or in the case of St François 1450, the gentlest of blue runs. Some of them are quite long, too, which not only allows time to enjoy the dazzling scenery but also helps build both confidence and fitness.
ST FRANCOIS LONGCHAMP INTERMEDIATES
There are also wide, blue-graded cruisers on the St Francois Longchamp side. Valmorel’s own terrain is mostly blue-graded (although there are many green and red pistes too).
ST FRANCOIS LONGCHAMP EXPERTS
There are some not-too-demanding red runs plus three black pistes – all of them on the Saint-François side of the mountain. There’s worthwhile off-piste to explore and a handful of black-graded pistes includes some highly-rated runs with dependable snow-quality in Valmorel.
And in addition to Le Grand Domaine’s downhill terrain, there are seven snowparks, some 50km of groomed routes for cross-country skiers and walkers, plus opportunities to experience the adrenalin surge of speedriding.
St Francois Ski Hire (Pre-bookable)
Pre-book your St Francois Longcamp ski hire with Peak Retreats.
View here for pre-bookable ski extra prices in £ for St Francois 2018/19
Please note, these Pound Sterling prices are for indication only. They will fluctuate based on Euro/£ exchange rate. Please call us for the latest prices.
Special offers: *7 days for the price of 6. Free Skis/snowboard & boots (Blue/Red) for party leaders of groups of 10 or more all taking equipment. 1 Free helmet per child aged 6 and under for every adult booking skis or snowboards & boots (must be under same booking reference and requested on form above). Other duration prices on request - Cross Country ski prices on request.
Find out more about Peak Retreats ski hire
St Francois Ski Passes (Pre-bookable)
Pre-book your St Francois Longchamp lift passes with Peak Retreats. Find out more about Peak Retreats ski passes
View here for pre-bookable ski extra prices in £ for St Francois 2018/19
Please note, these Pound Sterling prices are for indication only. They will fluctuate based on Euro/£ exchange rate. Please call us for the latest prices.
Other lift pass on offer (to buy locally in resort in Euros):
Saint Francois Longchamp ski pass – ½ day and daily rates 2017/18:
Half day - €22.40-28/child, €28.40/adult
Full day - €28.40-32.50/child, €36.50/adult
Mini pass - 2017/18:
Ideal for complete beginners:
Drag lifts - Slalom, Sapin, Clochettes
€20.60/adult or child
St Francois Ski School (Pre-bookable)
Pre-book your St Francois Longchamp ESF ski school with Peak Retreats. Find out more about Peak Retreats ski school
View here for pre-bookable ski extra prices in £ for St Francois 2018/19
Please note, these Pound Sterling prices are for indication only. They will fluctuate based on Euro/£ exchange rate. Please call us for the latest prices.
Ski School: 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 (22/12-4/1, 9/2-8/3 & 6/4-26/4) 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.
We cannot always guarantee that prices will be cheaper than in resort. When ski packs prices are calculated, the currency is bought at the exchange rates that apply at the time. You can be assured that once you have booked your extras, if the pound depreciates, you will not be charged more for your ski packs, enabling you to budget for your holiday in advance.
St Francois Individual Tuition (2017/18 prices, NOT pre-bookable)
Individual tuitions can only be purchased directly from the ski school. Peak Retreats cannot pre-book these. Prices per instructor, not per person.
1 hour: 1-2 pers - €46-53, 3-5 pers - €60-67.50
1 hour 30: 1-2 pers - €69-79.50, 3-5 pers - €90-101
Please note that prices are only an indication and are subject to change.
Ski school St Francois contact number for private lessons:
Tel: +33 (0)4 79 59 1073 or info@esf-saintfrancois.com
St Francois Longchamp Child Care
Kindergarden'Club Lutins
Children aged 3 months to 12 years (CHILDCARE WITHOUT SKIING)
The "Maison des Enfants" gathers all children clubs (Lutins - 3 months to 3 years, Marmottes - 3 to 6 years, and Cabris - 6 to 12 years) and is located near the Tourism Office and near the principal ski lessons meeting place "Lauzière".
La Maison des Enfants
Children can play and relax through activities and various games. Fun and games for your youngsters and rest and relaxation for mums.
Located at the Tourism Office with entrance at the uphill side and just near the main ski meeting place (Lauzière).
800 m2 on two levels, adapted and colored rooms with large interior games. Children may play and relax through well adapted games and various activities.
La"Maison des Enfants" is certified by state governing bodies. (Direction de la vie sociale et DDJS)
Virtual visit - http://www.enimages.net/visites/savoie/st-francois/garderie-autonome/visite.html?pano=visite10.xml
From 9.00 am to 5.30 pm all season long except on Saturdays. Reductions on week rates for families with several children.
