Venosc – The historical mountain village with an XXL ski area Deux Alpes/Venosc (900 m)

The traditional alpine village of Venosc, on the southern edge of “Les Deux Alpes” ski area, is like something straight out of a picture book. Situated at an altitude of 950m, directly below Les Deux Alpes’ main ski station, Venosc is the ideal retreat for holidaymakers wanting to steer clear of the crowded tourist hotspots, without forgoing access to top-class skiing facilities. The historical buildings of the small village, once occupied by mountain farmers, are spread across the southern slopes of the Vénéon valley, and form a picturesque alpine haven, true to its heritage in every respect. A walk through some of Venosc’s backstreets and narrow alleyways will reveal a variety of local craftsmanship, presented in a delightful selection of quaint shops.

Since the construction of the cable car between Venosc and Les Deux Alpes in 1972, the village not only offers an authentic alpine atmosphere, but also a direct link to Europe’s largest glacier-based ski area. This link was further strengthened by the opening of a new gondola cableway in 1995, making sure Les Deux Alpes is fully and easily accessible to skiers staying in Venosc.

A world of winter sports right on the doorstep

After having arrived at the ski centre of Les Deux Alpes, snow-lovers will find themselves amidst a huge variety of 93 ski runs, ranging from those that are perfectly suited for beginners, right through to some very challenging black-graded deep powder runs. Thanks to the location of Deux Alpes on the glacier, excellent snow conditions are a given, even in summer.

Les Deux Alpes has become a place of pilgrimage for snowboarders. Its popularity can be partly attributed to the impressive “freeride” area, but also in no small way to its enormous snow park, which, located at an altitude of 2600m, is among the best in all of France. Whether beginner or seasoned boarder, there is something here to make anyone’s heart beat that tiny bit faster. A fleet of “Park Bullies”, a “Pipe Magician”, a Zaug “Pipe Shaper” and a “Turbine” are all on hand to create an exciting environment for boarders to enjoy. The network of meticulously maintained runs across Les Deux Alpes provides plenty of space for beginners and freestyle-specialists alike to let loose.

To complete its impressive catalogue of facilities, Les Deux Alpes also offers floodlit runs, a “boardercross” run, and three cross-country runs totalling a distance of 25 kilometres.

Hotel-style comfort, with added character

Venosc truly allows its visitors to immerse themselves in the charm of an authentic mountain village. Former farmer’s dwellings have been renovated and transformed into quaint holiday homes and a total of five restaurants. Visitors can sample local honey, cheeses and meats, or browse shops full of handmade jewellery, leather bags and woodwork.

Those looking for an alternative to the ski runs will find Venosc to be the perfect base from which to explore the surrounding Ecrins National Park, the largest National Park in France. One of Venosc’s more unique attractions, donkey-drawn sled rides, is an absolutely unforgettable way to explore the spectacular landscape.