Top-notch skiing

At nearly 1,500 m in altitude, the well named “high plateau” welcomes almost three metres of snow on average each year. From the gondola heading towards Cry d’Er (2,256 m), the white quickly spreads in sumptuous knolls, cut here and there by deep vales that are a skier’s delight. Therein lies the beating heart of the resort, complete with its red-carpet piste: the Nationale, graced by many World Cup races both past and present (notably women’s), also known as “the most beautiful men’s Super-G run” according to Swiss downhill skier and Olympic medallist Bernhard Russi. This highly technical and demanding track features about 4 km of often perfect snow and will play host to the FIS Alpine World Ski Championships 2027.

At the foot of the lifts lies the Snowpark, which accommodates both beginners and top dogs with rails, jumps, boxes, one of the biggest Alpine halfpipes, and artificial snow (if needed). And if you’re looking to photograph freestylers in action, nothing beats the Cry d’Er Club d’Altitude’s XXL terrace, where you can soak in the sun and the panoramic views.

To refuel, don’t miss Chetzeron, just 10 minutes away on skis, which boasts a view of the Matterhorn in all its glory from the other side of the Rhône Valley. This extraordinary luxury hotel was built inside the former cable car station, from which another epic piste awaits: the black diamond Chetseron, which is never groomed and which some descend in bathing suits! There are also some family-

friendly options near the centrally located Arnouva, which features a large snow garden, beginner ski classes, and electric snow scooters.

On the upslope side, the white hillsides of Bella Lui (2,543 m) and Plaine Morte (2,927 m) beckon. You can get to Plaine Morte by taking the Funitel from Violettes. The glacial air in the cable car indicates what’s in store: very, very high-altitude mountains and one of the biggest glacial plains in the Alps, spanning 7 km2 and guarded over by the summits of Wildstrubel. You’ll feel like you’re in the Far North with cross-country skiing, snow shoeing, and dog sledding without a tree on the horizon and a wind-frozen nose. Up there you’ll also find the black diamond Kandahar, which follows the ridge then goes directly to Mont Bonvin (2,995 m). Some skiers opt for La Toula, which is never groomed and has a savage reputation for its steep slopes and bump fields that cross from the shadows into sunlight.

And let’s not forget about Aminona, which has few crowds and a lot of charm. Swerving to the East, in the shadow of Petit Mont Bonvin, this sector has only a handful of pistes above the delightful Alpine hamlet of Colombire (where you will cross paths with those who ascend on snowshoes). If you’re looking for snow-covered mayen rooftops, Michelin Man-

esque pine trees, ski touring, or forest runs, you’ll feel right at home here. And if you feel so inclined to trade your skis for blades, the sledge run to the station is simply breathtaking.

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