A complete guide to Montgenèvre

Montgenèvre, a resort rich in history and natural beauty, sits right on the French-Italian border. With origins dating back to pre-Roman times, it has long been a significant passage between the two countries. Today, Montgenèvre stands out as a picturesque and idyllic French village, enjoying an impressive 300 days of sunshine annually.

As one of the sunniest ski resorts in France, Montgenèvre offers a unique blend of history and charm. Here's a practical guide we've put together just for you, filled with insider tips and essential info to help you plan the perfect Montgenèvre ski holiday. You'll learn everything you need to know, from its location to its ski areas, snow history, and the best spots to grab a bite or relax after skiing. At the end, we've also included the resort map, plus some handy contact numbers and links.

Let's get started!

Montgenèvre, France - overview

1. Where is Montgenèvre?
2. Montgenèvre the resort
3. Montgenèvre ski area
4. Skiing in Montgenèvre
5. Montgenèvre ski season dates
6. Montgenèvre snow history
7. Restaurants in Montgenèvre
8. Things to do in Montgenèvre
9. Montgenèvre après-ski, and nightlife
10. Montgenèvre resort map
11. Practical information

Where is Montgenèvre?

Montgenèvre is situated near the town of Briançon, in the Hautes-Alpes department of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, right on the French-Italian border.

Nearest airport

• Chambéry (158 km)

Transfer time

• Chambéry (2hr)

Montgenèvre the resort

• Resort altitude: 1850 m
• Resort permanent residents: 510

Montgenèvre holds the distinction of being France’s oldest ski resort, with its origins dating back to 1907. Rich in history and culture, Montgenèvre's past seamlessly blends with its present, evident in landmarks that reflect its heritage. The village's architecture, drawing inspiration from traditional Italian designs, is typified by the iconic church tower with its “fanal,” which serves as a symbolic beacon for travelers navigating through fog or snowstorms. The village center, adorned with traditional French-style buildings complete with shutters and wooden balconies, beautifully merges historical charm with modernity, making it an ideal destination for families. The resort offers a range of accommodations, from quaint boutique hotels to stylish, upmarket self-catered apartments, many featuring ski-in-ski-out access. The village’s main thoroughfare is home to a variety of bars, restaurants, and shops, all complemented by top-notch ski equipment hire services.
                                                                                                           

Pros	Cons
Family-friendly	Slow lift network
Snow-sure resort	Very few black runs for advanced skiers
Uncrowded slopes even during peak season	Poor apres ski scene
Perfect for beginner and intermediate skiers	Lack of non-skiing activities

Here is what it's like at the Montgenèvre resort

(Ref: Montgenevre Officiel)

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Montgenèvre ski area

• Summit elevation: 2700 m
• Kilometres of pistes: 100 km (400 km - Milky Way)
• Vertical drop: 850 m
• Ski lifts: 38

Montgenèvre sits within the expansive Milky Way area, offering over 400 km of pistes, including 100 km of diverse terrain within Montgenèvre itself. The resort has 88 pistes, catering to all skill levels, featuring 7 green, 25 blue, 38 red, and 18 black runs, all connected by a network of 38 lifts.

Montgenèvre's ski area is divided into several key sectors:

1. Le Chalvet: Renowned for its sunny disposition, this area is a favorite among beginners and intermediates, offering a variety of green and blue runs, along with some more challenging red pistes.
2. Les Gondrans: This sector is known for its stunning views and diverse slopes, including leisurely blue runs and more demanding red and black runs.
3. L'Aigle: Characterized by a mix of terrain that appeals to intermediate and advanced skiers, the runs in the Aigle sector are known for featuring a combination of open areas and more sheltered runs.

Skiing in Montgenèvre

Beginners

For those new to skiing, Montgenèvre's nursery area, conveniently located near the resort center, is an excellent starting point. Beginners can also enjoy easy greens leading back to the village from the Les Godrans lift, ensuring a smooth transition from learning basics to exploring the slopes.

Intermediates

The resort is interconnected with the Milky Way ski area, providing intermediate skiers with ample opportunities to explore varied blue and red pistes. The Chalvet sector, in particular, offers diverse terrain, including over classified blacks and narrow wooded runs, perfect for those looking to improve their skills.

