Grottes des Glaces
In the Chiaupe glacier at the top of Bellecôte (3,417m), an ice cave has been dug every winter since 2005.
Hiking routes in La Plagne and the Paradiski
Head out on the mountain and explore the mountains and take in the picturesque views
With a range of challenging and easier hiking routes in La Plagne you can really get out amongst nature whatever your level.
There are various mountain guides who will lead you on your hike or you can choose to tackle the trail or route on your own but just make sure you are fully equipped, prepared and have all the full details before setting off.
Below are a couple of suggested hiking routes in La Plagne. There are many more to choose from so head to our maps page for lift maps or pick up a guide or map from a shop or information point to explore some of the other routes.
Hike 1 - Presset lake and refuge
Starting point: St Guerin chapel car park
Distance: 14km
Set off from the car park and follow signs to Refuge de la Balme.
Once there take the path to the left in the direction of Refuge de Presset and the lake. The elevation gain is 900m, and you can take your dog with you as animals are permitted here.
There is the possibility of continuing to Col du Grand Fond, which offers and additional 100m elevation gain.
You can then return via the same route back to the car park.
This route is rated as red (hard), so is for experienced hikers only.
Hike 2 - Glacier trail
Starting point: Laisonnay car park
Distance: 15km
Duration: 4h
From the car park take the road for about 300m, and after the bridge turn left onto the track which then goes right towards the Glière refuge (1,996m).
From the refuge, retrace your steps to get back on the track that climbs to the chapel and the lake, on the left a fairly steep path rises up to join the track higher up.
You will quickly reach the Plagne mountain pasture, passing below the Plan du Sel chalet where the mountain Beaufort cheese is made, the 'Prince of Gruyeres', with a registered designation of origin.
Continue up the path that crosses under the Grand Plan chalet, the path continues to rise slowly up the Combe du Grand Plan (East) and goes straight under the Col de la Croix des Frêtes.
This route is level blue, so it's suitable for beginners and hiking novices.
With an elevation gain of 810m, the route is considered suitable for families hiking with children.
What to see
Sights in La Plagne
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Archaeological Museum
The exhibits in this museum range from the Neolithic all the way to the present day.
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Vanoise National Park
The Vanoise National Park is one of the highlights of the Tarentaise region.
Where to lunch
Restaurants in Plagne Centre
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Le ChairLift Restaurant
A great spot for a lunchtime stop during your day out on the mountain, serving international as well as local Savoyarde cuisine.
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Araucaria Restaurant
This delightful hotel restaurant serves creative cuisine, blending French gastronomy and Savoyard tradition.
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La Metairie Restaurant
A chalet-style traditional Alpine restaurant.
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Le 4810 Restaurant
Open for lunch and dinner serving pizzas and local specialities.
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Le Petit Chaperon Rouge Restaurant
This traditionally French chalet-style restaurant serves reasonably priced local dishes.
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Le Baryon Restaurant
Cosy farmhouse style restaurant serving local Savoyard specialities such as cheese fondue, raclette and charcuterie at a reasonable price.
What to do
Things To Do in Plagne Centre
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Snowshoeing
Leave your skis and snowboard behind and go off the beaten track on snowshoes!
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Moonbike adventures
Feel the need… the need for speed? These electric snow bikes are three times lighter than a snowmobile, whisper-quiet and seriously powerful - a ride you won’t want to miss.
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Taxi Ski Service
State-of-the-art Taxi Ski chair makes the slopes accessible to everyone
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Les Ecrins cinema
Open daily from June to September and throughout the winter season months.
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Salle Omnisports, Plagne Centre
Situated in the heart of Plagne Centre, near the shops, just steps from one of the free shuttle stops, its location makes it particularly easy to access regardless of where you are staying.
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Aeroplagne
Take to the skies above La Plagne with a wing above your head. But don't worry...you don't need any experience, as a tandem flight is the best way to try this sport for the first time!
