Things to do and see in Winter

Ski, ski, ski!!!

Montagny is perfectly situated to ski a number of resorts and to access a wealth of backcountry skiing.

• Alpine skiing
  • 3 Valleys
  • La Plagne
• Backcountry
  • Les Aval
  • Vanoise

• links

Alpine skiing

3 valleys

Probably the most famous and best resort for downhill skiing in the area is the 3 valleys. Consisting of Courchevel, Meribel and Val Thorens, the 3V's combine to provide over 600klm of groomed, patrolled skiing.

Ski pass costs vary depending on the length of duration and the area you wish to ski. The ski area is split into Courchevel Moriond 1650, Courchevel Valley (includes Moriond), Meribel Valley, Val Thorens Valley and finally the entire 3V's. The cheapest pass is a Courchevel Moriond, 1650 pass.

La Plagne

Longer and gentler runs and only a few hundred kms of skiing, none the less well worth a visit. It is possible to drive there direct, however even though it's just over the back of the hill (@ 3klm away) it'll take around 1 1/4 hours to drive. Much better then to drive up to the small village and resort of Champagny (a fine but small resort - about the size of an Australian resort) and buy a Champagny/La Plagne ski pass. You can then catch the highest lift in Champagny up to the ridge and ski down into La Plagne for the day.

Backcountry

I would strongly recommend before going backcountry that you either take a qualified guide or if you have prior experience, at the least carry the following:

per person;

1. snow shovel
2. avalanche probe
3. avalanche transceiver

per group;

1. ski repair tools
2. duct tape
3. 1st aid
4. map & compass
5. down jacket
6. spare gloves

Les Aval

A huge bowl just over the back of Courchevel 1650. Accessible using a ski pass and possible to ski back into the resort of Courchevel 1650 at the end of the day.

there is also a CAF alpine refuge, the Lac Merlet, with fire wood and a gas stove, blankets, pillows and mattresses all provided. It's an honesty system, just remember to take cash to leave in the letter box.

The Vanoise

Just around the corner from Champagny and at the head of the valley lies the village of Pralognan, this in turn sits at the entrance to the Park National De La Vanoise, a huge park which backs on to the Grande Paridisso in Italy.

There are plenty of alpine refuges here maintained both by the park and the CAF. Again (in most cases) everything is provided, just bring food and cash.

Links

If you have any links or suggestions please don't hesitate to contact me.