Nestled between the giants of Courchevel and Pralognan, the Avals Valley promises an unfiltered immersion in the heart of the high mountains. Here, there is no trace of urban tumult, only the scent of mountain pastures, the magic of alpine lakes, and a preserved nature where tranquility reigns. Forget the crowds: it is in this discreet haven of Savoie that an authentic experience unfolds, combining panoramic adventures, sporty escapades, and local delicacies that revive the spirit.
Tucked between the major ski resorts of Courchevel and Pralognan, the Avals Valley offers an exceptional playground for all lovers of wild nature. Far from urban chaos and crowds, it invites discovery into an authentic mountain environment, punctuated by grand landscapes and a sense of being at the end of the world. Whether one prefers family outings, sporty exploration, a tasty break in a mountain hut, or new experiences like via ferrata or electric mountain biking, this secret valley unfolds a thousand and one riches to savor in both summer and winter.
The Avals Valley, a nature refuge between pastures and high mountains
Situated at the gateway to the legendary Vanoise National Park and guarded by the peaks of Mont Charvet, the Avals Valley unfolds as a spectacular incision between flowering pastures, deep forests, and alpine lakes. Although it borders the chic roads of Courchevel and the vast area of the 3 Valleys, this valley retains an intact soul and offers a rare face of Savoie: between silence, radiant flora, and discreet fauna.
The lower part of the valley is the realm of the famous Tarine cow, which grazes peacefully and provides silky milk for the making of the prestigious Beaufort cheese. Higher up, glimpses of the playful marmot or the majestic flight of the golden eagle can sometimes be caught, in a natural symphony that seems as distant as it is precious. Hiking enthusiasts will find happiness here among routes as varied as the landscapes: whether a family stroll or a sporting challenge, everyone will find satisfaction.
Summer and winter, a tranquil exploration land
In winter, the valley attracts daring skiers, enthusiasts of off-piste and untouched spaces. But as soon as the snow melts, a unique tranquility sets in, enveloping paths and peaks in a revitalizing calm. For hikers, the classic Poux waterfall offers a family excursion (1h45, 230 m elevation gain), while the adventurous route of the Petit Mont Blanc (9h30, 1300 m elevation gain) promises breathtaking panoramas of glaciers and the giants of Vanoise.
Those who love to stray from the beaten path will appreciate the alternatives, such as an exploration of the Silicon Valley or a safari in Tanzania, all of which are escapes to be discovered later.
Discovering the valley differently: electric mountain biking and via ferrata
Traversing forgotten trails on electric mountain bikes
To add a touch of originality to the discovery, it is possible to embark on a 23-kilometer loop on an electric mountain bike from the Belvedere located at Courchevel Moriond. The trail first winds through the well-known slopes of the resort before plunging towards the wild Col de la Platta, at 2407 meters altitude. Not only is the route physically accessible, but it also allows for a stop at the charming Plan refuge for a tasty break, before reconnecting with the wild nature of the valley.
Getting started with verticality at the Rosière via ferrata
Right at the entrance to the valley, the Rosière via ferrata overlooks the turquoise waters of the eponymous lake. It is the perfect spot for an initiation or a family activity, with a secured route equipped with cables and ladders, and guaranteed thrills while crossing two Nepalese bridges and a 65-meter aerial footbridge. From above, the plunging view of the lake offers a memorable reward to all the brave seekers.
Attention to enthusiasts: equip yourself with the necessary gear or be accompanied by a professional, especially with children, to ensure an experience that is as safe as it is spectacular. For the more daring, why not imagine yourself as a tree-top pirate, daring the void with flair?
Gourmet pleasures and starry nights at the Lacs Merlet refuge
When talking about authenticity, one cannot fail to mention the Lacs Merlet refuge, perched at 2417 meters in the heart of the Vanoise park. A true haven for hikers, the refuge offers the possibility to spend the night in a grandiose setting, where the silence is only disturbed by the marmots and the whisper of the wind.
Food lovers will be delighted by the midday menu, served from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., where the three cheese fondue, sweet potato tartiflette, or polenta egg promise a feast after the effort. Workshops are offered, from yoga every Saturday in summer to watercolor courses, to combine mountains and the sweetness of life.
Practical information: access and tips for a successful immersion
Accessing the Avals Valley is not a puzzle, quite the opposite. By train, just reach the Moûtiers station (only 16 km away). The A430 motorway takes drivers on the road to escape, while air travelers can land in Geneva or Lyon before heading to the mountains.
To organize your exploration, the Courchevel Moriond welcome office offers all the useful information (telephone: 04 79 08 03 29). Don’t forget to book for the refuge, and remember to adjust your equipment according to the season and your experience.