Phone during the season: 33 (0)4 79 59 15 60 (Fax : 33 (0)4 79 20 48 01)
E mail: associationclubenfants@wanadoo.fr
Medical certificate is required stating that the chidren can be looked at in a nursery environment with child'health booket.
Prices 15/16:
6 mornings from 8.45 am to 12.00 pm 99,00 €
6 afternoons from 1.30 pm to 5.30 pm 121,50 €
6 lunch time from 12.00 am to 2.00 pm (meal to be provided) 62,00 €
6 days (meal to be provided) 226,00 €
6 mornings + 12.00 -2.00 pm (meal to be provided) 155,00 €
6 afternoons + 12.00 pm - 2.00 pm (meal to be provided) 175,50 €
1 morning from 8.45 am to 12.00 pm 28,50 €
1 lunch time from 12.00 pm to 2.00 pm (meal to be provided) 15,00 €
1 afternoon from 1.30 pm to 5.30 pm 33,50 €
1 day (meal to be provided) 70,50 €
St Francois Longchamp Resort Activities
St Francois Longchamp Dog sledging
Dog sleigh riding with gregory
St Francois Longchamp
tel: 0033 6.62.35.12.62
gregorygabanou@gmail.com
St Francois Longchamp Paragliding / first flight
St Francois Longchamp
tel: 0033 6.85.83.46.92
lafilledelair@live.fr
http://www.lafilledelair.sitew.com
St Francois Longchamp Spa & Wellness Center
Plan Mollaret
MONTGELLAFREY
Tel: 0033 4 79 20 27 25
info@centredebalneo.com
http://www.centredebalneotherapie.fr
St Francois Longchamp Bar Bowling
Area "Plan Mollaret"
Balneotherapy Center invites you to its bowling bar to relax. It is a warm and friendly place to entertain. In case of inclement weather, the Bowling Bar may open earlier in the day.
Open everydays from 14.00 to 01.00 hour.
St Francois Longchamp Cinema
At 1650m.
St Francois Longchamp Snowshoeing
RANDO-EVASION
ST FRANCOIS LONGCHAMP
Tel: 0033 608 00 1968
guillemin-laurent@wanadoo.fr
Snowshoeing half day or full day, Nordic walking, night hikes and meals ...
Pedestrian access to chair lifts:
La Lune Bleue, Le Marquis and Les Clochettes.
Please note: All the above information is for information only. For the most up-to-date information please visit the resort tourist office website. All prices for activities are in local currency (€ Euros) and are bookable and payable locally in resort
Tourist Office of Saint Francois Longchamp and Montgellafrey
Immeuble Salle Polyvalente
73130ST FRANCOIS LONGCHAMP
Tel: +33(4) 79 59 10 56
Fax: +33(4) 79 59 17 23
St Francois Longchamp Ski Activities
St Francois Longchamp Cross country skiing
For cross country skiing, head up to the Grand Coin Nordic area (situated 12km from Saint-François Longchamp). Access is via the charming village of Montaimont (you must continue past the centre of the village up to the Bonvillard parking which is found at the end of the road). There are 40km of marked trails which pass through pine tree forests and snow covered meadows, gently heading up to the Col du Chaussy.
St Francois Longchamp Resort News and Events 2018/19
Events:
- French Ski Cross - Saturday 2 February 2019 between 9 AM and 3 PM
- The Lekkarod, dog sledding race - From Monday 18 to Tuesday 19 March 2019 - LEKKAROD is a long distance race with several stages, among which three taking place in Saint-François Longchamp
- Ski Cross Europa Cup - From Wednesday 30 January to Friday 1st of February 2019 - for one week, Saint François Longchamp will live at the rhythm of one of the finest ski competition in Europe. The greatest champions will be there for the Savoyard stage European circuit
- “The Little Mischiefs Festival” - 8-10th April 2019 - kids festival
Further details on be found on the tourist office website: www.saintfrancoislongchamp.com
St Francois Longchamp Après-Ski, Bars & Restaurants
Restaurants Altitude
La Banquise 2000
L’Alpage
La Petite Bergerie
Les 2 Mazots
Bars/nightclubs in St Francois Longchamp
LA GROTTE DU YETI
The best after ski of the resort
LE MACKENZIE
LOCATED AT 1650M
Resort 1650m - Building "Le Montjoie"
Various restaurants across St Francois Longchamp
AU DESCENDEUR
Located at 1650m
Restaurant Bar and Pizzeria Savoyard specialties: open daily
Phone 04.79.59.17.28
AU RESTAURANT DE LA PERELLE
Area "Plan Mollaret"
For lunch, enjoy a breathtaking view and enjoy our cuisine specialities, grilled over a wood fire, buffet at 19 €
Evening: Savoyard specialities, traditional cooking and semi-gastro
04.79.59.12.27
Reservations highly recommended
Open daily from 12 am to 11 pm non-stop!
