Montalbert – ski village of La Plagne Montalbert (1350 m)

In contrast to the ultra-modern ski centres higher up in La Plagne, which date from the 1960s, Montalbert is a small resort which has managed to preserve the authentic charm of a traditional mountain village. Situated at 1,350 metres amidst the larch and pine woods so typical of this area, the resort’s architecture is perfectly in keeping with the traditional wood and stone buildings found in Montalbert itself and the classic layout, with a mix of historic and modern buildings clustered around the village’s 17th century Baroque church, has also been retained.

Montalbert became a ski resort in the 1970s when the first lifts were built and the village became part of the La Plagne ski area. Skiers staying in Montalbert are now just 3 lift journeys away from Aime La Plagne from where they can access any part of the vast Paradiski ski area.

Downhill run for deep snow fans

Skiers who decide to “just” ski in La Plagne can choose from a total of 130 different pistes – from gentle slopes for beginners right through to Olympic speed racing courses. In addition to downhill skiing, there is also the large La Plagne snowpark, several boardercross courses and a large number of deep snow descents, particularly around the Bellecôte glacier. Those wishing to explore the whole of the Paradiski ski area, including the resort of Les Arcs, will be spoilt for choice with almost 250 downhill runs and a total of 425 kilometres of pistes. And there is even more for winter sports fans to enjoy - another glacier, 8 snowparks and over 150 kilometres of cross country trails.

But whichever pistes holidaymakers coming to Montalbert decide to ski, this small resort at the foot of the La Plagne ski area has everything anyone could need for a perfect skiing experience. Right through to the end of the season it is possible to ski right down into the resort and, with its north-facing slopes surrounded by forest and its numerous snow cannons, skiing conditions here are superb right up to the beginning of spring. You can also ski downhill on one of 2 deep snow trails or on a special piste for those who like to ski at a leisurely pace.

The ski resort also has a practice area and a freestyle zone specially for novice skiers and snowboarders, whilst younger visitors are also well catered for – the crėche looks after children from 18 months to 6 years, the ski kindergarten takes 4-6 year olds and the ski school can cater for children from as young as 3 years old. Fans of cross-country skiing can enjoy over 25 kilometres of trails which start in Montalbert and wind their way through the most stunning countryside.

As well as superb skiing, Plagne Montalbert offers other exciting activities, for example a toboggan run where you can enjoy the chance to ride on an inflatable bobsleigh. Or, for something slightly more sedate, there is a chance to go dog-sledding or join a snowshoe hike around Montalbert before rounding off the day in relaxing style in one of the resort’s cosy restaurants and bars.