Les Contamines is a delightful, traditional resort with stunning views of Mont Blanc, which towers above the village. The resorts north easterly aspect (facing the southern side of Mont Blanc) and its pastureland base means that the prudent management helps keep the slopes in tip top condition even with a modest amount of snow. This makes it the envy of many larger and more famous resorts in the area. Les Contamines also has some excellent off-piste slopes too, and virtually all of the skiing is above 1700m.
Everybody has heard of Mont Blanc...Europe’s tallest peak...and tourists flock to Chamonixand the surrounding towns throughout the year just to be close. Yet nearby Les Contamines-Montjoie, nestled under the Mont Blanc Massif, remains an alpine gem known only to a few: all the advantages of those better known ski resorts with none of the drawbacks.
Les Contamines-Montjoie has an enviable snow record in its micro-climate beneath Mont Blanc. With 44 ski slopes between 1222metres and 2487metres, records show that our village is "snowsure"...a big plus for your winter ski or snowboarding holiday! The 120kms of pistes provide opportunities for all levels of skiers (there are even 2 slopes in the village for beginners) while the modern equipment of the lift network and the 87 snow cannons make your time on the slopes worry-free.
For snow-boarders, there is a half-pipe in the village, masses of powder at altitude including a snow park.
Cross-country skiers will be delighted with the 31kms of well-maintained trails ranging from green to red levels. You can enjoy a floodlit trail each week and a dedicated ‘ski de fond’ centre is located at Les Moranches, on the edge of the village.
Venturing further afield is easy from Les Contamines – the local ski pass is linked to the ski field of Hauteluce. A broader skiing experience is available through the “Evasion Mont Blanc” pass which covers 420kms of pistes and includes the resorts of Les Contamines-Montjoie/Hauteluce, St Nicolas de Vérace, St Gervais, Megeveand Combloux.
Easy day trips can be made to other resorts such as Chamonix, Argentièreand Courmayeur in Italy which will thrill those of you looking for more demanding skiing. For a special day out, any reliable intermediate skier should consider a trip through the Vallée Blanche. In short, a holiday in Les Contamines can ensure variety in your ski experience coupled with a traditional old-world alpine village as your base.
Apres-Ski:
There is a relaxed and friendly ambience throughout the village and the nightlife is limited although there are around 38 shops and 13 restaurants. The bars are very ‘French’ and a couple have live music on some nights of the week. There is also a disco called the Igloo where you can dance until the early hours if the mood takes you. Recommended is the the bar/restaurant Savoisienne -a traditional pretty little place tucked away near the river and the food is fantastic!
Other Activities
Cinema Igloo building Snowshoeing Sports Centre Parapenting Ice Climbing Ice Rink
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