Les Contamines has always had a reputation for reliability of snow and snow conditions, which are the envy of many of the larger resorts nearby. Combined with the skiing from 1100 to 2487m we belive that there is something here for everyone.

The main ski area is reached by two gondolas from the valley – Telecabine du Lay and Telecabine de la Gorge.  They meet at a halfway station (Etape) where a further gondola takes you to Signal at 1900m.

The ski school meets at either Etape or Signal – depending on the time of the season – where there are green slopes for beginners to learn and practice on.

Linking over to the Hauteluce ski area in Beaufortain means that there is a plentiful supply of blue, green and black runs to keep all levels of skiers happy making it ideal for family and mixed ability groups.

The off-piste skiing in the resort is amongst the best in the Alps with endless options.  It is said that it never gets skied out.  To be safe and to find the best powder we always recommend that clients take a guide when skiing off-piste.

Cross Country Skiing
The Nordic Park opens when the first snows arrive.  Set in an enchanting area at the end of the valley, in a typical mountain environment at the foot of the Domes de Miage.  The cross country routes take you through forests, clearings and across mountain streams.  You will end up at the beautiful Notre Dame de la Gorge church.

More peaceful and relaxing than downhill skiing, ESF runs courses combining cross country skiing with walking on rackets.

The Nordic park also has 2 sledging runs for children and 3kms of easy level walking.  There are also 3 restaurants.

Ski School
Ecole de Ski Francaise (ESF) is the main ski school in the village.  We have built up a good relationship with them and can secure the best English speaking instructors for our clients.  The week long group courses start on a Sunday but because we operate a Sunday changeover our clients start on Monday and pay a slightly reduced weekly rate. Private instruction and guiding can be arranged prior to your arrival.

Bureau des Guides
Provide magic moments in the wild and wonderful mountains, including day trips to the Vallee Blanche, off-piste skiing, ski touring, ice climbing and winter mountaineering.  Ski Touring trips are organised around Les Contamines or further afield to the Argentiere glacier or even to Zermatt.

Non Skiing Activities

Les Contamines is a fantastic place for non skiers.  The village charm will work its magic on all those who venture up the secret valley which leads to this Alpine Gem.

Weekly Market
There is a weekly market each Tuesday morning in Les Contamines and each Thursday in nearby St Gervais.

Dog Sledding
Learn all about husky driving and ride in a real Greenland Inuit dog sled.  Bruno Stritmatter has 20 years’ experience under his belt and his enthusiasm for his sport and his dogs is infectious.  Night time dog sledding available.

The Colombaz Team
Discover the scenery of Mont Blanc to the sound of sleigh bells.  Horse carriage rides in the village.  Uphill sleigh ride to Colombaz, a mountain refuge, including breakfast or a snack.

Horse Drawn Carriages
As well as Colombaz it is possible to take a horse drawn sleigh or carriage ride around the village.

The Nature Reserve
The Contamines nature reserve represents 5,500 hectares of land leading from the village to 3900m of altitude. Forest, high mountain pasture, mountain stream, rocks, snow and glacier mix together to offer a haven for local flora and fauna.  Guided walks are organised by the Bureau des Guides throughout the winter.

La Maison de la Reserve Naturelle is located in the village centre and offers information and talks concerning the Reserve.  On Tuesdays and Thursdays they provide a workshop for children over the age of 3.

Miage Aventure
The adrenalin activities are provided by Miage Aventure, heli skiing into Italy and tandem paragliding.

The Bureau des Guides