Everything you need for your Serre Chevalier ski holiday.
11th May, 2025
5 min read time
Often hailed as the hidden gem of the southern French Alps, Serre Chevalier beckons travellers with its harmonious blend of laid-back ambiance, welcoming locals, and tantalising cuisine. Spanning four picturesque villages nestled within a national park, the resort offers 250 km (155 mi) of diverse and high-quality ski runs, providing an unparalleled experience for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. As one of the most captivating ski resorts in France, Serre Chevalier is perfect for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.
We've created this guide to make planning your Serre Chevalier ski holiday easy. You'll find everything you need to know, from its location to its ski areas, snow history, and the best places to grab a bite, enjoy a drink, or unwind with family and friends after a day on the slopes. At the end, you'll also find downloadable resort maps, along with some handy contact numbers and links.
Serre Chevalier is situated in the Hautes-Alpes department, within the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region of southeastern France, close to the Italian border.
Nearest airport
Turin-Caselle: 136 km (84.5 mi)
Transfer time
Turin-Caselle: 2hr 30
Serre Chevalier the resort
Resort altitude: 1,350 m (4,429 ft)
Resort permanent residents: ~10,000
Serre Chevalier Vallée Briançon, encompassing four distinctive villages including Villeneuve and Le Villard Laté, offers a captivating blend of alpine charm and authentic French atmosphere. As you wander through its narrow, cobbled streets, you'll discover quaint shops and a genuine sense of traditional mountain life. Each village in the area contributes to the overall character of Serre Chevalier, creating a diverse yet cohesive experience. A standout in the region is the town of Briançon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the highest town in France. Known for its 17th century fortifications, Briançon is not only steeped in rich history but also plays a significant role in the evolution of skiing. Its historic ambiance is palpable, adding a unique cultural dimension to the ski resort experience. Serre Chevalier as a whole is marked by a relaxed and welcoming vibe, with a harmonious blend of rustic charm and modern amenities. Its architecture spans from traditional wooden chalets to historic buildings, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Southern Alps. While the area is lively during the ski season, it retains a peaceful charm that makes it an appealing destination year-round.
Pros
Cons
Expansive mountain terrain suitable for everyone
Main resort towns often have congested roads
Excellent selection of slopes lined with trees
Several lifts remain slow
Good value resort
Links between high-altitude areas might shut down during poor weather conditions
Here is how Serre Chevalier looks like
This short video provides a glimpse of everything Serre Chevalier has to offer.
Serre Chevalier is a high-altitude playground, ranging from 1,200 m (3,937 ft) to 2,800 m (9,186 ft), boasting 250 km (155 mi) of pistes, including 23 green, 28 blue, 37 red, and 16 black runs. All efficiently connected by 77 ski lifts, providing easy access to the area's distinct sectors, such as:
Briançon: ideal for beginners and families, with its accessible slopes connected by the Prorel gondola.
Chantemerle (Serre Chevalier 1350): caters to all skill levels and is a favorite for off-piste adventures.
Villeneuve (Serre Chevalier 1400): the central hub with a variety of pistes, including picturesque tree-lined runs.
Le Monêtier (Serre Chevalier 1500): known for its tranquil skiing experience, with a mix of forest pistes and open powder fields.
Skiing in Serre Chevalier
Beginners
Most villages have easily accessible trails, and the upper mountain boasts isolated beginner slopes, often free from bustling crowds.
Intermediates
This ski area is an intermediate's paradise with numerous pistes, such as the Cucumelle, Le Petit Alpe, Grand Gargouille, and Bois des Coqs, winding their way down through lush larch forests.
Advanced
Apart from the adrenaline-pumping Olympic Luc Alphand run, expert skiers can challenge themselves on the daunting Jacksons, Tête de Grand Pré, or Montagnolle descents.
Off-piste
Recognized for its exceptional off-piste skiing, the resort is surrounded by pristine fields and forests. The areas off the Cibouit chair lift in Monêtier are particularly recommended for fresh tracks.
Snowboarding
Snowboarders find a haven in Serre Chevalier. Besides the natural cliffs and powder pockets among the trees, there's a dedicated freestyle zone near Villeneuve and a boardercross zone in Chantemerle.
Serre Chevalier ski season dates
The ski season in Serre Chevalier typically runs from early December to mid April. While the official 2025/26 opening and closing dates have not yet been confirmed, we’ll update this page as soon as they are announced. Please note that these dates can vary depending on snow conditions and other operational factors. Planning ahead? Don’t forget to check out our Serre Chevalier ski deals for the best ski offers available.
Serre Chevalier snow history
Serre Chevalier offers optimal snow conditions from December through April, each month presenting unique opportunities for skiers. December and January consistently bring about 25 cm (9.8 in) and 22 cm (8.6 in) of snow respectively, dispersed across roughly 2.8 days each week, ensuring regular fresh snow. February's snowfall slightly decreases to 21 cm (8.2 in) but occurs more frequently, averaging 3.1 days per week. The pinnacle of snowfall arrives in the first week of March, traditionally the snowiest week in Serre Chevalier, with an impressive 37 cm (14.5 in) of snow over 3.7 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 12 cm (4.7 in) of snow over 2.6 days, perfect for softer snow under brighter skies.
Chalet de Pra Long (Briançon): this cozy chalet offers an authentic mountain dining experience, showcasing local specialties and a heartwarming ambiance that complements the panoramic views.
Chalet de Serre Blanc (Briançon): the menu boasts a mix of traditional dishes and innovative culinary delights. Its wooden interiors and warm hearths provide a welcoming environment, making it a perfect pit stop for skiers.
Le Grand Alpe 2100 (Chantemerle): it's a must-visit for those seeking a sophisticated dining experience with a view.
Café Soleil (Chantemerle): it's the perfect place to unwind after a morning on the slopes, offering a variety of beverages and light bites. With its laid-back ambiance and sun-kissed terrace, it's a favoured spot for both skiers and snowboarders to recharge and revel in the mountain sunshine.
Au Plaisir Ambré (Briançon): known for its elegant ambiance, this eatery boasts a menu that celebrates both local delicacies and contemporary flavors.
Le Pêché Gourmand (Briançon): A gem in Briançon's culinary scene, it takes pride in its innovative dishes, artfully combining traditional flavors with modern twists.
Le Loup Blanc (Chantemerle): its rustic charm, combined with a menu rich in alpine specialties, makes it a beloved stop for skiers and locals alike.
Things to do in Serre Chevalier
Cinema
Ice hockey matches
Indoor ice skating
Floodlit skiing
Ice driving
Ice skating
Paragliding
Torchlit descent
Leisure centre
Swimming pool with spa
Serre Chevalier après-ski and nightlife
Bar de l'Alpen: with its alpine-inspired interiors and an eclectic mix of live music, it’s the go-to place for those looking to unwind after a long day on the slopes.
Bar 1420: with its chic décor and a sophisticated drink menu, it caters to those seeking a more refined evening.
Le Coccoon: it's the place to be if you're looking to escape the typical après ski crowd and indulge in a more tranquil setting.
Le Chazelay: from local brews to live performances, there’s always something happening.
La Grotte: it offers a unique cave-like ambiance, making it one of the most distinctive bars in the area.
