The Désert d’en haut
Moutain chalets at the heart of your activities
Valmeinier 1800, where the two chalets are located, is the highest ski resort in the Maurienne. Domaine Galibier Thabor comprises the ski resorts of Valloire and Valmeinier, with five alpine slopes that are sunny all day long. 160 km are spread over 89 pistes of all levels, for beginners as well as experienced skiers, freestylers or snowboarders (www.valmeinier.com). The difference in altitude of these pistes is 1320 m (from 1430 to 2750 m), with 70% of the ski area above 2000 m. The area is well equipped with snow cannons and includes varied play areas. Another advantage is that there is hardly any waiting at the ski area's lifts. You can book your ski pass at www.skipass-valmeinier.com/fr/
Beautiful snowshoe hikes directly from the two chalets "1898" or "1904", with or without a guide, in the valley of Neuvache. You can go as far as the cross of Mathoset, Lac Vert or even the hut/Refuge de Terre Rouge (better not alone). Or you can walk among the trees on the other side of Valmeinier. The chairlifts Les Jeux (access at the mountain restaurant) and Roi can be used with snowshoes for further trails. The guide "Toponeige Cerces-Thabor-Ambin" shows you many possible ski tours from Valmeinier, directly from the hamlet.
Valmeinier is a family-friendly place for skiing and change of scene. Station 1800 is home to numerous shops with reasonable prices. Numerous ski hire companies, in particular Valmeinier Sport, who can offer you discounts (contact us). On request, the Spar supermarket will deliver your groceries by snowmobile. You will find good local products at the Ferme du Mont Thabor shop and many souvenirs at Ski M'plait; doctor and osteopath in Valmeinier 1800, pharmacy in Valloire. Numerous restaurants, don't forget to make a reservation if you want to have dinner at L'Élan (traditional cuisine) or at the Refuge des 3 Diables (fine and inventive cuisine). On the slopes, La Cabane d'en haut. right next to the microlight take-off, is a must. A friendly bowling alley, tapas bars, pub&club and the cinema welcome you in the evening.