Pelvoux-Vallouise, French Alps

Pelvoux-Vallouise: 5 things to know before you go

French Alps, France πŸ‡«πŸ‡·

Pelvoux and Vallouise are two Hautes-Alpes villages at the gates of the Ecrins National Park, with a modest local ski area and a wall of serious mountains behind. The scene is honest backcountry country, not Serre Chevalier polish. The Pelvoux peak rises to 3,946 m and is one of France's highest summits outside the Mont Blanc range.

1.Is the snow reliable in Pelvoux-Vallouise?

Usually, with help. From 1250 m to 2300 m the resort leans on grooming and snowmaking in lean spells, so check the live report before booking early or late dates (score 74/100).

2.Do you need a car, or can you ski in and out?

This is more of a valley base than a slopeside village, so expect a lift, train or shuttle to the snow each morning. Staying central, near the main lift, saves the most time.

3.How big is the ski area, and who is it for?

It is a compact area, 24 km of piste on 7 lifts, best for a short break or a focused trip rather than a full week. The piste mix leans gentle (8 green, 12 blue, 8 red, 4 black), so beginners and early intermediates are well served.

4.What is the resort like?

Pelvoux-Vallouise stands out for a family-friendly setup.

5.When is the best time to go?

The season usually runs Dec 14 to Apr 7 (about 16 weeks). For the most dependable cover, the deep-winter window of January to February is the safe bet. Conditions soften as spring arrives, so earlier in the window is the safer call.

The full Pelvoux-Vallouise guide

Hotels, piste breakdown, snow month by month, lift and rental info, map and more.

See the full Pelvoux-Vallouise guide β†’

More questions, answered

How much vertical drop does Pelvoux-Vallouise have?
About 1050 m of vertical, from a 1250 m base to 2300 m at the top.
Is Pelvoux-Vallouise part of a larger ski area?
No, it is a self-contained resort with its own 24 km of piste rather than part of a linked domain.
Is Pelvoux-Vallouise good for beginners?
Yes. With 8 green and 12 blue runs, there is plenty of gentle terrain to learn on.

Where to stay

Hotels we like for ski access and value. Prices are indicative; check live availability.

HΓ΄tel Les Vallois
4.3719 reviews
€120
β˜… Top pick

HΓ΄tel Les Vallois

Very good Β· 719 reviews

Why we like it

A long-standing favourite in Pelvoux-Vallouise, trusted by thousands of guests before you.

Guests rate this hotel as very good (4.3/5 from 719 reviews). It sits about 500 m from the slopes. A mid-range option for Pelvoux-Vallouise, with live nightly rates shown for your exact dates so you always see the best price.

β‰ˆ 500 m to the slopesMid-range
From
€120/ night
Check availability β†’
Le Relais du Pelvoux
4.7301 reviews
€145

Le Relais du Pelvoux

Excellent Β· 301 reviews

Why we like it

One of the highest-rated places to stay in Pelvoux-Vallouise, with guests singling out the service and comfort.

β‰ˆ 3.0 km to the slopesMid-range
From
€145/ night
Check availability β†’
La Paille
4.755 reviews
€135

La Paille

Excellent Β· 55 reviews

Why we like it

Strong value for Pelvoux-Vallouise, with a high guest rating that punches above its nightly price.

β‰ˆ 2.6 km to the slopesMid-range
From
€135/ night
Check availability β†’

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Live snow report