Advanced

Montgenèvre provides thrilling challenges for advanced skiers, especially in areas like Col de l'Alpet, or the Rocher de l'Aigle.

Snowboarding

Snowboarders of all levels will enjoy Montgenèvre's snow park located in the Gondrans sector which includes two freestyle lines, 5 different boxes and 5 natural snow jumping modules.

Montgenèvre ski season dates

The ski season in Montgenèvre for 2024/25 is expected to start on December 2nd and run until April 14th, though dates may vary depending on snow conditions. If you're planning a ski holiday to Montgenèvre this season, be sure to explore our Montgenèvre ski deals for the best ski offers available.

Montgenèvre snow history

Montgenèvre boasts excellent snow conditions from December to April, offering skiers distinct advantages each month. In December and January, the resort receives around 20 cm and 18 cm of snowfall, respectively, spread over approximately 2.5 days weekly, guaranteeing consistently fresh powder. Although February sees a slight reduction in snow depth to 17 cm, it compensates with more frequent snow days, averaging 3.0 per week. March marks the peak of the season with the first week being the most prolific, delivering a substantial 29 cm of snow across 3.6 days, ideal for those who revel in Bluebird Powder Days, characterized by sunny skies and light breezes following fresh snowfalls. The season continues into April, maintaining pleasant skiing conditions with 11 cm of snow falling over 2.5 days, creating perfect conditions for enjoying softer snow in sunnier weather.

                                                                                                                                                                   

Month	Snow amount (week)	Snow days (week)
December	20 cm	2.7 days
January	18 cm	2.5 days
February	17 cm	3.0 days
March	18 cm	3.1 days
April	11 cm	2.5 days

(Ref: snow-forecast.com)

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Where to eat in Montgenèvre

Mountain restaurants

Les Terrasses

This is a popular mountain restaurant in Montgenèvre, known for its spectacular views and sun-soaked terrace. It offers a delightful range of local and international dishes, providing the perfect spot for a mid-ski break to refuel and relax.

Le Refuge

A charming restaurant with a cozy ambiance, nestled on the slopes of Montgenèvre. It serves traditional Alpine cuisine, making it an ideal spot for those seeking an authentic mountain dining experience with hearty, comforting dishes.

Resort restaurants

Le Transalpin

This restaurant stands out for its unique blend of French and Italian cuisines, reflecting the cross-border nature of Montgenèvre. The restaurant is known for its inviting atmosphere and delicious meals, perfect for a cozy dinner.

Les Chalmettes

This is a quaint restaurant offering a selection of traditional dishes. Its warm and welcoming environment makes it a favorite among both locals and visitors looking to savor the flavors of the region.

Pizzeria Restaurant des Escartons

This pizzeria is a go-to for those craving Italian flavors. It serves a range of delicious pizzas and Italian dishes, making it a perfect choice for a relaxed and satisfying meal.

Things to do in Montgenèvre

• Cinema
• Museum
• Monty Express Luge
• Sledging
• Heritage tours
• Balneotherapy & spa
• Ski Joering
• Snowmobiling
• Snowshoeing
• Winter hiking

Montgenèvre après-ski and nightlife

Exit Pub

Exit Pub is known for its lively après ski scene. It’s a great place to unwind after a day on the slopes, offering a variety of drinks and a fun, energetic atmosphere.

Bar à vin Ô Tour de France

This wine bar is perfect for those looking to enjoy a more sophisticated après ski experience. It boasts a selection of fine wines, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and conversation.

Graal Café

This is a popular après ski destination in Montgenèvre, known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse drink options. It’s a great place to socialize and recap your day on the slopes.

Rois Mages

Rois Mages offers a warm and welcoming après ski environment. Known for its good selection of drinks and friendly service, it’s a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the evening.

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Montgenèvre resort map

Download Montgenèvre resort map here

Practical information

• Tourist office website: Montgenevre T.O
• Tourist office phone: +33(0) 492215252
• For visa & passport travel advice, visit here