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.
Let's get started!
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.
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This short video provides a glimpse of everything Serre Chevalier has to offer.
(Ref: Serre Chevalier Briançon)
Most villages have easily accessible trails, and the upper mountain boasts isolated beginner slopes, often free from bustling crowds.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
| Month | Snow amount (week) | Snow days (week) |
|---|---|---|
| December | 25 cm | 2.8 days |
| January | 22 cm | 2.8 days |
| February | 21 cm | 3.1 days |
| March | 22 cm | 3.2 days |
| April | 12 cm | 2.6 days |
(Ref: snow-forecast.com)
A vibrant hotspot in Serre Chevalier, Bar de l'Alpen is known for its lively atmosphere and great selection of drinks. 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.
Elevate your après ski experience at Bar 1420. With its chic décor and a sophisticated drink menu, it caters to those seeking a more refined evening. Its panoramic views of the mountains make it an ideal spot to relax and recount the day's adventures.
Le Coccoon is the haven for the modern après ski enthusiast. With its contemporary design, chill lounge music, and a curated menu of craft cocktails, it offers a perfect blend of relaxation and sophistication. It's the place to be if you're looking to escape the typical après ski crowd and indulge in a more tranquil setting.
Rich in local character, Le Chazelay is a favorite among both locals and visitors. Its rustic charm, combined with an energetic ambiance, makes it a must-visit. From local brews to live performances, there’s always something happening at Le Chazelay, ensuring that the fun doesn't stop once you're off the slopes.
True to its name, La Grotte offers a unique cave-like ambiance, making it one of the most distinctive bars in the area. This underground gem is perfect for those in search of a cozy setting, complete with sumptuous cocktails and an intimate vibe.
Download Saint Chaffrey/Chantemerle resort map here
Download Briançon town map here
Download La Salle les Alpes/Villeneuve resort map here
Download Monêtier les Bains resort map here
