Chamrousse is a picturesque French ski resort famed for its diverse terrain, spectacular Alpine vistas, and rich Olympic legacy. Spread across three areas, the resort delivers an exceptional blend of authentic Alpine charm and modern convenience. With tree-lined slopes, picturesque architecture, and a welcoming village atmosphere, Chamrousse offers an ideal backdrop for both adrenaline-fuelled adventures and relaxing family holidays.
Whether you're in search of world-class pistes, family-friendly activities, or simply want to soak up stunning views across the French Alps, this guide covers everything you need to plan your perfect Chamrousse ski holiday, from essential skiing information to dining recommendations and après-ski hotspots.
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Chamrousse is situated in the Belledonne mountain range in southeast France, just 30 km (19 miles) from Grenoble.
Nearest airport
Transfer time
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Varied terrain catering to all ski levels | Limited nightlife compared to larger French resorts |
| Excellent for families and beginners | Snow conditions can vary due to moderate altitude |
| Historic Olympic ski runs | Can become crowded on peak weekends |
| Easy access from Grenoble | Limited off-piste opportunities |
This short video provides a glimpse of everything Chamrousse has to offer.
(Ref: emotion3609)
Chamrousse offers 90 km (56 miles) of diverse pistes served by 15 ski lifts, stretching from 1,400 m (4,593 ft) at Casserousse up to 2,250 m (7,382 ft) at Croix de Chamrousse. The resort caters equally to beginners, intermediates, and experienced skiers. The ski area is divided into three zones:
Chamrousse also offers extensive night skiing opportunities, with floodlit slopes adding extra appeal on selected evenings throughout the season.
Chamrousse 1700 provides gentle green slopes and beginner-friendly facilities, making it the ideal spot for first-time skiers and families with children. A dedicated mini-domain and wide, forgiving runs ensure a relaxed and safe learning environment. Chamrousse 1750 further supports progression with numerous approachable blue slopes.
Intermediate skiers will find their perfect playground at Chamrousse 1750, enjoying a great selection of blue runs and confidence-building terrain. The slopes above Roche Béranger provide enjoyable cruising with panoramic views, ideal for improving skills or leisurely skiing.
Chamrousse 1650 (Recoin) delivers the greatest challenge, with iconic Olympic pistes like "Olympique Hommes" and "Olympique Dames". Expert skiers relish the steep, technical runs from Croix de Chamrousse (2,250 m / 7,382 ft), descending towards Casserousse through demanding terrain.
Sunset Park at Chamrousse 1750 is the snowboarder's highlight, offering well-designed jumps, rails, and boxes catering to all freestyle levels. Beginners can learn safely, while seasoned riders appreciate advanced features and a dedicated shred line.
The ski season in Chamrousse for 2025/26 is scheduled to run from 6 December to 5 April. These dates are provided by the resort and may be subject to change depending on snow conditions and other operational factors.
Chamrousse offers optimal snow conditions from December through April, each month presenting unique opportunities for skiers. December and January consistently bring about 31 cm (12.2 in) and 25 cm (9.8 in) of snow respectively, dispersed across roughly 2.8 days each week, ensuring regular fresh snow. February's snowfall slightly decreases to 22 cm (8.6 in) but occurring across 2.9 days per week. The pinnacle of snowfall arrives in the second week of December, traditionally the snowiest week in Chamrousse, with an impressive 39 cm (15.3 in) of snow over 3.0 days, making it a paradise for those who cherish Bluebird Powder Days, when sunshine and light winds follow fresh snowfall. The season stretches into April with enjoyable conditions, accumulating 13 cm (5.1 in) of snow over 2.0 days, perfect for softer snow under brighter skies.
| Month | Snow amount (week) | Snow days (week) |
|---|---|---|
| December | 31 cm/12.20 in | 2.8 days |
| January | 25 cm/9.84 in | 2.9 days |
| February | 22 cm/8.66 in | 2.9 days |
| March | 22 cm/8.66 in | 2.9 days |
| April | 13 cm/5.11 in | 2.0 days |
(Ref: snow-forecast.com)
Chamrousse boasts an inviting culinary scene, featuring everything from cosy mountain huts to vibrant village eateries. Highlights include:
Après-ski in Chamrousse is laid-back yet lively, with a selection of welcoming bars and pubs dotted throughout the resort. While quieter than larger Alpine resorts, there’s still a vibrant atmosphere to enjoy, particularly at weekends and during peak holiday periods.
Download Chamrousse resort map here
