Off-piste Skiing In Les Menuires: The Best Routes to Follow

Although it is renowned as a perfect destination for beginners and intermediates, skiing in Les Menuires can also be a surprisingly fun affair for those with more advanced skills. Thanks to a number of excellent off-piste itineraries, as an experienced skier you will be able to glide down smooth, silky snow amidst simply stunning landscapes.

Where Are the Best Off-Piste Routes?

Most of Les Menuires’ superb off-piste sections can be found in the La Masse sector, situated on the western edge of the resort. Off-piste terrain in La Masse runs down into Orelle and some areas of the Maurienne Valley. The latter is beloved by veteran skiers as it is often considered to be the best of both worlds: it boasts the snow of the northern Alps together with the bright sun of the southern Alps—plus it is far-removed from the madding crowds of other nearby resorts! There are a few routes you can follow to reach the Maurienne Valley and you should make your choice according to your skill and endurance levels.

In eastern La Masse, you can find the gorgeous Vallon du Lou, which is perfect for off-piste skiing in Les Menuires and can be easily accessed from the top of the Boismint chairlift, as well as the famous Cime de Caron lift in Val Thorens. Both itineraries offer completely different views and are worth a half-day, or even a whole day trip, to take in the breathtaking scenery.

Are There Any Other Lesser-Known Gems Hiding in Les Menuires?

Of course! This resort is also home to the striking Vallée des Encombres, with its picturesque panoramic views. Some off-piste skiers avoid this itinerary, as it runs alongside the Fred Covili red piste for a small part of its journey. However, if you are skiing in Les Menuires with someone who has not ventured off-piste before, this very fact can provide the security and comfort of knowing there is a safe-space nearby if needed.

The route diverts from the Fred Covili red piste when it reaches the giant wooden Bouquetin. Your aim then becomes the village of Le Chatelard, below Saint Martin de Belleville, where a magnificent backcountry area appears. Le Chatelard is only a half-day’s journey away from the starting point of La Masse for most off-piste skiers, which means a lunch break in one of its delightful restaurants, such as La Ferme Auberge de Canacoucou, will prove a well-deserved break.

These Sound Wonderful - Is There Anything Else I Should Know?

Whether you're a first-time off-piste adventurer or a seasoned explorer, always make sure to check the avalanche warning when straying from the resort’s pistes. Hiring a mountain guide to help escort you in unexpected circumstances, such as lessened visibility or snowfall, will definitely make your experience of off-piste skiing in Les Menuires safer.

Get your gear ready and double-check your map: the wonderful snowy valleys of the Alps await!

Belinda Smythson works for Ski Amis, a specialist ski travel agency and booking service offering bonded ski holidays. When it comes to skiing in Les Menuires and elsewhere in the French Alps, we can assist with excellent catered or self catered chalets. For a luxury or good-value break and the best catered chalets call Ski Amis.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.