CREPERIE DU VAL BLANC
Located at 1650m
L'IGLOO
Area "Plan Mollaret"
Snack / Pizzeria Plan Mollaret. Take away, they offer our burgers at noon, and American pizzas. For evening, remember to book your pizza by phone, you can then pick them up or they order them by delivery (free from 20 € of purchase).
Open daily from 11:30am to 10pm
LA BRASSERIE MONTAGNE
Located at 1650m
Lunch: Special ski! Sun terrace close to the slopes at 1650m. In front of snow garden and chair lift of La Lune Bleue ...
10 meals under 15 minutes / less than 10 €.
The evening version cocoon, panoramic veranda, sunset on the slopes and beautiful card.
More information at 04 79 59 11 02
LA GODILLE
Located at 1650m
Located on the slopes, the restaurant "La Godille" accompanies you throughout your days. Breakfasts. Lunch: self service, dish of the day, pizzas, paninis, fries ... Evening: Savoyard specialities, pizzeria, grill.
Enjoy at any time the sun terrace and solarium accessible on skis. Hot drinks, draft beer and pancakes, not to mention meals and takeaway pizza.
LA GRANGE
Area "Plan Mollaret"
In the shopping mall of the residence "Les 4 Vallées", the Bar Restaurant "La Grange" welcomes you in a mountain setting with the charm of erstwhile, its fireplace, sun terrace facing south. Cooking of the old tradition, with dishes and menus Savoyards.
Access on skis by the chair lift Mollaret. Snacks for lunch. Pancake house in the afternoon. Pizzas and takeaway.
LA LOUCHE PERCEE
Area "Plan Mollaret"
Warm and typically Savoyard atmosphere.
Wine tasting every Tuesday from 5pm to 6pm.
Open daily from 10am to midnight.
Discover local specialities, especially various fondues, raclette ramp with his cheese cauldron, Charolais entrecote (approx 300g) but also a fine selection of wines of Savoy and elsewhere at reasonable prices. Bottles or a glass of wine, also offer tastings every Tuesday from 5pm to 6pm. The afternoon of bad weather, warm yourself around a game of chess or card (belotte, tarot, ...)
LE GALTA
Located at 1650m
To eat in or on the terrace for lunch and dinner with our Savoyard specialities: fondue, raclette, tartiflette ... hot sandwiches, meats XL, our homemade burgers on or off the premises, prime rib for two, the famous Savoyard stew, farcement of Savoy.
But for sweet pancakes in the afternoon, the Happy Hour after ski (7 beers at half price) for the sport on the big ECAN, to enjoy a single malt Whiskey.
St Francois Longchamp Amenities
St Francois Longchamp is served by a range of amenities including: Spar, Sherpa, sports shops, regional products, boulangerie, patisserie, pharmacy, tabac, post office.
Getting to Saint Francois Longchamp, France
Access-wise, the A43 Autoroute from Chambéry and Albertville is just 12km away, as is the Gare TGV, for high-speed rail services from Paris (with scheduled bus transfers).
Motorway:
SFL is the first resort of Maurienne valley in term of accessibility.
Highway A43 Exit n°26 "la chambre"
(12kms only from the resort)
Caution, Madelaine pass is closed during winter.
Rail:
High speed train from Paris.
Station: Saint avre La chambre (12 km).
Public bus: Ben's Bus run ski transfers from Grenoble Airport to St Francois Longchamp every Saturday.
By plane:
Geneva (170kms) - www.gva.ch/en
Lyon St Exupery (165 kms) - www.lyonairport.com
Chambery Aix les Bains (90kms) - www.chambery-airport.com
Public shuttle bus transfers from airports
Lyon Airport - St Francois Longchamp via St Arve (www.lys-altibus.com).
Chambery Airport - St Francois Longchamp via St Arve (www.lys-altibus.com).
St Francois Longchamp Airport Transfer
For pre-bookable private transfer rates with Peak Retreats, view here.
St Francois Longchamp resort season dates
Grand Domaine (Valmorel, Doucy, St Francois Longchamp) ski area is open: Saturday 22/12/18 - 13/04/19 (this is with connections)
Doucy - 22/12/18 - 14/04/19
Valmorel - 22/12/18 - 14/04/19
(Celliers - 22/12/18 - 07/04/19)