Montchavin Ski Resort Guide
Located at an altitude of 1,250m Montchavin is an authentic French village resort which has seen a rapid increase in tourist numbers in recent years. Often paired with its nearest neighbour Les Coches, Montchavin is one of the ten outlying villages that make up the larger La Plagne resort area. In turn La Plagne is part of the huge Paradiski area, and Montchavin now occupies a well-situated central position in one of the largest ski areas in the world.
Montchavin itself is a traditional farming village with the old-fashioned charm of a resort which has kept much of its original structure and buildings. New development has bought additional accommodation and facilities to the village but has not diminished the cosy feel as yet. The resort is best suited to families looking for a safe and friendly atmosphere rather than lively nightlife. While the four restaurants in the area double as bars – Montchavin is definitely better known for its running of a full family-friendly programme of activites.
Montchavin has long been the quiet village resort at the foot of the La Plagne ski area. When the Vanoise Express cable car linking La Plagne and Les Arcs was built Montchavin found itself both in close proximity to this spectacular double-decker lift, and central to the newly formed Paradiski area.
This created a windfall of interest and investment from tour operators and chalet builders much like Peisey-Vallandry and Peisey-Nancroix experienced for the same reasons. Although this interest is still very much still alive, for the most part Montchavin has been able to retain the charming local atmosphere that kept guests coming back year after year.
Although many skiers & snowboarders will pass over Montchavin on their way to the far ends of the Paradiski area, they are actually missing some great local pistes. Sitting just above the village are some fantastic uncrowded forest runs to suit intermediate skiers.
With a friendly, charming atmosphere and a real village feel to it, Montchavin is an ideal resort for those looking for a quiet, family-friendly ski holiday. It also just happens to be perfectly placed in one of the world’s largest connected ski areas too.
