These 3 secret spots in Les Menuires will leave you speechless!
Published on 27/03/2025 - Written by Nadège
Situated at an altitude of 1850 m, the Les Menuires ski resort enjoys a privileged location, much appreciated by skiers, snowboarders and, of course, off-piste enthusiasts. If you're planning to spend a few days in the heart of the 3 Vallées, we've got some good recommendations for you.
In this new article, we'll be revealing the names of three exceptional secret spots, which are not usually visited because they're little-known. Fancy discovering some new slopes? Change your perspective on your snowy surroundings? Here are the 3 secret spots to add to your holiday to-do list!
In this new article, we'll be revealing the names of three exceptional secret spots, which are not usually visited because they're little-known. Fancy discovering some new slopes? Change your perspective on your snowy surroundings? Here are the 3 secret spots to add to your holiday to-do list!
The Encombres valley: a wild environment!
First, we'll take you to the Vallée des Encombres, starting at an altitude of 2804m. To reach your destination, simply strap on your skis and board the Pointe de la Masse gondola.
When you arrive, you'll be able to take off on a nice medium gradient with a 1,000 m vertical drop, before continuing for several kilometres towards the village of Le Châtelard.
It's worth noting that the Vallée des Encombres is a long way from the Les Menuires ski area, which means it retains its natural charm throughout the season. The village of Le Châtelard, on the other hand, is fairly close to St Martin de Belleville and its ski lifts. On foot, by taxi... It's up to you how you get back to Les Menuires after your descent!
When you arrive, you'll be able to take off on a nice medium gradient with a 1,000 m vertical drop, before continuing for several kilometres towards the village of Le Châtelard.
It's worth noting that the Vallée des Encombres is a long way from the Les Menuires ski area, which means it retains its natural charm throughout the season. The village of Le Châtelard, on the other hand, is fairly close to St Martin de Belleville and its ski lifts. On foot, by taxi... It's up to you how you get back to Les Menuires after your descent!
A breath of fresh air at Les MenuiresNordic activities to discover the areaPointe de Lachemonde: just above Lac du Lou
You can also add Pointe de Lachemonde to your skiing programme. This other secret spot is situated at an altitude of 2,709 m, above the superb Lac du Lou, a popular summer destination for hikers.
To get to the starting point, it's best to leave from the gondola, taking care to avoid the main valley and simply follow the ridge. Note: you have to walk to reach the pass, so you'll need to be in good physical condition.
This lovely route, which is best explored early in the morning, will take you straight to Lac de Lou. There's even a cosy refuge where you can take a break (restaurant, etc.).
To get to the starting point, it's best to leave from the gondola, taking care to avoid the main valley and simply follow the ridge. Note: you have to walk to reach the pass, so you'll need to be in good physical condition.
This lovely route, which is best explored early in the morning, will take you straight to Lac de Lou. There's even a cosy refuge where you can take a break (restaurant, etc.).
The Lac Noir: a black piste for thrills and spills!
Finally, you can also choose to explore the area around Lac Noir, also in the Masse sector of Les Menuires. This third secret spot alternates between slopes and small flats, which are great for skiing, especially for freeride enthusiasts.
Around the Lac Noir piste are rocky valleys, while the snow remains fresh throughout the day here (north-east facing). Uncrowded, authentic and wild, this route has it all. It's the perfect way to enjoy a serene mountain getaway!
Please note that this is a demanding run and that only the most experienced skiers should venture down it. Other skiers can opt for the Bouquetin, next door.
Around the Lac Noir piste are rocky valleys, while the snow remains fresh throughout the day here (north-east facing). Uncrowded, authentic and wild, this route has it all. It's the perfect way to enjoy a serene mountain getaway!
Please note that this is a demanding run and that only the most experienced skiers should venture down it. Other skiers can opt for the Bouquetin, next door.
Escape to new horizonsOur instructors will guide you through the most beautiful secret spots in Les Menuires