Val Cenis: 125km of north-facing slopes in Haute Maurienne
Haute Maurienne is the eastern extremity of the valley. Beyond it lies Italy. Above Lanslebourg, the Col du Mont Cenis climbs to 2083 metres and opens onto Piedmont via a road closed in winter. To the left of the pass, on the north-facing slope, lies one of the most discreet ski areas in the French Alps: Val Cenis, a grouping of four villages connected by ski runs.
Val Cenis is not a purpose-built resort at altitude. It is a hamlet-based station, composed of Termignon (1300m), Lanslebourg (1400m), Lanslevillard and Val Cenis Le Haut (1500m), linked by ski-in, ski-out connections. Each village retains its own character, shops and church.
125 kilometres north-facing
The domain totals 125 kilometres of marked runs and 29 mechanical lifts. The defining geographical characteristic is exposure: the runs are almost all north-facing, allowing snow to persist throughout the season, even in March, April. The domain sits between 1300 and 2800 metres altitude, with a skiable vertical drop of 1400 metres between the summit of the Met chairlift and the return to Lanslebourg, one of the longest continuous descents in the French Alps.
The run distribution caters to all levels: 16 green, 19 blue, 22 red, 5 black. The terrain particularly suits families, intermediate skiers and those drawn to long descents. La Canopée des Cimes, a panoramic platform installed at the domain’s highest point at 2800 metres, offers a 360-degree view over the Vanoise massif.
Four villages, four entry points
The hamlet-based organisation is one of the elements that sets Val Cenis apart from most Savoyard resorts. A skier may begin their day in Lanslebourg, move towards Lanslevillard, lunch at Val Cenis Le Haut and finish at Termignon, all whilst remaining in ski boots.
Each village has its own character. Lanslebourg is the most historic: shops, ski schools, traditional hotels. Lanslevillard is quieter, with its baroque church and stone chalets. Val Cenis Le Haut is the newest section, designed for ski-in, ski-out living. Termignon, at the far end of the domain, provides access to the Col du Mont Cenis plateau and cross-country skiing areas.
Signature runs
The Vieille Route Royale route, one of the domain’s long descents, follows old routes of the former Napoleon road to Italy. The run, blue-marked, passes through varied settings: woodland, clearings, views down to Lac du Mont Cenis. For advanced skiers, the Solert black run and the wall beneath the Lac chairlift number among the most demanding descents.
The Mont Cenis sector, accessible by the chairlift of the same name, also offers extensive backcountry terrain (with guide or instructor) particularly in early season.
When to visit
The season runs from mid-December to mid-April. The north-facing aspect and altitude ensure stable snow until late season. For quietness, aim for January outside school holidays or the final week of March. February school holidays see steady crowds but without congestion, the four-village structure dispersing visitor numbers.
Planning a stay at Val Cenis
AEC Collection selects and represents chalets and apartments at Val Cenis and throughout the Maurienne valley. Lift passes, ski schools and restaurants may be booked directly with local providers or through the tourist office.
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